The Ontario Immigration Nominee Program 2026 continues to move forward with strong momentum. Ontario has issued 1,404 new invitations under its Employer Job Offer streams through the Expression of Interest system. These targeted draws focus on skilled trades occupations, reinforcing Ontario’s commitment to filling labour shortages in key sectors. If you are planning Canada immigration through a provincial pathway, this update matters. The Ontario Immigration Nominee Program remains one of the most active and opportunity rich programs in Canada. Let us break down what this means for you.

Ontario Immigration Nominee Program 2026 Employer Job Offer Draw Results

Ontario issued two major targeted draws on February 18, 2026 under the Employer Job Offer streams.

Employer Job Offer Foreign Worker Stream

Detail	Information
Invitations issued	951
Profile creation period	July 2, 2025 to February 16, 2026
Score range	50 and above
Focus	Skilled trades occupations

Employer Job Offer International Student Stream

Detail	Information
Invitations issued	453
Profile creation period	July 2, 2025 to February 16, 2026
Score range	80 and above
Focus	Skilled trades occupations

These targeted draws show Ontario’s continued demand for skilled trades professionals, electricians, plumbers, technicians, construction professionals, and manufacturing workers.

How the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program Expression of Interest System Works

The Ontario Immigration Nominee Program uses an Expression of Interest system to manage applications efficiently. Candidates first create a profile in the OINP e Filing Portal.
Ontario then selects profiles from the pool based on labour market priorities, score ranking, and targeted occupations.

Important to remember:

• Meeting eligibility criteria does not guarantee an invitation
• Receiving an invitation does not automatically guarantee nomination
• Applicants must submit a complete application within strict deadlines

Deadlines vary by stream:

Stream	Application Deadline
Masters and PhD Graduate	14 calendar days
Employer Job Offer Position Approval	Employer must apply within 14 days
Employer Job Offer Candidate Application	Candidate must apply within 17 days

Why Ontario Immigration Nominee Program 2026 Is Significant

Ontario is Canada’s largest economy. It offers strong job markets, diverse industries, and stable growth. The Ontario Immigration Nominee Program 2026 reflects a clear strategy:

• Focus on in-demand occupations
• Prioritize candidates already connected to Ontario
• Support employer-driven immigration

Skilled trades are essential to housing development, infrastructure expansion, and industrial growth. With housing demand high and development ongoing, Ontario needs qualified workers.

For international students who studied in Ontario, the Employer Job Offer International Student stream remains a valuable pathway to permanent residence.

However, competition remains strong. Profiles with higher scores, relevant work experience, and genuine job offers have stronger chances of selection.

What Candidates Should Do Now

If you are in the Expression of Interest pool, ensure your profile remains accurate and updated.

• Check your score.
• Review your occupation classification.
• Confirm your job offer details.

If you are an employer, ensure position approval requirements are met promptly. Ontario does not provide advance notice before issuing invitations. Candidates must monitor updates regularly.

The latest Ontario Immigration Nominee Program 2026 draw confirms Ontario’s continued focus on skilled trades and employer-driven immigration pathways. With 1,404 invitations issued in one round, an opportunity exists for qualified candidates who align with labour needs. But the system remains competitive and deadline-driven.

If you are planning to apply under the Ontario Immigration Nominee Program, expert guidance can make a real difference. Connect with ImmigCanada, trusted for professional immigration solutions and recognized among the Best RCIC teams. Through ImmigCanada Immigration Consulting Services, you can receive accurate advice, application support, and strategic planning tailored to your goals.