New OINP Employer Portal and Program Updates (July 2025)

Effective July 1, 2025, Ontario has introduced major updates to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) designed to align the program more closely with Ontario's labour market needs. The Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (MLITSD) has rolled out significant regulatory changes, including the launch of the new OINP Employer Portal, potential in-person interviews, authority to return applications, and revised education requirements for early childhood educators.

Launch of the OINP Employer Portal

The OINP has officially launched its new electronic Employer Portal, shifting Employer Job Offer streams into an employer-led application process. Employers must now:

1. Register their business information through the Employer Portal.
2. Provide detailed job offer information.
3. Enable prospective applicants to register their Expression of Interest (EOI).

Candidates whose EOIs were previously withdrawn during the transition should now coordinate with their employers to submit new EOIs.

Important Deadlines for Employer Job Offer Streams

Meeting new deadlines is crucial for both employers and applicants:

• EOI Submission: Applicants must register their EOI within 30 calendar days after their employer submits the job offer through the Employer Portal.
• Approval of Employment Position: Employers must submit their application for employment position approval within 14 calendar days after receiving an invitation to apply from OINP.
• Application Submission and Payment: Applicants must submit their complete application and fee within 17 calendar days after receiving the invitation to apply.

These deadlines apply to the following streams:

• Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream
• Employer Job Offer: International Student stream
• Employer Job Offer: In-Demand Skills stream

In-Person Interviews Now Possible

To strengthen credibility and prevent fraud, the OINP can now require in-person interviews with employers and applicants. While accommodations are available if needed, being prepared for this step is advisable. Employers and applicants should anticipate the possibility of verifying job details and qualifications face-to-face.

Authority to Return Applications

The OINP now holds authority to return applications before issuing a nomination. Applications may be returned for reasons such as:

• Exceeding Ontario’s annual nomination allocation
• Misalignment with Ontario's urgent labour market needs
• Concerns regarding the authenticity or credibility of the application

Returned applications will receive a full fee refund, allowing the program to prioritize high-quality, relevant applications.

Relaxed Education Requirements for Early Childhood Educators

Early Childhood Educators applying under the Human Capital Priorities (HCP) and French-Speaking Skilled Worker (FSSW) streams now have relaxed education criteria. Those classified under NOC 42202 and holding membership in the College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE) no longer need to meet the minimum education requirement, facilitating easier access to nomination.

Implications for Employers and Applicants

Employers:

• Immediately register your business in the new Employer Portal.
• Be proactive in submitting job offers to expedite the nomination process.
• Prepare documentation thoroughly, anticipating possible in-person interviews.

Applicants:

• Coordinate closely with your employer to ensure timely submission of EOIs.
• Maintain organized and credible documentation for potential interviews.
• Early Childhood Educators should verify their CECE membership status.

Need Help?

Navigating these OINP updates can seem overwhelming. At Marin Immigration Law, we stay informed about the latest program changes and are ready to guide both employers and applicants through the new Employer Portal and application processes.

Reach out today to ensure your immigration plans align smoothly with Ontario’s updated requirements.

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