With Ontario’s 2026 nomination quota increased to 14,119 spots, this new framework will shape PR strategy for months to come.
If you are tracking Canada permanent residency pathways, take note. Effective immediately, Ontario has permanently closed all 8 existing OINP streams (including Employer Job Offer pathways, International Student streams, and Masters/PhD streams).
In their place, the province has launched a single, consolidated framework: The Ontario Workforce Priority Stream.
Here is exactly what you need to know about the 3 new pathways replacing the old system:
1. TEER 0-3 Pathway (Skilled Workers & Ontario Grads)
- Targets skilled internationally trained workers.
- The Catch: Requires a full-time, permanent job offer in Ontario.
- The Benefit for Grads: Recent Ontario graduates receive a major edge, requiring only 3 consecutive months of work experience with the employer (instead of the standard 6 months).
- Language/Education: Minimum CLB 6 (CLB 5 for some roles) and a post-secondary degree/diploma.
2. TEER 4-5 Pathway (Essential & Entry-Level Workers)
- Replaces the former In-Demand Skills stream.
- Requires 9 months of cumulative experience with the hiring employer.
- Language/Education: Minimum CLB 4 and a high school diploma—making it a vital pathway for agriculture, manufacturing, and caregiving roles.
3. Self-Employed Physicians Pathway
- A dedicated track for medical professionals.
- The Best Part: Unlike the other pathways, no job offer is required. You must simply be a member in good standing with the CPSO and eligible to bill through OHIP.
What happens next if you have an active profile?
The Expression of Interest (EOI) system is currently paused and will reopen later this summer.
Existing EOIs that did not receive an invitation are being automatically withdrawn. However, applications already submitted before the June 26 cutoff will still be processed under old rules.
Good news for rural businesses: The new stream introduces lower gross annual revenue thresholds for employers located in rural communities (census divisions under 150,000 residents) to help spread immigrant talent outside the GTA!
