06 Aug Understanding the OINP Draw: How It Works and What You Need to Know
The OINP draw, which stands for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program draw, releases notifications every year. The OINP allows Ontario to select individuals and their family members for permanent residency in Canada. As per the latest OINP draw of July 2024, a total of 209 ITA’s were issued to human capital priorities with a CRS score of 395-444 and above. What are ITAs? How are they issued? And how do 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 fulfill 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.
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.
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 labor 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.
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.
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!
