Ontario Increases 2026 Nomination Allocation Over Previous Year
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has announced an increase in its nomination allocation for 2026, surpassing the previous year’s numbers. The federal government has approved a total of 14,119 nominations for Ontario, a significant rise from the 10,750 nominations granted in 2025.
2026 Nomination Allocation Details
This year’s allocation represents a 31% increase compared to last year. The boost in nominations is attributed to the federal government’s increase in permanent residence (PR) admissions under Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which rose from 55,000 in 2025 to 91,500 in 2026.
Comparison to Previous Years
- 2026 Nominations: 14,119
- 2025 Nominations: 10,750
- 2024 Nominations: 21,500
Although Ontario’s 2026 allocation has improved, it still falls short of 2024’s levels. Currently, the province has only recaptured about 67% of its nominations from that year.
Recent Changes to the OINP
Through 2025, Ontario’s immigration program underwent various changes, including:
- Eligibility for Self-Employed Physicians: In January 2026, the criteria for the Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream were expanded to allow self-employed physicians with provisional certificates to apply.
- Suspension of Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream: In November 2025, the OINP suspended this stream due to compliance concerns.
- Introduction of an Electronic Employer Portal: This new system changed the intake process to employer-led applications.
- Reduced Eligibility for Early Childhood Educators: Education requirements were eased, allowing non-degree holders to qualify.
Streamlining the OINP
The Ontario government is also planning a significant redesign of the OINP. In a phased approach, the proposal involves consolidating existing streams into fewer pathways focused on healthcare, entrepreneurship, and exceptional talent. This restructure is expected to commence in 2026, pending regulatory approval.
As Ontario adjusts to its new nomination levels for 2026, interested applicants are encouraged to assess their eligibility for enhanced PNP streams to take advantage of these opportunities.
