Ontario Issues Hundreds of Invitations for Provincial Nomination

In a significant move to address regional labour shortages, Ontario has issued 468 targeted invitations under its Employer Job Offer streams on August 28, 2025. These invitations aim to attract skilled workers to specific regions, particularly Northern Ontario and communities participating in the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) initiative.

This latest draw marks the resumption of such invitations since early June 2025, with a clear focus on strategic immigration to support economic growth in areas facing persistent labour gaps. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has once again demonstrated its commitment to aligning immigration efforts with the province’s economic needs.

Breakdown of the August 28, 2025 Draws

The invitations were distributed across three streams: Foreign Worker, International Student, and In-Demand Skills. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the allocations:

• Foreign Worker Stream (Northern Ontario): 94 invitations issued to candidates with scores of 53 and above.
• Foreign Worker Stream (REDI): 57 invitations issued to candidates with scores of 45 and above.
• International Student Stream (Northern Ontario): 236 invitations issued to candidates with scores of 66 and above.
• International Student Stream (REDI): 56 invitations issued to candidates with scores of 68 and above.
• In-Demand Skills Stream (REDI): 25 invitations issued to candidates with scores of 34 and above.

These targeted draws reflect Ontario’s strategic approach to immigration, prioritizing candidates who can fill critical labour shortages in key sectors and regions.

Focus on Northern Ontario and REDI Communities

Northern Ontario remains a focal point for these draws, with invitations aimed at bolstering economic growth and workforce stability in regions such as Muskoka, Haliburton, Nipissing, Parry Sound, and others. The REDI initiative, launched to support economic development through immigration, also received a significant share of invitations, targeting communities identified as needing additional support for population growth and economic development.

By focusing on these regions, Ontario aims to ensure that immigration efforts are aligned with local economic priorities, creating a balanced approach to population growth and labour market needs.

Key Updates and Process Details for Candidates

Candidates who received invitations in the August 28, 2025, draws must submit their permanent residence applications within 14 calendar days through the OINP e-Filing Portal. Applicants are required to use their new file number, which will now begin with the prefix ‘JOXX’. The previous Expression of Interest (EOI) file number will still appear but is no longer active for the new application.

Recent Program Updates Streamline Application Process

Ontario introduced significant changes to the OINP administration in 2025. As of April 10, 2024, all applications under the Employer Job Offer streams must use the updated Application for Approval of Employment Position (Employer Form). Using an outdated form will result in the application being returned with a refunded fee. Additionally, the province launched the Employer Portal, making the process employer-led. Employers now register business and job details directly, streamlining and increasing the integrity of submissions.

The program also introduced new authority to return applications—before issuing nominations and with full refunds—for reasons such as integrity concerns, limited nomination quotas, or shifting provincial priorities.

Exemption for Early Childhood Educators

Ontario has made it easier for qualified early childhood educators (NOC 42202) by allowing those registered with the College of Early Childhood Educators to be exempt from the minimum education requirement under certain streams.

Process and Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must have a valid job offer from an Ontario employer and meet eligibility criteria for their nominated stream. Employers are responsible for completing the required Employer Form, which is included with the applicant’s submission. The nomination allows foreign nationals to apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Canadian permanent residence.

In-Person Interviews to Enhance Program Integrity

To further ensure the authenticity of applications, Ontario may now require in-person interviews with either employers or candidates. This additional step is part of ongoing efforts to maintain the integrity of the OINP.

Summary of Ontario’s Strategic Immigration Approach

Ontario’s recent draws and program updates reflect a clear commitment to addressing regional labour shortages while maintaining a secure and responsive immigration system. By prioritizing strategic immigration support for employers and skilled workers in key sectors and communities, the province aims to create a balanced approach to population growth and economic development.

Conclusion

Ontario’s latest round of provincial nomination invitations underscores its commitment to addressing regional labour shortages and supporting economic growth through strategic immigration. By targeting specific streams and regions, particularly Northern Ontario and REDI communities, the province is ensuring that immigration efforts align with local economic priorities. These initiatives, coupled with streamlined application processes and program updates, demonstrate Ontario’s dedication to creating a balanced approach to population growth and workforce development.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How many invitations were issued in the August 28, 2025, draws?

Ontario issued a total of 468 targeted invitations across three streams: Foreign Worker, International Student, and In-Demand Skills.

2. Which regions were targeted in these draws?

The invitations were primarily aimed at Northern Ontario and communities participating in the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) initiative.

3. What documents are required for the application process?

Candidates must submit their applications through the OINP e-Filing Portal within 14 calendar days. Required documents include a valid job offer, the updated Application for Approval of Employment Position (Employer Form), and other stream-specific requirements.

4. What is the purpose of the REDI initiative?

The REDI initiative aims to support economic development in specific communities by addressing population growth and labour market needs through targeted immigration efforts.

5. How long do candidates have to submit their applications?

Candidates must submit their permanent residence applications within 14 calendar days of receiving the invitation.

6. What is the significance of the updated Employer Form?

The updated Application for Approval of Employment Position (Employer Form) is mandatory for all applications under the Employer Job Offer streams. Using an outdated form will result in the application being returned with a refunded fee.