If you’re looking to make Ontario your permanent home, securing Canadian permanent residence (PR) is an essential step. Canada, and Ontario in particular, offers a welcoming environment for newcomers. This blog will break down the exact steps you need to take to receive an invitation for PR status in Ontario.

What is Permanent Residency?

Permanent Residency (PR) allows you to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely. Obtaining PR is more than just a change in legal status; it grants you the ability to live, work, and study in Canada indefinitely. As a PR holder, you’ll have access to most of the same benefits as Canadian citizens, including healthcare and education. However, you won’t have the right to vote or run for political office.

Why Choose Ontario?

Ontario is one of Canada’s most diverse and economically robust provinces. With cities like Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton, it offers a plethora of job opportunities, cultural experiences, and educational institutions.

Overview of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is a cornerstone of Ontario’s immigration framework, designed to address the province’s labor market needs. This program operates in partnership with the Government of Canada through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The OINP identifies and nominates individuals for permanent residence who possess the skills and experience that are in demand in Ontario. By aligning with the economic priorities of the province, the OINP ensures that Ontario continues to attract and retain talent that contributes to its growth and prosperity.

Steps to Get PR in Ontario

1. Determine Your Eligibility

Before diving into the application process, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. Generally, you need to consider the following factors:

• Age: Most programs favor younger applicants (between 18-35).
• Education: A higher education level can earn you more points in the selection system.
• Work Experience: Relevant work experience in your field can significantly boost your chances.
• Language Ability: You’ll need to demonstrate your language ability in English or French through standardized tests like IELTS or TEF.

2. Choose the Right Immigration Program: Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program

Ontario has several immigration pathways. Here are the most popular ones:

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is part of the broader Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows provinces to nominate individuals for permanent residency based on their qualifications. This program allows Ontario to nominate individuals for PR based on their skills and experience. There are different streams under OINP:

• Employer Job Offer Stream: For individuals with a job offer from an Ontario employer.
• Human Capital Priorities Stream: For skilled workers with qualifications and work experience.
• International Student Stream: For graduates of Ontario institutions who wish to stay in the province.

Eligibility Requirements for OINP Streams

To qualify for the OINP, applicants must meet the specific requirements of the stream they are applying to. The program offers several streams, each tailored to different types of applicants:

• Ontario Express Entry: Human Capital Priorities Stream: Targets skilled workers with the necessary qualifications and work experience.
• Ontario Express Entry: French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: For French-speaking skilled workers with strong English language abilities.
• General Category: For individuals with a permanent, full-time job offer from an Ontario employer.
• International Student with a Job Offer Stream: For international students who have a job offer in Ontario.
• International Student – Master’s Graduate Stream: For graduates with a Master’s degree from an Ontario university.
• International Student – PhD Graduate Stream: For individuals who have completed a PhD program at an Ontario university.
• Entrepreneur Stream: For individuals looking to start or buy a business in Ontario.

Each stream has its own set of eligibility criteria, including language proficiency, education, work experience, and settlement funds. It’s crucial to review the specific requirements for the stream you are interested in to ensure you meet all the necessary criteria.

Express Entry

The Express Entry system is an online platform that manages applications for various federal immigration programs. If you qualify, you can create a profile and be entered into a pool. Ontario can then nominate you through the OINP.

3. Gather Required Documents

Once you’ve determined the appropriate pathway, gather the necessary documents. Common documents include:

• Passport: A valid passport for you and any accompanying family members.

• Language Test Results: Proof of your proficiency in English or French.

• Educational Credentials Assessment (ECA): An evaluation of your foreign education.

• Work Experience Documents: References or letters from past employers.

4. Create Your Express Entry Profile

If you’re using the Express Entry system, follow these steps:

1. Create an Online Profile: Fill out your personal details, including education, work experience, and language test scores.

2. Receive a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: Your profile will be assigned a score based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.

3. Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your CRS score is high enough, you’ll receive an ITA in a draw.

5. Apply for Provincial Nomination

If you receive a notification from Ontario to apply for provincial nomination, follow these steps:

1. Submit Your Application: Complete the OINP application online and submit it with all required documents.

2. Pay the Fee: Be prepared to pay the application fee, which varies depending on the stream.

3. Wait for a Decision: The processing time can vary; check the OINP website for updates.

6. Submit Your PR Application

If you receive a provincial nomination, you can apply for PR through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):

1. Gather Additional Documents: This may include medical exams and police clearance certificates.

2. Complete the Application Package: Fill out the necessary forms and include your provincial nomination certificate.

3. Pay the Fees: Ensure you pay the application fee.

4. Submit Your Application: Send your completed application package to the appropriate IRCC office.

7. Wait for Processing

Processing times can vary, so it’s essential to be patient. You can track your application status online through the IRCC portal.

8. Prepare for Your Arrival

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa, if applicable. Prepare for your new life in Ontario by researching neighborhoods, schools, and local services.

After Receiving Permanent Resident Status

Achieving permanent resident status through the OINP opens up a world of opportunities in Ontario. As a permanent resident, you have the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the province. You will also gain access to Canada’s universal healthcare system, ensuring you and your family receive the medical care you need. Additionally, permanent residents can sponsor their family members to join them in Canada, helping to reunite families and build a supportive community.

Maintaining Permanent Resident Status

Maintaining your permanent resident status requires meeting certain obligations. You must be physically present in Canada for at least 730 days within a five-year period. This residency obligation ensures that you remain connected to Canada and contribute to its society. Additionally, you must comply with all applicable laws and regulations, including filing taxes and reporting any changes in your address or marital status. Adhering to these requirements is essential to retain your permanent resident status and continue enjoying the benefits it provides.

Path to Citizenship Canada

After fulfilling the residency obligation and maintaining your permanent resident status, you may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship. To qualify, you must have been a permanent resident for at least 1,095 days within the four years preceding your application. Additionally, you need to demonstrate a good understanding of English or French and have knowledge of Canada’s history, values, and institutions. Becoming a Canadian citizen is a significant milestone that grants you the right to vote, run for political office, and obtain a Canadian passport, further integrating you into the fabric of Canadian society.

Conclusion

Getting PR in Ontario is a multi-step process that requires careful planning and organization. By understanding your options and following these steps, you can significantly improve your chances of receiving an invitation to become a permanent resident in this beautiful province.

As a fully dedicated Employer of Record, Path to Canada is uniquely positioned to support candidates navigating the OINP Job Offer Stream. Our expertise and resources ensure a smooth and efficient process, from the initial expression of interest to securing permanent residence.

Path to Canada can also assist candidates in including their common-law partner among family members considered in various eligibility criteria for the OINP.

Take the Next Step

Contact Path to Canada today to learn how we can assist you in successfully navigating the OINP process and securing your future in Ontario. Our team is ready to provide the support and guidance you need to achieve your immigration goals.