Ontario Workforce Priority Stream: New OINP program for TEER 0–5 workers
Ontario has replaced eight previous OINP streams with the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream. The new program's Expression of Interest (EOI) registration system has been open since August 4, 2026.
Notably, the program includes a stream for workers with job offers in all TEER 0–5 occupational groups, in addition to a specific stream for certain self-employed physicians.
Who should look into this?
Workers with a full-time, permanent job offer in Ontario who possess the experience, language proficiency, and education required for the job's TEER group.
This is an employer-driven program. Employers must create a job offer on the Employer Portal first; only then can candidates register an EOI.
Key Requirements for TEER 0–3
Candidates must meet one of the experience or professional licensing requirements, such as:
- Six months of continuous, paid, full-time employment in the same position, business, and location as stated in the job offer, accumulated within the 12 months prior to application.
- If a qualifying recent graduate in Ontario: three months of continuous employment in the proposed position, accumulated within the last 12 months.
- Or two years of paid experience in the same NOC code, accumulated within the last five years.
- Certain professions that require a valid license or certificate of practice in Ontario or Canada may qualify under the licensing stream.
Language Proficiency
- Most TEER 0–3 occupations: minimum CLB/NCLC 6 in all four skills.
- Listed skilled trades: minimum CLB/NCLC 5.
- Certain qualifying recent graduates in Ontario may use their Ontario credential per regulations in lieu of language test results.
Education
- Occupations not in the listed skilled trades: usually requires a post-secondary degree or diploma of at least one year, or equivalent foreign credential.
- Occupations in the listed skilled trades: may use a Canadian secondary school diploma or equivalent foreign credential.
- NOC 33102 — Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates have specific education requirements.
Key Requirements for TEER 4–5
Candidates must have:
- At least nine months of cumulative, paid, full-time experience in the same position, business, and location as stated in the job offer; experience must be accumulated within the two years prior to application.
- Minimum language proficiency of CLB/NCLC 4 in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
- A Canadian secondary school diploma or equivalent foreign credential. If educated outside Canada, a valid ECA is required to verify equivalency.
Requirements for the Job Offer and Business
The job offer must be for a full-time, permanent position in an eligible occupation.
The base salary must typically be equal to or higher than the median wage for the occupation in the region of employment. For Ontario recent graduates in TEER 0–3, a lower wage threshold may apply per regulations. Bonuses, commissions, vacation pay, and non-monetary benefits are not included in the base salary calculation to meet requirements.
Businesses must also meet conditions regarding:
- Minimum of three years of active operation.
- A business location in Ontario.
- Minimum revenue based on the region.
- Required number of full-time employees who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
- No outstanding orders under Ontario labor or occupational safety laws.
A candidate's eligibility does not override the requirements for the business.
Key Process
- The business registers on the Employer Portal and creates a job offer.
- The candidate receives a Job Offer ID and registers an EOI within 30 days. EOI registration is free.
- Ontario ranks profiles and selects candidates based on the province's labor needs.
- If invited, the business must submit an application for position approval within 14 days; the candidate has a total of 17 days to submit their application and pay fees.
- If Ontario approves the position and issues a nomination, the candidate proceeds to submit a permanent residence application to IRCC. The federal government makes the final PR decision. )
Common Misconceptions
- Having a job offer does not guarantee an invitation to apply.
- Creating a job offer on the Employer Portal is not the same as submitting an application for position approval. Businesses only perform the approval step after the candidate is invited.
- Acceptance of TEER 0–5 occupations does not mean every candidate will be selected. Ontario may hold general draws or target specific occupations, regions, and worker characteristics.
- Even if a job offer is eligible, if the business fails to meet operational, revenue, or staffing requirements, the nomination will not be approved.
- Previous OINP streams are closed; new applications must align with the current Ontario Workforce Priority Stream.
Limitations
EOI registration does not guarantee an invitation. Receiving an invitation does not guarantee a nomination by Ontario. A provincial nomination does not guarantee the granting of PR, as IRCC still reviews admissibility, background, health, and the entire federal file.
KeyApply assists businesses in assessing recruitment needs, operations, and human resources planning. Individual eligibility consultations, application preparation, and immigration representation are provided by a licensed RCIC or attorney.
You can call (+1) 647 993 9654 via WhatsApp/Zalo, email info@keyapply.com, or message via KeyApply.com.
Government Sources
Information verified as of October 12, 2026.
- Ontario Workforce Priority Stream – program requirements
- 2026 OINP updates
- Employer guide
- How to use the Employer Portal
Related Services and Opportunities
- LMIA Programs – learn about foreign worker recruitment support
- Nurse – Foot Care Clinic hiring in Ontario
- Personal Support Worker (PSW) program in Mississauga
The services, job openings, and courses above have their own conditions. Participation does not automatically meet the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream requirements; one must verify the NOC code, job offer, business, and candidate profile.