Ontario Tech Draw – 2025 Guide
The Ontario Tech Draw is a targeted immigration pathway under the Human Capital Priorities Stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). It is designed to attract skilled tech professionals from the federal Express Entry pool who have experience in high-demand tech occupations.
Ontario conducts periodic Tech Draws to issue Notifications of Interest (NOIs) to candidates who meet the stream’s criteria and have backgrounds in fields such as software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. A provincial nomination through this stream gives candidates 600 additional CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply for permanent residency.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Ontario Tech Draw, you must meet the following criteria
1.Express Entry Profile
Must have an active Express Entry profile under the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class
2. Work Experience
At least 1 year of paid, continuous full-time work (or equivalent part-time) in a tech-related occupation, such as:
- Software engineers and designers (NOC 21231)
- Computer programmers and developers (NOC 21230)
- Web developers (NOC 21234)
- Data analysts and database analysts (NOC 21223)
- Cybersecurity specialists (NOC 21220)
- IT managers and related roles
3. Education
Post-secondary education (degree or diploma)
4. Language Skills
CLB 7 or higher in English or French
5. Intent to Reside in Ontario
Must demonstrate a genuine intention to live and work in Ontario
6. Settlement Funds
Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and your family, unless you are already working in Canada on a valid work permit.
How Does the Application Process Work?
Here’s a step-by-step guide
1. Create an Express Entry Profile
Make sure you’re eligible under FSW or CEC and include relevant NOC codes.
2. Wait for a Tech Draw Notification
Ontario regularly scans the Express Entry pool and issues Notifications of Interest (NOIs) to eligible tech candidates.
3. Receive NOI from Ontario
If you’re selected, you’ll get a notification in your IRCC Express Entry profile.
4. Apply to OINP
You have 45 calendar days to submit your application through Ontario’s e-Filing Portal.
5. Receive Nomination Certificate
If your application is approved, you’ll get a provincial nomination.
6. Apply for PR via Express Entry
If your application is approved, you’ll get a provincial nomination.
Application Fee and Processing Time
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OINP Application Fee:
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$1,500 CAD (as of 2025)
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OINP Processing Time:
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Typically 60–90 days
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IRCC Processing Time (PR):
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Usually 6–8 months after ITA
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Required Documents
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Valid Passport -
Education Credential Assessment -
Language Test Results -
Proof of Work Experience -
Endorsement Certificate From an Atlantic Province -
Proof of Settlement Funds
Official Application Page
To learn more about Ontario’s Tech Draw and apply when invited, visit:
🔗 https://www.ontario.ca/page/oinp-tech-draws
Federal Express Entry information:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a job offer to be selected?
No. Tech Draws are based on your work experience and Express Entry profile, not a job offer.
How do I know if I’ll be selected?
You must meet the OINP’s selection criteria and work in one of the targeted NOC codes. There is no way to apply directly; selection is based on Express Entry profile data.
How often are Tech Draws held?
They occur several times a year, depending on labor market needs and quota availability.
Can I apply without an Express Entry profile?
No. An active Express Entry profile is required to be considered.
Will I get 600 CRS points if nominated?
Yes. A provincial nomination guarantees 600 additional CRS points.
