February 2026 marked significant changes to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) with targeted invitations issued under various streams. On February 2, 2026, the OINP invited 129 candidates to apply under the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream, specifically targeting physicians in NOC codes 31100, 31101, and 31102. To qualify, candidates needed a minimum score of 33 and a job offer in the mentioned NOC categories. This initiative aims to address the demand for skilled medical professionals in Ontario.
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Regional Economic Development through Immigration
In a move to boost regional economic development, the OINP invited 47 candidates under the REDI pilot on February 2, 2026. Applicants residing in Lanark and Leeds and Grenville were considered under the Employer Job Offer streams, which include Foreign Worker, International Student, and In-Demand Skills streams. Candidates needed a score of 44 or higher and a job offer in specific NOC codes such as 12200, 21222, and 31301.
Healthcare and Education Focus
The OINP also extended 1,649 invitations to candidates in healthcare and early childhood education sectors. Applicants required a score of 36+ in the Foreign Worker stream or 56+ in the International Student stream. Eligible NOC codes included 31300, 31301, and 42202. The program focuses on filling crucial roles in healthcare and education, crucial areas for Ontario’s growth.
January 2026 Updates
Changes in January 2026 expanded eligibility for self-employed physicians under the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream. The program now allows physicians with a provisional certificate of registration from the CPSO and an OHIP billing number to apply. These changes aim to better integrate internationally educated physicians into Ontario’s healthcare system.
Applicants and employers must use the Employer Portal for job position approvals, ensuring a streamlined process. The updates, effective from January 1, 2026, align with modifications to the Medicine Act, 1991, enhancing opportunities for foreign-trained physicians.
Application Process
Eligible candidates must submit their profiles by January 28, 2026, and complete applications within 17 days of receiving an invitation. Employers are required to submit job offer applications within 14 days. The OINP e-Filing Portal facilitates the application process, providing a user-friendly interface for candidates and employers.
Implications
The 2026 updates to the OINP reflect Ontario’s strategic focus on attracting skilled professionals to bolster key sectors such as healthcare and education. By expanding eligibility and streamlining processes, the province aims to address labor shortages and support regional economic growth.
Key Takeaways
- 129 invitations issued for physicians under the Foreign Worker stream with NOC codes 31100, 31101, 31102.
- 47 candidates invited for REDI to support regional development in Lanark and Leeds and Grenville.
- 1,649 invitations extended in healthcare and education sectors to address critical shortages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new eligibility criteria for self-employed physicians?
Self-employed physicians with a provisional certificate from the CPSO and an OHIP billing number are now eligible under the Foreign Worker stream.
How does the REDI pilot support regional development?
The REDI pilot targets candidates in specific regions like Lanark, promoting economic growth through immigration.
What is the deadline for submitting applications after receiving an invitation?
Invited candidates must submit their applications within 17 calendar days from the invitation date.
Which NOC codes are prioritized under the healthcare and education streams?
Priority NOC codes include 31300, 31301 for healthcare professionals, and 42202 for early childhood educators.
How have the Medicine Act changes impacted the OINP?
Changes have broadened eligibility for international physicians, aligning the OINP with updated Medicine Act regulations.
Source: Official Government Source
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