Ontario Receives 14,119 PNP Nominations for 2026, Up 31 Percent from 2025
Date Posted:February 12, 2026
Last Updated:February 12, 2026
Index
The Government of Ontario has announced its nomination allocation for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) for 2026. The province has been granted 14,119 nomination spaces by the federal government, representing a significant increase compared to the previous year.
31% Increase Compared to 2025
Ontario’s 2026 allocation of 14,119 nominations marks an increase of approximately 31% from the 10,750 spaces allocated in 2025. This growth reflects a broader expansion of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) across Canada.
Nationwide, total PNP allocations have risen substantially, from 55,000 spots in 2025 to 91,500 in 2026.
However, despite this increase, Ontario’s 2026 allocation still represents only about 67% of its 2024 level, when the province was allocated 21,500 nominations.
PNP Nomination Allocations Comparison
| Year | Allocation | Change (YoY) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 21,500 | – | – |
| 2025 | 10,750 | 50% Decrease | Significant reduction |
| 2026 | 14,119 | 31% Increase | 67% of 2024 levels |
Background: Canada Total PNP Targets
| Item | 2025 | 2026 | Growth Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total National PNP Slots | 55,000 | 91,500 | Approx. 66% |
What This Means for International Students and IEC Participants
The increased allocation is positive news for international students, IEC (e.g. Working Holiday) participants, and others seeking permanent residence (PR) through Ontario. The PNP remains one of the key pathways to Canadian permanent residence, and a larger allocation may result in more opportunities for selection.
That said, it is important to note that this figure represents the maximum number of nominations Ontario is allowed to issue, not a guarantee of approval for applicants. Competition is expected to remain strong, particularly in popular streams and high-demand categories.
Ontario Has Not Yet Released Stream or Occupation Breakdown
At this time, Ontario has not released details on how the 2026 allocation will be distributed across individual OINP streams, nor has it announced priority occupations or sectors. Further information is expected to be released by the provincial government in stages throughout the year.
What to Expect from Ontario’s 2026 PNP Strategy
Following recent adjustments to Canada’s overall immigration strategy, provincial nominee allocations have been increased, allowing Ontario to issue more nominations than in 2025. Since last year saw a significant reduction in PNP allocations nationwide, the 2026 figures suggest a partial recovery.
As Canada’s most populous province with a large and diverse economy, Ontario is expected to continue prioritizing skilled workers and talent in specific in-demand occupations. Prospective applicants are encouraged to closely monitor upcoming announcements regarding priority streams and eligibility criteria and to prepare early.
This article is a summary prepared by Visa JP Canada based on the official announcement from the Government of Ontario, organized for clarity and ease of understanding.
Source: 2026 Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program updates (English)
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