Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has introduced a new points-based scoring system for candidates seeking Canadian permanent residence through its newly launched Ontario Workforce Priority Stream (OWPS). The updated system aims to select high-potential candidates based on their skills, work experience, education, language ability, income, and employment factors.
For skilled professionals, workers, and eligible physicians, this new pathway creates another opportunity to achieve Canadian permanent residence through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Globalwings Visa Consultants helps applicants understand the latest Ontario immigration updates, assess eligibility, and prepare a strong nomination application.
What Is the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream (OWPS)?
The Ontario Workforce Priority Stream is a new immigration pathway introduced under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program as part of Ontario’s 2026 immigration reforms.
The stream is designed to attract skilled foreign workers who can contribute to Ontario’s workforce and address labour shortages across different industries.
Eligible candidates may receive an invitation from OINP and, after obtaining a provincial nomination, can apply to the federal government for Canadian permanent residence.
The OWPS includes three main pathways:
- TEER 0–3 Pathway: For candidates working in higher-skilled occupations.
- TEER 4–5 Pathway: For candidates working in eligible lower-skilled occupations.
- Self-Employed Physicians Pathway: For qualified physicians eligible to practice and bill through Ontario’s healthcare system.
New OINP Ranking System: How Candidates Will Be Scored
Candidates under the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream will be ranked through a scoring system with a maximum score of 130 points. Higher-ranked candidates will receive priority invitations to apply for provincial nomination.
The ranking system evaluates several important factors:
1. Work Location in Ontario
Candidates may receive up to 15 points depending on where they will work in Ontario.
- Northern Ontario – 15 points
- Eastern Ontario – 10 points
- Central Ontario (outside GTA) – 10 points
- Southwestern Ontario – 10 points
- Outside Toronto but within GTA – 5 points
- Toronto – 0 points
Applicants working in regions facing greater labour shortages may receive higher ranking points.
2. Occupation Skill Level
The candidate’s occupation under Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) system also affects their score.
Points are awarded based on TEER categories:
- TEER 0 and TEER 1 occupations – up to 9 points
- TEER 2 and TEER 3 occupations – up to 6 points
- TEER 4 and TEER 5 occupations – no points
Management roles, professional occupations, and skilled trades may receive stronger consideration.
3. Salary and Compensation
Candidates can earn up to 15 points based on their hourly wage:
- $40 or more per hour – 15 points
- $35–$39.99 per hour – 12 points
- $30–$34.99 per hour – 10 points
- $25–$29.99 per hour – 8 points
- $20–$24.99 per hour – 5 points
Higher-paying employment offers can improve a candidate’s ranking.
4. Occupational Demand
OINP also considers the industry category of the applicant’s occupation.
Priority areas include:
- Healthcare occupations – 10 points
- Trades, transportation, and equipment operators – 8 points
- Natural and applied sciences – 6 points
Other occupations may receive fewer points depending on labour market demand.
5. Ontario Work Experience
Candidates with previous Ontario work experience can gain additional points.
For applicants working in their job offer position:
- More than 24 months – 18 points
- 13–24 months – 15 points
- 6–12 months – 12 points
Other Ontario work experience:
- More than 24 months – 12 points
- 13–24 months – 9 points
- 6–12 months – 6 points
Canadian work experience continues to be a valuable factor for immigration applicants.
6. Canadian Income History
Candidates may receive points based on their previous Canadian tax history.
The scoring includes:
- $70,000 or more annual income – 8 points
- $50,000–$69,999 – 6 points
- $30,000–$49,999 – 4 points
Income is verified through the Canada Revenue Agency’s Notice of Assessment.
7. Education Qualification
Education plays an important role in the OWPS ranking system.
Points include:
- Doctorate degree – 10 points
- Medical, dental, veterinary, or optometry degree – 10 points
- Master’s degree – 8 points
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent – 6 points
- College diploma, apprenticeship, or trade certificate – 5 points
Candidates with higher educational qualifications may receive better ranking scores.
8. Canadian Education Credentials
Applicants who completed studies in Canada may receive additional points:
- Two or more eligible Canadian credentials – 10 points
- One eligible Canadian credential – 5 points
Canadian education experience can strengthen an applicant’s immigration profile.
9. Language Ability
English and French language skills are important factors under the new scoring system.
Candidates can receive up to 15 points based on their highest official language ability:
- CLB 9 or higher – 15 points
- CLB 8 – 12 points
- CLB 7 – 8 points
- CLB 6 – 4 points
Applicants demonstrating proficiency in both official languages may receive additional points.
10. Bilingual Language Skills
Candidates with strong English and French abilities can earn:
- Both official languages at CLB 6 or higher – 10 points
- One official language at CLB 6 or higher – 5 points
Bilingual candidates may have an advantage during selection.
11. Temporary Resident Status in Canada
Applicants currently living in Canada may receive additional points:
- Valid work permit – 10 points
- Study permit – 5 points
- No permit – 0 points
Candidates must maintain valid legal status in Canada.
How to Apply Through Ontario Workforce Priority Stream
The application process for OWPS includes the following steps:
- Create an eligible Expression of Interest (EOI) profile in the OINP online system.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from Ontario.
- Submit a complete provincial nomination application.
- Receive an Ontario provincial nomination certificate.
- Apply to the Canadian federal government for permanent residence.
- Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and complete the landing process.
Ontario Immigration Program Overhaul 2026
Ontario has introduced major changes to its provincial immigration system. The province retired previous immigration pathways and started developing new programs focused on labour market requirements.
Along with the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream, Ontario plans to introduce additional pathways, including:
- Priority Healthcare Stream
- Entrepreneur Stream
- Exceptional Talent Stream
These upcoming pathways are expected to create more opportunities for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals, and talented individuals.
Why Choose Globalwings Visa Consultants for Ontario PNP?
Applying for Canadian permanent residence requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and a strong understanding of immigration requirements.
Globalwings Visa Consultants provides professional immigration assistance with:
- 15 years of immigration experience
- Eligibility assessment for Canada PNP programs
- Guidance on OINP profile creation
- Documentation preparation and review
- Application submission support
- Latest immigration updates and expert guidance
Our experienced team helps skilled professionals and families understand their best immigration options and move closer to their Canadian dream.
Start Your Canada PR Journey with Globalwings Visa Consultants
The new Ontario Workforce Priority Stream offers valuable opportunities for skilled workers who meet the eligibility requirements. With the right strategy, candidates can improve their ranking and increase their chances of receiving a provincial nomination.
Contact Globalwings Visa Consultants today for expert guidance on Ontario PNP and Canadian permanent residence pathways.
Call: +91-9355339924
Email: Info@globalwingsimmigrations.com
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