Ontario launches three new pathways to permanent residence
Key takeaways
- Ontario has introduced three new pathways for permanent residence as of June 26, 2026.
- The new pathways target higher-skilled workers, lower-skilled workers, and self-employed physicians.
- Foreign nationals must wait for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) to re-launch its Expression of Interest system to apply.
- Additional streams are planned for the future, focusing on healthcare, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent.
On June 26, 2026, Ontario announced the launch of three new pathways to permanent residence as part of its updated provincial immigration program. This change aims to attract a broader range of skilled workers to address labor market demands. For more details, you can read the full announcement here.
The three pathways introduced are the TEER 0–3 pathway for workers in higher-skilled occupations, the TEER 4–5 pathway for those in lower-skilled jobs, and a pathway for self-employed physicians who are registered to bill through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). These pathways are effective immediately, allowing eligible foreign nationals to apply for provincial nomination.
Overview of the new pathways to permanent residence in Ontario
The new pathways include:
TEER 0–3 pathway: This pathway is available to foreign nationals with job offers in occupations that require some post-secondary education or training. Candidates need a full-time, permanent job offer from an eligible Ontario employer in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation.
TEER 4–5 pathway: This pathway focuses on lower-skilled workers, enabling them to apply for provincial nomination if they fulfill specific employment-related requirements.
Self-employed physicians: This pathway is intended for registered physicians who are authorized to bill OHIP.
Eligibility criteria for Ontario's new immigration pathways
Eligibility for these pathways varies by stream. For the TEER 0–3 pathway, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Job offer: A full-time, permanent job offer from an eligible Ontario employer.
- Language proficiency: Candidates must show minimum language proficiency in English or French (CLB 5 or CLB 6).
- Education and work experience: Candidates must have a post-secondary degree or diploma along with relevant work experience.
For the TEER 4–5 pathway, the requirements are similar but tailored for lower-skilled occupations. Self-employed physicians must already be registered to practice in Ontario.
Next steps for applicants
Foreign nationals interested in these new pathways should prepare for the re-launch of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program's Expression of Interest (EOI) system, which is expected to open later this summer. It is crucial to stay updated on the specific requirements for each pathway and ensure that all documentation is ready.
For those who have already submitted applications under the previous pathways, the OINP will continue processing these applications according to the earlier requirements. This ensures that candidates who have begun their application process will not be negatively impacted by the changes.
As Ontario continues to adapt its immigration strategies, applicants should monitor upcoming announcements regarding additional streams, particularly those focused on healthcare, entrepreneurship, and exceptional talent. Staying informed will help candidates navigate the competitive immigration landscape.
For further information on the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program and its new pathways, visit the Permanent Residence Portal.
Official current rules are at canada.ca; this guide is independent reference content.