Ontario is preparing for one of the biggest Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) restructurings in recent years — and many applicants may soon need to restart parts of their process.
Based on information shared during a recent OINP session attended by our RCIC, Svetlana Demb, Ontario will officially transition to a new system on May 30, 2026. As part of this transition, existing Expressions of Interest (EOIs) that have not received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) are expected to be withdrawn.
This means that many candidates currently waiting in the pool may need to create brand-new profiles under the updated rules.
What We Know So Far
According to the information shared during the session:
- Existing EOIs without invitations will be removed from the system
- Employers will need to submit NEW job offers through the updated employer process
- Only after the employer submits the new job offer will candidates be able to create new OINP profiles
- The process will become even more employer-driven than before
- Certain forms will require original handwritten ("ink") signatures instead of digital signatures
From the employer side, two signing officers will reportedly need to physically sign documents, which must then be scanned and submitted. The same rule is expected to apply to some applicant forms as well.
These operational changes may significantly slow down preparation times for both employers and applicants.
Why Is Ontario Doing This?
Ontario has already announced major regulatory changes to the OINP earlier this year, including a complete restructuring of existing immigration streams and broader authority for targeted draws.
The province appears to be moving toward a system that gives employers greater control and responsibility in the nomination process. Ontario has also been working on expanding and restructuring its Employer Portal system since 2025.
The government's stated goal is to improve efficiency, better target labour market needs, and reduce application backlogs.
Talk to us before May 30. We'll review where your file stands today and map out the steps you and your employer should take so the transition doesn't catch you off guard.
Book a Consultation →What Applicants Should Do Now
If you currently have an active OINP profile but have not received an invitation yet, you should prepare for possible re-registration under the new system.
We strongly recommend:
- speaking with your employer in advance
- confirming whether the employer is willing and able to resubmit the job offer
- preparing updated supporting documents early
- monitoring OINP announcements closely over the next few days
Employers should also be prepared for additional administrative steps, including manual signatures and new submission procedures.
Important Reminder
At the moment, some details are still being clarified, and Ontario may release additional operational instructions shortly before or after May 30.
However, based on the information currently available, both employers and applicants should be ready for delays, additional paperwork, and a transition period while the new system is implemented.
If you are unsure how these changes may affect your case, our team at LANA Immigration Consulting Services Inc. can help you assess your options and prepare for the transition.
This article is for general information purposes. It does not constitute legal or immigration advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult a licensed immigration consultant.