Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program 2026 Allocation Sees Significant Increase
Last Updated On 10 February 2026, 10:36 AM EST (Toronto Time)
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has received a substantial 2026 nomination allocation from the federal government, showing a notable recovery from the previous year’s reductions.
Ontario’s 2026 allocation has been set at 14,119 nominations, marking a 31% rise from the 2025 total of 10,750 nominations.
What sets this year’s allocation apart is not just the increase in quota but also Ontario’s clear priorities indicated through the initial OINP 2026 draws and proposed program restructuring. This provides candidates with insights into the occupations and worker profiles the province aims to focus on this year.
For temporary residents, international students, and immigration professionals advising clients, understanding Ontario’s 2026 priorities can enhance their chances of being selected.
Significance of the 2026 Allocation
Ontario’s 14,119 nominations for 2026 mark a partial recovery from the significant 50% reduction experienced in 2025. In 2024, Ontario had 21,500 nomination spaces before the federal government cut provincial allocations nationwide.
This year’s allocation represents around 67% of the 2024 capacity, with expectations of further increases as the year progresses. This increase aligns with Canada’s revised Immigration Levels Plan, aiming for 91,500 Provincial Nominee Program admissions in 2026, a 66% surge from the previous target of 55,000.
While Ontario receives a larger allocation due to its population size, more nominations do not guarantee easier pathways for all candidates. The province’s recent draws and proposed changes indicate a strategic use of nominations, focusing on specific sectors with labor shortages rather than broad invitations.
Anticipated Beneficiaries of OINP in 2026
Based on the early 2026 draws and Ontario’s priorities, certain worker categories are set to benefit most from this year’s increased allocation.
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- Healthcare Professionals: Healthcare workers, ranging from physicians to nursing aides, received a majority of invitations in early 2026 draws, emphasizing Ontario’s priority on addressing the healthcare system’s staffing crisis.
The province is actively seeking healthcare workers across various settings, including hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, and community health services, as evidenced by the recent eligibility changes for self-employed physicians in January 2026.
