Immigration Announcement
Ontario Announces New Immigration Updates and Opportunities
Ontario, a bustling hub of diversity and opportunity, has recently released pivotal updates in its immigration procedures. For prospective immigrants eyeing the Ontario Immigration – OINP, understanding the nuances of these changes is paramount.
1. Mandatory Applicant Consent Form
In a move to streamline processes, Ontario now mandates the inclusion of the ‘Applicant Consent Form’ with all new OINP nomination applications starting February 26, 2024. This form, a prerequisite for a successful application, demands meticulous completion, correct dating, and signatures from the applicant, spouse, and dependents. Failure to adhere to these guidelines leads to application rejection. The province emphasises that this form must be completed post receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) or a Notification of Interest (NOI).
Immigration via Two-Tiered System in Canada
Canada’s immigration allows foreign nationals through a comprehensive two-tier system, providing avenues for permanent residency. This system encompasses the federal Express Entry framework, including the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program, Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program, and Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Additionally, it extends its embrace to the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) of the 10 Canadian provinces.
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Within the Express Entry system, the subsequent profiling involves a meticulous ranking process utilizing the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Those with the highest CRS score, receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
2. Pearson Test of English (PTE) Acceptance
Aligning with federal policy adjustments, Ontario has expanded its horizons by accepting the Core as proof of English proficiency. Effective January 30, 2024, this applies to all OINP streams requiring language proficiency evidence and for EOI points claims. Those who have registered an Expression of Interest (EOI) and undergone the PTE can update their profiles accordingly. This change doesn’t impact applicants with ITAs or NOIs received before January 30, 2024. The equivalency chart between Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) and PTE scores provides clarity on language proficiency standards.
PTE Core score equivalency chart
The table below illustrates the equivalency between the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) and Pearson Test of English (PTE) scores across different proficiency levels.
| CLB Level | Listening | Reading | Speaking | Writing |
| 10 | 89-90 | 88-90 | 89-90 | 90 |
| 9 | 82-88 | 78-87 | 84-88 | 88-89 |
| 8 | 71-81 | 69-77 | 76-83 | 79-87 |
| 7 | 60-70 | 60-68 | 68-75 | 69-78 |
| 6 | 50-59 | 51-59 | 59-67 | 60-68 |
| 5 | 39-49 | 42-50 | 51-58 | 51-59 |
| 4 | 28-38 | 33-41 | 42-50 | 41-50 |
3. Ontario Universities’ International Student Drive
Simultaneously, Ontario universities are making strides to welcome more international students. With a request for 35% of capped study permit applications, equivalent to 82,250 out of 235,000, these institutions aim to maintain a robust representation of international students at around 20% of their overall enrolment. Despite Immigration Minister Marc Miller’s recent limits on study permit applications for 2024, the Council of Ontario Universities (COU) remains steadfast in its pursuit of global talent.
As Ontario refines its immigration processes, staying attuned to these updates becomes a strategic advantage for aspiring immigrants. Whether it’s adhering to new consent requirements or language proficiency advancements, being well-informed enhances one’s journey through Ontario’s immigration system. Explore the latest OINP draws, and policy changes, and step confidently towards making Ontario your new home.
