Ontario OINP to Withdraw EOIs and Launch Employer Portal in July 2025 – Major Changes for Immigration Applicants and Employers

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program to Withdraw Expressions of Interest for Three Employer Job Offer Streams

In a significant move to streamline its immigration processes, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has announced major changes affecting its Employer Job Offer streams. These changes, set to take effect in June and July 2025, will impact applicants, employers, and the overall structure of the program.

Central to these updates is the OINP’s decision to automatically withdraw all active Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for three key streams: the Foreign Worker stream, the International Student stream, and the In-Demand Skills stream. This withdrawal will occur on June 21 and 22, 2025, as part of preparations for a new digital Employer Portal, scheduled to launch on July 2, 2025.

Affected Streams and Transition Timeline

The three affected streams are:

• Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream
• Employer Job Offer: International Student stream
• Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills stream

The transition period will be marked by several key dates:

These changes signal a fundamental shift in how the OINP operates, particularly in its Employer Job Offer streams. The program is moving from an applicant-led process to one that is employer-led, streamlining operations and enhancing efficiency.

For more details on these changes, including how they may affect you, visit https://immigration.ca.

Understanding the Impact and Next Steps for OINP Changes

What is Changing in the OINP Process?

The OINP is transitioning from an applicant-led to an employer-led process. This shift means employers will now initiate and manage the registration process through the new Employer Portal, starting July 2, 2025.

Who is Affected by These Changes?

The changes impact three main groups:

• Foreign Worker Stream: Skilled workers with a valid job offer in Ontario.
• International Student Stream: Recent graduates from eligible Ontario institutions with a job offer.
• In-Demand Skills Stream: Workers in specific in-demand occupations, such as construction or agriculture.

Actions Required for Employers and Applicants

For Employers:

• Register on the new Employer Portal starting July 2, 2025.
• Submit employment position details so applicants can re-register their EOI.
• Prepare and upload required supporting documents through the portal.

For Applicants:

• Collaborate with your employer to re-initiate your EOI after July 2, 2025.
• Monitor the OINP website for new instructions on the employer-led system.
• Re-register your EOI within 12 months of the portal launch to remain eligible for OINP draws.

Temporary Freeze and EOI Expiry

During the transition:

• Existing EOIs for the three affected streams will be automatically withdrawn on June 21-22, 2025.
• No new EOIs can be submitted between June 20 and July 2, 2025.
• The entire OINP system will be offline from June 27 to June 29, 2025, for system upgrades.

How the New OINP Employer Portal Works

Key Features:

• Employers initiate the process by registering and submitting employment details.
• Applicants must be matched to an employer’s registration to submit their EOI.
• New EOIs are valid for 12 months, ensuring eligibility for selection draws.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to re-register if my EOI is withdrawn?

Yes. After July 2, work with your employer to submit a new EOI through the Employer Portal within 12 months.

Will my withdrawn EOI count for anything?

No. Withdrawn EOIs will not be considered; all new applications must follow the revised process.

Summary Table of Key Dates and Actions

These changes mark a significant shift in the OINP’s Employer Job Offer streams, emphasizing the importance of proactive engagement from both employers and applicants to navigate the new process effectively.

Conclusion

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program’s transition to an employer-led process marks a significant shift in how immigration opportunities are managed in Ontario. By withdrawing existing Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for the Foreign Worker, International Student, and In-Demand Skills streams, the OINP aims to streamline its processes and improve efficiency. The launch of the new Employer Portal on July 2, 2025, will require proactive engagement from both employers and applicants to navigate the updated system successfully.

While the changes may present challenges, they also offer a more structured approach to immigration through employer job offers. It is crucial for all stakeholders to stay informed and adhere to the new requirements to ensure a smooth transition and maintain eligibility for future OINP draws.

Frequently Asked Questions