On April 15, 2026, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issued 1,334 invitations to apply under the In-Demand Skills stream. This draw is significant as it targets individuals with job offers in essential occupations, addressing ongoing labor shortages in various sectors across Ontario.
This latest draw comes after two previous rounds within the same month, including a draw focused on the mining sector on April 1 and a multi-category draw on April 8. With today’s issuance, Ontario has delivered a total of 3,921 invitations in just the first half of April.
The In-Demand Skills stream particularly suits those with job offers in categories TEER 4 or 5, which typically do not qualify for the federal Express Entry system. This stream aims to fill workforce gaps in agriculture, food processing, manufacturing, construction labor, and public works maintenance.
Summary of the April 15, 2026 OINP In-Demand Skills Draw
This draw allocated invitations across two primary occupation categories:
-
- Agriculture-Related: 315 invitations, minimum score of 35
-
- Other Priority Occupations: 1,024 invitations, minimum score of 36
The minimal score difference between the two categories indicates that Ontario views both sectors as critical for addressing labor demands. The agriculture-related occupations included six eligible NOC codes, while the broader priority occupations covered an extensive list of 33 NOC codes.
Agriculture-Related Occupations
The agriculture-related portion of this draw targeted candidates with a job offer in one of six designated NOC codes:
-
- 84120 – Specialized livestock workers and farm machinery operators
-
- 85100 – Livestock laborers
-
- 85103 – Nursery and greenhouse laborers
-
- 94140 – Process control and machine operators, food and beverage processing
-
- 94141 – Industrial butchers and meat cutters, poultry preparers and related workers
-
- 95106 – Laborers in food and beverage processing
The agriculture sector has been experiencing significant workforce shortages, which have intensified in recent years. Many farms in Ontario are reliant on temporary foreign workers and international students for labor. This draw provides a pathway for these workers to transition from temporary to permanent residency.
Other Priority Occupations Targeted in This Draw
The draw also included an extensive list of 33 other priority occupations, which required a minimum score of 36. These occupations span various sectors, including:
-
- Manufacturing
-
- Construction support
-
- Logistics
-
- Public works
-
- Home care
-
- Industrial processing
Highlighting the manufacturing sector, numerous roles such as motor vehicle assemblers, mechanical assemblers, and industrial painters are included, reflecting Ontario’s status as Canada’s manufacturing hub. Additionally, roles in construction support and in-home care services are essential as the province addresses its growing labor needs.
Application Process and Deadlines for Invited Candidates
Candidates who received an invitation on April 15, 2026, must adhere to a structured application process. Key steps include:
-
- Review the Employer Job Offer In-Demand Skills stream page to confirm eligibility and prepare required documents.
-
- Your employer must submit their portion of the application within 14 calendar days from the invitation date.
-
- Submit your application and payment through the OINP e-Filing Portal within 17 calendar days from the invitation date.
It is crucial for candidates to inform their employers immediately upon receiving an invitation to ensure timely documentation and submission. The deadlines are strict, and any delay can result in the expiration of the invitation.
Nearly 4,000 Total OINP Invitations in April 2026
With the April 15 draw, Ontario sets itself on track to potentially surpass 5,000 or even 6,000 invitations by the end of April. The program has seen varied draws covering multiple sectors, including healthcare and agriculture, indicating a proactive approach to addressing labor shortages.
All candidates are advised to keep their OINP profiles updated and to frequently check the OINP Program Updates page for new draw announcements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can a candidate with a job offer in food processing apply under the agriculture category even though they work in a factory and not on a farm?
Yes, the agriculture-related category includes roles in food processing, such as process control and machine operators, which are considered part of the agricultural supply chain.
What is the difference between the In-Demand Skills stream and the Foreign Worker stream for candidates with a job offer in the same occupation?
The In-Demand Skills stream targets TEER 4 and 5 occupations, which require less formal education, while the Foreign Worker stream encompasses higher-skilled TEER 0, 1, 2, and 3 positions.
If a candidate’s OINP profile was created after the April 13 deadline, are they excluded from this draw?
Yes, profiles must be created by the specified deadline to be eligible for the draw. However, profiles remain active for future draws if they meet eligibility criteria.
How long will candidates have to wait after submitting their OINP application before receiving a decision on their provincial nomination?
The processing time can vary, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on application volumes. Candidates should ensure their applications are complete to avoid delays.
Reality Check
While the OINP draws provide valuable opportunities for candidates looking to gain permanent residency in Ontario, there are risks and limitations. Candidates should be mindful of strict deadlines and ensure their profiles are up to date. Changes in eligibility criteria or draw frequencies may occur, so it is essential to verify all information against the official OINP page for the most accurate and current guidance.
