If you’re in Canada and working in the tech industry, here is what you should know about the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) designed for tech workers:

The first step to become eligible for an invitation through the OINP Tech draw is to create a profile in Canada’s Express Entry system and have worked at least one year in one of the following occupations:

  • Computer and information systems managers (NOC 0213)
  • Computer engineers (NOC 2147)
  • Database analysts and data administrators (NOC 2172)
  • Software engineers and designers (NOC 2173)
  • Computer programmer and interactive media developers (NOC 2174)
  • Web designers and developers (NOC 2175)

 

Aside from the work experience requirement, the eligibility criteria include at least a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject to work experience, language proficiency in French or English, minimum amount of funds and intention to live in Ontario.

The OINP Tech Draws pull from the Express Entry pool of candidates, inviting eligible tech workers to apply for a provincial nomination from Ontario. Candidates need to have a profile in the Express Entry system and those who are eligible will receive the Notification of Interest (NOI) from Ontario.  If they are awarded the nomination from Ontario, they will automatically get an additional 600 CRS points toward their overall score. This award will ensure that they receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in a subsequent Express Entry draw. The Candidates nominated by Ontario under this program have 45 calendar days to submit their application for the provincial nomination.

The OINP held its largest draw of the year on July 29th. A total of 1,288 invitations went to candidates who may be eligible for the Express Entry Human Capital Priorities stream. They needed a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score between 463 and 477 in order to be invited.

Please refer to our LinkedIn page to get access to online webinars or articles posted on the most recent Canadian immigration updates. To discuss the details of your situation, please reach out to our office and we will gladly assist you.