The OINP draw, which stands for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program draw, releases notifications every year. The OINP allows Ontario to select eligible individuals and their family members for permanent residency in Canada. This selection is based on different criteria and streams.
As per the latest OINP draw of January 2025, a total of 4 ITA’s were issued to foreign work stream for the individuals eligible for federal Economic Mobility Pathways Project, and there was no CRS score range specified. What are ITAs? How are they issued? And how does OINP draw work? Let’s uncover these in this blog ahead.
What Are ITAs and How Are They Issued?
ITAs are periodic “Invitations to Apply” that the OINP issues throughout the year. These ITAs are issued according to various streams covered under Ontario’s Expression of Interest system.
These include multiple categories like Employer job offers and master’s or PhD graduates. The streams include Human Capital Priorities, Skilled Trades, and French-speaking skilled Workers. Each stream has a different application process.
How Do OINP Draw Work?
The OINP is critical in helping skilled workers, international students, and other professionals obtain permanent residency in the country. These draws happen periodically, and candidates are invited for provincial nominations through ITAs.
Generally, there are specific criteria that the candidates must meet to get nominated. But before that, you should know the steps to start the complete application process.
- Register using the Expression of Interest or Express Entry system.
- If you receive a NOI (Notification of Interest), you must submit your OINP application within 45 calendar days. However, before applying, ensure you meet all the requirements for the draw.
- Each stream will have specific requirements. You need to make sure to meet these, too.
- Next, you need to have your documents ready to validate the information in your application.
- Submit your application, and you will be issued a provincial nomination certificate if approved.
- With the provincial nomination, you can apply for permanent residency through IRCC.
- Lastly, if you have the required CRS score and fulfil all the requirements, your chances of receiving an ITA for permanent residency become easier.
- Generally, if you have a high-ranking profile, you can expect to receive an ITA within a few days or weeks after a draw.
What Factors Influence OINP Draw Invitations?
There are various factors on which it depends whether a candidate will receive an ITA in the OINP draw. These factors include the CRS score, language proficiency, relevant work experience, and specific skills. Let’s discuss them one by one:
1. High CRS Scores
Generally, the OINP identifies candidates with a minimum score of 400 under the CRS. But as per the latest draw of July 2024, candidates received the ITA if they had a CRS score between 395 – 444. A higher CRS score can give you a better chance of getting an invitation, especially when the cut-off scores fluctuate.
2. Language Proficiency in English/French
The candidates must demonstrate a language proficiency in English or French in all four components. These components include speaking, reading, writing, and listening. Proving strong language skills can significantly improve your profile and boost your chances of selection in the OINP draw.
3. A Valid Job Offer from an Ontario Employer
To receive the ITA, you must hold a valid job offer from an Ontario employer under the Employer job offer category. Certain occupations in Ontario may require candidates to have certain specific skills or professions. Only if your occupation or job offer matches the labour market needs will you be eligible for the OINP draw.
4. Relevant Work Experience
You must have at least 12 months of continuous, full-time employment experience to be eligible for the ITA. This experience should be recent and directly related to the job role being applied for. Relevant work experience helps demonstrate your ability to contribute effectively to Ontario’s economy.
5. Having Necessary Documents Ready
To avoid any delays and issues in your selection, prepare all necessary documents. The essential documents for permanent residency include- a valid passport, birth certificate, language test results, work experience documents, medical examination receipt, and passport-sized photographs. Having these documents in order will make your submission smoother and more efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
We’ve put together a list of the most asked questions to help you better understand the process and what to expect. Whether you’re just starting your application or already in the middle of it, these FAQs will guide you through the essentials.
1. How often does OINP issue ITAs in a year?
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issues Invitations to Apply (ITAs) periodically throughout the year, but the frequency, size, and timing of draws can vary based on the program’s application inventory and specific needs.
2. What is the OINP draw score for 2025?
Based on the 2025 status, the CRS score for the OINP draw for general streams falls under 414–528 and 290–445 for French-Speaking Skilled Workers stream.
3. What is the processing time for OINP?
For graduate students their application process takes about 30 to 60 days and for the Employer-based and Express Entry applications may take 60 to 90 days.
4. How do I check my OINP status?
To know the status of your application form, just log in to your OINP account using the e-filing portal. That’s where you can see the status of your application.
Conclusion
Ontario immigration seems like a not-so-close dream when you are unaware of the proper steps for how OINP draws work. Getting an ITA for the OINP draws is the critical pathway to getting your permanent residency in the country. However, you should be well informed about the basic requirements you must meet to be eligible.
Work on getting a high CRS score, acquiring good language proficiency, and adequate work experience. These aspects will increase your chances of getting permanent residency.
For more information on Ontario immigration, contact our Visa Consultants in Mohali.
