New Ontario PNP Stream Announced

Ontario has begun the first phase of a significant redesign of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) by introducing a new employment-focused pathway known as the Ontario Workforce Priority stream.

Announced on June 26, 2026, the reform replaces eight existing immigration streams and marks the start of a broader modernization of the province’s nominee program.

Although the new stream has been formally established through updated regulations, Ontario says its Expression of Interest (EOI) system is expected to reopen later this summer.

The changes are designed to simplify permanent immigration for foreign workers who already have job offers and work experience in Ontario. The province also aims to help employers retain skilled employees in occupations that are difficult to fill while making the nomination process more accessible for businesses operating in rural and northern communities.

This first phase signals Ontario’s intention to streamline its provincial immigration system by placing greater emphasis on employment needs and workforce retention.