Should Ontario Simplify Its Immigration Program from 8 Streams to 4?

Official title: Proposed amendments to regulations under the Ontario Immigration Act, 2015 to redesign the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program's (OINP) Streams

Open Regulations & Permits Economy & Jobs Health & Safety Immigration
Ontario wants to overhaul how it selects immigrants for permanent residency. Right now, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program has 8 different streams. The province is proposing to consolidate these into 4: one for employer job offers, one for healthcare workers, one for entrepreneurs, and one for exceptional talent. They're also asking for feedback on a new employer portal launched in July 2025.

Why This Matters

Know someone trying to immigrate to Ontario? These changes could make it easier—or harder—depending on their situation. Healthcare workers might get a faster path without needing a job offer first. Employers struggling to hire could benefit from a simpler process. If you've used the new employer portal, the government wants to know if it actually works.

What Could Change

The current 8 immigration streams would become 4. Healthcare professionals could apply without a job offer if they have valid registration. Entrepreneurs who've already started a business in Ontario would get their own pathway. Construction workers might be able to use union support instead of a permanent job offer to prove their experience.

Key Issues

  • Should the 8 current immigration streams be consolidated into 4 new ones?
  • Should healthcare professionals be able to apply without a job offer?
  • Should construction workers be able to use union support instead of a job offer?
  • Is the new employer portal user-friendly and accessible?

How to Participate

  1. Read the proposal to understand the 4 new immigration streams and what's changing.
  2. Submit your feedback through the comment form by the deadline.

Submit Your Input

Comment On The Immigration Program Redesign
Questions Being Asked (7)
  1. What do you see as the key strengths of the proposed approach for the new streams?
  2. What potential limitations or risks do you foresee with the proposed approach?
  3. Are there any recommendations you would like to share regarding the application process under the proposed approach?
  4. Is there anything else you think the OINP should consider as new streams are developed?
  5. What has your experience been like with the employer portal? Were there any parts of the submission that you found difficult or lengthy?
  6. How would you describe your experience using the portal? Were the instructions clear and easy to follow?
  7. Did you encounter any technical issues with the portal? If yes, how did that affect you?