Understanding the OINP Draw

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 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 on June 6, 2025, a total of 72 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to foreign workers and international students, and there was no CRS score range specified. But 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.

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.

ONIP Streams and CRS Score Ranges  

In the ONIP draw, each stream has its own selection criteria. Some streams use Ontario’s Expression of Interest (EOI) system, while others are linked to the federal Express Entry system.   

The required CRS scores can change with each draw, depending on the province’s needs and the job market. Below is a summary of the main streams and what they usually look for. 

Stream  Type  Typical CRS Range  Requirement Highlights  
Human Captial Priorities  Express Entry-linked  414–528  Skilled occupation, work experience 
French-Speaking Skilled Workers  Express Entry-linked  290–445  French proficiency 
Employer Job Offer  EOI-based  N/A  Valid job offer from Ontario employer 
Master’s/PHD Graduate  EOI-based  N/A  Ontario degree & language proficiency 

How Do OINP Draw Work?  

The OINP is critical in helping skilled workers, international students, and other professionals obtain permanent residency in the country. It happens periodically, and candidates are invited for provincial nominations through ITAs. These draws work through a selection mechanism that chooses candidates from the pool of registered applicants.  

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.     

1. Choose the Right Stream    

Before anything else, you must identify the stream that best fits your background and goals. There are two main pathways:  

  • The Expression of Interest (EOI) system is used for streams such as Employer Job Offer and Graduate categories (Master’s and PhD).    
  • Express Entry-linked streams, like Human Capital Priorities, French-Speaking Skilled Workers, or Skilled Trades.  

Register using the Expression of Interest or Express Entry system. Each stream has its own criteria and application process, so choosing the right one is an important first step.  

2. Create Your Profile

Once you’ve chosen your stream, you’ll need to create your profile by going to the official portal called the OINP.   

  • For EOI-based streams, register a profile through Ontario’s OINP e-filing portal.   
  • For Express Entry-linked streams, create a profile on the federal IRCC Express Entry system and make sure to indicate your interest in moving to Ontario.    

3. Receive a Notification of Interest (NOI)

If your profile meets the needs of the stream and your score is competitive, Ontario may issue you a Notification of Interest (NOI) or a direct Invitation to Apply (ITA) during a draw. This means you’ve been identified as a strong candidate.  

4. Submit an Application to ONIP    

Once you receive a NOI (Notification of Interest), you must submit your OINP application within 45 calendar days. Be sure to follow all instructions carefully and submit complete and accurate information.    

5. Meet All the Requirements

Each stream will have specific requirements. You need to make sure to meet these, too. This may include:  

  • A valid full-time job offer from an Ontario employer (for Employer Job Offer streams)  
  • Canadian education credentials (for graduate streams)  
  • Relevant work experience  
  • Strong language test scores in English or French  
  • Proof of settlement funds and intention to live in Ontario  

6. Gather and Upload Required Documents

Next, you need to have your documents ready to validate the information in your application.   

You’ll need to prepare several documents like a valid passport and identification documents, language test results, proof of job, and work experience. It’s best to have these documents ready in advance to avoid last-minute delays.  

7. Receive a Provincial Nomination (If Approved)

Submit your application, and you will be issued a provincial nomination certificate if approved. If you applied through an Express Entry-linked stream, this nomination would add 600 additional points to your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.   

This gives you a strong chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in Canada from the federal government. Generally, if you have a high-ranking profile, you can expect to receive an ITA within a few days or weeks after a draw.    

8. Apply For Permanent Residency via IRCC

With the provincial nomination, you can apply for permanent residency through IRCC. They will review your application to make sure that you meet all federal requirements, and then they will make their decision.  

9. Wait for the Final Decision

Lastly, if you have the required CRS score and fulfill all the requirements, your chances of receiving an ITA for permanent residency become easier. If everything is in order, IRCC will approve your application.   

Then, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), and you’ll be ready to officially move to Ontario and begin your new life in Canada.  

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.