With the start of the year, Ontario sets the stage for immigration with the first draw of the year. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) takes the lead by issuing 1,451 invitations in the first draw of 2024, showcasing the province’s dedication to attracting a diverse pool of candidates. Conducted through two distinctive rounds under Ontario’s Foreign Worker Stream, these draws emphasize the strategic focus on specific occupations to meet the evolving needs of the province.

Breaking Down the Details of the OINP Draws – January 9, 2024

The first round of invitations, totaling 630, targeted candidates with scores of 33 and above, focusing on 63 skilled trade occupations. This comprehensive list includes occupations such as:

NOC 22212: Drafting technologists and technicians
NOC 22301: Mechanical engineering technologists and technicians
NOC 22302: Industrial engineering and manufacturing technologists and technicians
NOC 22311: Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
NOC 22312: Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics
NOC 70010: Construction managers, and others

In the second round on the same date, 821 invitations were extended to candidates with scores of 40 and above, highlighting 41 healthcare occupations.

This diverse set includes occupations like:

NOC 30010: Managers in healthcare
NOC 31100: Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
NOC 31103: Veterinarians
NOC 31110: Dentists
NOC 31111: Optometrists, and various other healthcare professions.

Additionally, the second round also focused on 15 tech occupations, contributing to the dynamic landscape of Ontario’s workforce. This category encompasses occupations like:

NOC 20012: Computer and information systems managers
NOC 21211: Data Scientists
NOC 21220: Cybersecurity specialists
NOC 21221: Business system analysts
NOC 21222: Information systems specialists, and more.

These targeted draws align with the occupational demands of the province, providing tailored opportunities for candidates in key occupation sectors. The slightly reduced scores from the previous draw offer a favorable landscape for a broader spectrum of applicants to secure an invitation for permanent residency in 2024.

Eligibility Criteria for OINP Foreign Worker Stream

To qualify for the OINP Foreign Worker Stream, applicants must have a permanent, full-time job offer in NOC TEER categories 1, 2, or 3. The job offer should align with Ontario’s median wage levels and be deemed essential to the business. If already employed in the specified role, the proposed wage must meet or exceed the current wage. Additionally, candidates need two years of relevant work experience in the past five years, mandatory licensing if required, and should either reside abroad or hold a valid Canadian permit for work, study, or visitation, expressing a clear intention to settle in Ontario.

OINP Recent Draws

In the initial days of 2024, Ontario conducted two OINP draws on January 9, beckoning 1,451 hopeful applicants to embark on their journey toward permanent residency through the OINP Foreign Worker Stream. This strategic move sets the tone for Ontario’s inclusive immigration approach, emphasizing its commitment to welcoming skilled individuals into the province and fostering diverse talent. This bold step positions Ontario as a beacon for individuals seeking new opportunities and a fresh start in Canada throughout 2024.