Ontario Opens Expression of Interest (EOI) Registration for the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream
Date Posted:August 5, 2026
Last Updated:August 5, 2026
On August 4, 2026, the Government of Ontario officially opened the Expression of Interest (EOI) portal for the new Ontario Workforce Priority Stream under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).
This stream was introduced as part of the major OINP reforms announced in June 2026. It is now one of Ontario’s primary permanent residence pathways, replacing several previous streams such as the Employer Job Offer and Human Capital categories.
A Wide Range of Occupations Are Eligible
The Ontario Workforce Priority Stream is open to applicants with a valid job offer in any National Occupational Classification (NOC) Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) category (TEER 0–5).
As a result, the program may provide permanent residence opportunities for a much broader range of occupations, including management, professional, technical, skilled trades, and service occupations.
The First Step Is to Register an EOI
Applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Registering an EOI does not mean that an application for provincial nomination can be submitted immediately. Only candidates who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the Ontario government will be eligible to proceed with their provincial nomination application.
At this time, it remains to be seen what EOI scores or applicant profiles will receive invitations, and further announcements from the Ontario government are expected.
In addition, before an applicant can register an EOI, the employer must complete the required registration through the Employer Portal. Therefore, employer participation is an essential part of the application process.
For Those Planning to Apply for Permanent Residence
If you are currently working in Ontario or are planning to work in Ontario, it is worthwhile to determine whether you may qualify under the new Ontario Workforce Priority Stream.
At Visa JP Canada, we provide comprehensive support throughout the process, including eligibility assessments, EOI registration, provincial nomination applications, and permanent residence applications. If you would like to find out whether your occupation and employment situation may qualify, please feel free to contact us.
This article is a summary prepared by Visa JP Canada based on official information from the Government of Ontario, organized for clarity and ease of understanding.
Source (Published: August 4, 2026): 2026 Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program updates (English)
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