OINP Basics: Everything You Need To Know To Apply
Canada welcomes people with valuable skills, experience, and education to settle in and contribute to its economy to build a new life here. Other pathways besides the Express Entry system may help you settle more easily in Canada. One of the pathways is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which can be applied for in any of the 11 provinces and territories of Canada. All have their respective requirements and application process.
Ontario is the most populated province in Canada. It accounts for nearly 40% of the population of Canadians. Ontario is the first point of entry for many immigrants. Its PNP, specifically known as the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) allows skilled workers and more experienced immigrants to settle in Ontario by providing them with a route of establishing permanent residency.
What is Ontario's Provincial Nominee Program?
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program was implemented in 2007 and was designed to address job shortages in the province, attract investments, and help new immigrants live and thrive in the province. Initially, the province nominated more than 1,000 people per year, and today, the province nominates over 15,000 annually, reflecting the province's commitment to supporting newcomers.
Ontario’s program has two main pathways: Enhanced Streams and Base Streams.
Enhanced Streams: They are connected with the federal Express Entry system. Based on education, experience, and language skills, there is a score Canada provides to applicants. The applicants with a better score are asked to apply for permanent residency. A nomination by an Enhanced Stream can add 600 points to your score, almost guaranteeing an invitation.
Base Streams: These streams operate outside the Express Entry stream. Candidates apply directly to the Ontario PNP; if nominated, they will then apply to IRCC for permanent residency.
Ontario's PNP Streams
The OINP provides three significant pathways to qualify:
Job Offer Stream: Applicants with a valid job offer from an Ontario employer are covered. The stream is available to applicants in the categories of skilled workers, international students, and temporary workers who are present in Ontario.
Human Capital Stream: Applicants with experience in work, education, and language can apply under this. They should also have profiles in the Express Entry system. There are two streams under this category:
International Graduate Stream: Eligible institutions of Ontario for students who have graduated recently.
The Ontario Express Entry Streams:
French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: This stream is available to applicants who are proficient in French and satisfy both the requirements of the Federal Skilled Worker Program and those of the Canadian Experience Class.
Human Capital Priorities Stream: This stream targets applicants with work experience that has been categorized into specific skills with a high demand in Ontario.
The Skilled Trades Stream: This stream caters to applicants with skilled experience in plumbing, carpentry, and electrical work.
Business Category: For entrepreneurs who want to start or acquire a business in Ontario. This stream is made for those ready to invest and generate employment for the province.
Eligibility
Every stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program has its eligibility criteria. To verify your eligibility, carefully review these criteria. You can get full information about these requirements and other OINP updates on government websites or reliable immigration resources.
How to Apply for Ontario's PNP
Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Once you have identified the category through which you will be making an application, you should check whether your qualifications match all the criteria required before you begin with your application. Your experience, skills, and qualifications have to fulfill Ontario's requirements.
Step 2: Create a Profile
To make an application, you are required to create a profile, which would then be scored through different criteria.
For Express Entry Streams: You can submit your online profile through the IRCC website. Your profile will be evaluated via the Express Entry system.
For the Entrepreneur Stream: Register your interest by email, and they will invite you to apply if of interested. If invited, you will fill out an online application and participate in a mandatory interview.
For Other Streams: Register an expression of interest for that particular stream that you apply for.
Step 3: Apply for Nomination
If you receive an invitation or a notice of interest, apply for a nomination. Use Ontario's e-filing Portal to make your application.
For Express Entry Streams: You have 45 calendar days after receiving your invitation.
For Employer Job Offer and International Student Streams: Apply within 14 calendar days from the time the invitation was issued.
At this stage, you will also be required to pay an application fee. The fees vary anywhere from CAD 1,500 up to CAD 3,500 based on the program you will apply for.
Important: Preparing the online application will take you around two to three hours.
Step 4: Apply for Permanent Residency
Finally, if Ontario approves your application for nomination, you should then file for permanent residency through the IRCC. Though Ontario's nomination improves the chances for you, the final decision lies with the Canadian government.
Also Read:- All About OINP Draw 2024: Important Facts And Dates
Conclusion
The Ontario Provincial Nominee Program is an excellent way for professionals, graduates, and entrepreneurs to set up their lives in Ontario. If you prepare adequately, meet the requirements, and complete the application process correctly, you can easily have your nomination for permanent residency in Canada. Vibrant cities, diverse communities, and numerous opportunities await you on your Canadian journey ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
1. How long will it take to process my application? Application processing times vary, but usually, a few months, depending upon the stream.
2. Is it mandatory to know English or French to apply for OINP? Yes, language is very essential for most of the OINP streams, though, again, the level required would depend on the stream.
3. Do I need to have an employment offer? No, not all streams require a job offer. For example, some streams like those in the Human Capital Category, do not require a job offer.
