The OINP International Student Stream is one of the most important OINP streams for many immigrants. This stream, part of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP), is designed to attract skilled international graduates who have completed their studies in Ontario and wish to contribute to the province’s workforce.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about the OINP International Student Stream, including eligibility requirements, the application process, recent draws, targeted draws, and frequently asked questions.
What is the OINP International Student Stream?
The OINP International Student Stream is an employer-driven immigration pathway under Ontario’s Employer Job Offer category. It allows Ontario employers to nominate international students with valid job offers in the province for permanent residency.
This stream is ideal for international students who have completed a degree or diploma from an eligible Ontario institution and have secured a job offer in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3).
Eligibility Requirements for OINP International Student Stream
To apply for the OINP International Student Stream, candidates must meet the following criteria:
1. Job Offer Requirements
- The job offer must be full-time and permanent (minimum of 1,560 hours per year and at least 30 hours per week). Check here to calculate Work Experience for Canada PR
- It must be in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.
- The position must be urgent and necessary for the employer’s business.
- The wage must be equal to or higher than the median wage in Ontario for that occupation, ensuring fair compensation.
- The job must be based in Ontario, and the employer should have a physical office in the province.
2. Education Requirements
- You must have completed a degree or diploma from an eligible Ontario post-secondary institution.
- The program must be at least two years if it leads to a diploma or degree.
- For one-year post-graduate programs, the requirement is a prior credential of at least one year.
- At least half of the studies must have been completed in Ontario.
- The institution must be a publicly funded college or university in Ontario.
3. Valid Work Permit
- You must have legal status in Canada (a valid study permit, work permit, or visitor record at the time of application).
- You must apply within two years of completing your studies.
- Applicants on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) are eligible to apply.
4. Employer Requirements
- The employer must be operating in Ontario for at least three years.
- The employer must have at least five full-time employees if located in Greater Toronto Area (GTA) or three employees if outside GTA.
- The employer must meet minimum revenue requirements:
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- $1 million for employers inside the GTA.
- $500,000 for employers outside the GTA.
- The employer must provide proof of recruitment efforts before hiring a foreign worker if required.
5. Intention to Reside in Ontario
- The applicant must demonstrate intent to live and work in Ontario through supporting documents such as lease agreements, employment history, and personal connections in the province.
- Candidates with previous work experience in Ontario or a history of studying in the province have a stronger case.
OINP International Student Stream Draws
The OINP International Student Stream operates through periodic invitation rounds where eligible candidates are invited based on criteria set by the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).
Recent OINP International Student Stream Draws
| Draw Date | Number of Invitations | Score Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| February 6, 2024 | 476 | 50 and above | Targeted draw for skilled trades |
| November 30, 2023 | 1,117 | 42 and above | General draw |
| September 19, 2023 | 1,529 | 40 and above | Targeted for health occupations |
| August 15, 2023 | 1,242 | 38 and above | General draw |
| June 5, 2023 | 1,130 | 37 and above | Targeted for STEM occupations |
These draws show a mix of general and targeted invitations, depending on labor market needs in Ontario.
Check here: Ontario PNP Points Calculator (Updated tool 2025)
Targeted Draws in OINP International Student Stream
Ontario conducts targeted draws within the OINP International Student Stream to prioritize applicants in specific in-demand occupations. These targeted draws focus on areas such as:
- Health care (Nurses, Physiotherapists, Medical Laboratory Technologists)
- STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
- Skilled Trades (Electricians, Plumbers, Welders)
- Education (Early Childhood Educators, Secondary School Teachers)
These targeted draws allow Ontario to attract skilled workers in sectors facing labor shortages.
How to Apply for OINP International Student Stream?
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Check Eligibility – Ensure you meet all job offer, education, and employer requirements.
- Register an Expression of Interest (EOI) – Create a profile in the OINP e-Filing Portal.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) – If selected, you will receive an ITA in your OINP profile.
- Submit a Complete Application – Upload all required documents and pay the application fee ($1,500 for outside GTA, $2,000 within GTA).
- Nomination by Ontario – If approved, you will receive a Provincial Nomination Certificate.
- Apply for PR – Use the nomination to apply for permanent residence through IRCC.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take to process the OINP International Student Stream application?
The processing time for OINP applications is 60-90 days, but PR processing through IRCC can take 6-12 months.
2. Can I apply without a job offer?
No, a valid job offer is a mandatory requirement.
3. Is there a minimum CRS score required?
No CRS score is required, but candidates are ranked based on the OINP points system.
4. Can I apply from outside Canada?
No, applicants must be in Canada with valid status when applying.
5. How often does OINP conduct draws?
OINP draws occur monthly, but frequency varies depending on program demand.
Conclusion
The OINP International Student Stream provides an excellent pathway for international graduates in Ontario to transition to permanent residence. By meeting eligibility requirements, securing a valid job offer, and applying strategically, candidates can enhance their chances of receiving an invitation.
