Ontario Issues 209 PR Invitations in Latest Express Entry Draw

On July 25, 2024, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issued 209 invitations for provincial nominations through the Express Entry system, specifically targeting the Human Capital Priorities (HCP) stream. This draw marks the sixth consecutive day that Ontario has reduced its eligibility requirements for candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

In this recent round, the OINP focused on Express Entry profiles from individuals who are interested in living in Ontario and have at least six months of experience in the occupation of general practitioners and family physicians (NOC 31102). This targeted approach is part of a broader strategy to address specific labour shortages in the province.

Candidates who received an invitation had their profiles created between July 25, 2023, and July 25, 2024, and needed to have a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score between 395 and 444 to qualify. The OINP has mandated that eligible candidates provide proof of at least six months of work experience in their primary NOC code to be evaluated under the Canadian Experience Class.

Successful candidates have 45 days to respond to their invitation and claim their provincial nomination. If approved, the provincial nomination will grant them an additional 600 CRS points, boosting their score to a maximum of 995 and potentially up to 1,044.

So far in 2024, the OINP has issued 10,038 notifications of interest (NOIs) across six HCP draws. This year, candidates with CRS scores as low as 352 have been invited, showing a broad range of opportunities for various applicants.

The July 25 draw specifically targeted general practitioners and family physicians, while previous draws this year included various healthcare and tech occupations. For instance, on July 18, 2024, the draw invited 1,240 candidates with CRS scores between 425 and 444, focusing on healthcare-related roles. Earlier draws in March and February also targeted different occupations, showing the OINP’s flexible approach to addressing labour market needs.

To be considered for an OINP Express Entry draw, candidates need a valid Express Entry profile indicating their intention to immigrate to Ontario. A separate OINP profile is not required as the program reviews existing Express Entry profiles and sends notifications of interest directly through the Express Entry system.

However, receiving a notification of interest does not guarantee eligibility or approval. Candidates are advised to carefully review the eligibility criteria and ensure their application meets all requirements before responding to the invitation.