As an immigration consultant, one of the most frequent questions I get asked is whether it’s possible to apply for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) if you are already living and working in Canada. The short answer is: Yes, you absolutely can! But, just like any immigration program, it depends on the specific stream you’re interested in and your current situation.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through the different ways you can apply to the OINP from within Canada, as well as the key things you need to know.

1. OINP Streams for Those Already in Canada

If you’re already in Canada, there are several OINP streams that you can apply for. Whether you're working, studying, or on a temporary visa, Ontario offers a variety of pathways that could be a good fit for your situation.

Employer Job Offer Streams

If you’re already working in Ontario and have a job offer from an eligible employer, you may qualify for one of the Employer Job Offer streams. These streams are great options for individuals with a valid job offer, and you don't necessarily need to be part of Express Entry to apply. Some of these streams include:

• Foreign Worker Stream
• International Student Stream
• In-Demand Skills Stream

Example: Let’s say you’ve been working in Ontario on a temporary work permit and your employer offers you a permanent, full-time position. If you meet the other requirements, you may be eligible to apply under one of these Employer Job Offer streams.

Human Capital Priorities Stream (Express Entry)

If you’re already in Ontario and working in a high-demand occupation, you may also be eligible for the Human Capital Priorities Stream. This stream is aligned with Express Entry, so you would need to be in the Express Entry pool to be considered. However, many of the candidates who qualify for this stream are already in Canada and have the right skills to contribute to Ontario’s economy.

Skilled Trades Stream

If you have work experience in Ontario's skilled trades, you might also qualify for the Skilled Trades Stream. This is a great option for people who are already working in the province’s trades sector and want to stay long-term.

2. Who Can Apply from Within Canada?

There are many individuals already in Canada who might be eligible for the OINP, including:

·       Temporary Workers: If you’re a temporary foreign worker with a valid work permit in Ontario, you may be eligible for several OINP streams, particularly the Employer Job Offer streams.

·       International Students: If you’ve recently graduated from an eligible post-secondary institution in Ontario, the International Student Stream might be the right option for you. Ontario welcomes skilled graduates who want to remain and work in the province.

·       Other Temporary Residents: Even if you’re on a visitor visa or temporary resident status, you might still be eligible for certain OINP streams depending on your specific circumstances.

3. Streams That Don’t Require an Express Entry Profile

Good news! Some OINP streams don’t require you to have an Express Entry profile. This includes streams like the Employer Job Offer streams, where your eligibility is primarily based on having a valid job offer from an Ontario employer.

This is great news for those who are already in Ontario, working or studying, and want to secure permanent residency without needing to be part of the Express Entry pool.

4. What About Your Current Status in Canada?

Your current status in Canada, such as whether you're on a work permit, study permit, or visitor status, will determine which OINP stream you’re eligible for. But as long as you're legally residing in Ontario, you can apply for the OINP if you meet the criteria for the stream you’re interested in.

Conclusion:

So, to answer the big question: Yes, you can apply for the OINP if you’re already in Canada. The OINP offers several pathways for individuals who are already living, studying, or working in Ontario. Whether you’re a temporary worker with a job offer, an international student, or someone in a skilled trade, there are multiple options available for you to apply.

But remember, each stream has its own eligibility requirements, so it’s important to understand which one suits your situation best. If you're unsure which stream you qualify for, or if you need help navigating the application process, don’t hesitate to reach out. As an immigration consultant, I’m here to help guide you through the process and ensure you’re on the right path to securing your Ontario nomination.

Feel free to contact me at info@traviaimmigration.com if you have any questions, or if you’d like personalized advice on your eligibility for the OINP. I’m happy to assist you every step of the way!

 

Disclaimer: None of the information provided above constitutes legal advice. The details shared in this blog are intended for general informational purposes only. It is strongly recommended that you verify the latest policies and guidelines directly from the official IRCC website or consult a qualified immigration professional before applying. I do not guarantee that the information provided is 100% accurate or up-to-date. If you come across any inaccuracies or inconsistencies, please don't hesitate to contact me at info@traviaimmigration.com