Foreign workers flock to Ontario as new residence stream launches

In a move aimed at addressing the province's labour needs, the Ontario government has introduced a new immigration stream called the Workforce Priority Stream. This programme, which falls under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), provides a pathway for eligible foreign workers to obtain permanent residence in Canada. As of August 4, 2026, foreign nationals with a valid job offer from an eligible Ontario employer can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the province's e-Filing Portal. The Workforce Priority Stream comprises three distinct pathways, catering to higher-skilled workers, lower-skilled workers, and self-employed physicians registered to practise in Ontario. To be considered, applicants must create an EOI linked to a valid job offer submitted by their employer through the OINP Employer Portal. Although the stream was announced on June 26, 2026, candidates could only start submitting their expressions of interest after the portal's launch. A points-based system, introduced on July 20, 2026, will be used to rank applicants, with invitations to apply issued periodically. An EOI remains valid for up to 12 months, after which time candidates who have not received an invitation must submit a new one. Upon receiving an invitation, candidates have 17 calendar days to submit a complete application, while employers must apply for approval of the employment position within 14 days. Successful applicants will receive a provincial support letter, which can be used to apply for a federal work permit while their permanent residence application is being processed. The Workforce Priority Stream is the first immigration pathway launched under Ontario's revamped OINP, following the closure of all previous streams in May 2026. The province plans to introduce additional pathways, including a Priority Healthcare Worker Stream, an Entrepreneur Stream, and an Exceptional Talent Stream, as part of the programme's next phase.