Maple News reports that Ontario has eased key requirements for international students applying through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), significantly broadening the pool of eligible applicants.
As of January 1, 2024, international graduates with any one-year Ontario College Graduate Certificate are now eligible to apply through the OINP Employer Job Offer: International Student stream. Previously, applicants with one-year graduate certificates qualified only if their program required a prior degree for admission. This change makes more post-graduate certificate programs acceptable under the immigration stream, making it more accessible for international students aiming to transition to permanent residence.
The OINP’s Employer Job Offer: International Student stream is designed to support international graduates who receive a job offer in a skilled occupation within Ontario. Occupations must be classified under Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) as Level 0, A, or B. The program provides a pathway to permanent residence for eligible international students either in Canada or abroad.
Applicants must secure a valid job offer and meet the stream’s requirements, including submission of an Employer Form completed by their Ontario-based employer. The stream not only supports Ontario’s growing labour market needs but also aligns with the province’s broader immigration strategy to retain global talent trained in Ontario institutions.
Once nominated through the OINP, candidates become eligible to apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence. They may also apply for a work permit to continue employment while their PR application is being processed.
This update reflects Ontario’s commitment to attracting and retaining international students who contribute to the province’s economic development. It offers greater flexibility to graduates from Ontario colleges, particularly those enrolled in practical, short-term programs designed to meet evolving industry demands.
Maple News will continue to monitor further updates to provincial nominee programs across Canada, as provinces increasingly tailor immigration pathways to align with regional workforce needs.