Key Takeaways
- Ontario opened its new Workforce Priority Stream on August 4, 2026.
- The stream includes pathways for workers in TEER 0–3 and TEER 4–5 occupations, as well as eligible self-employed physicians.
- Most candidates need an eligible Ontario job offer connected to an employer submission.
- Expressions of Interest remain valid for up to 12 months.
- Invited candidates have 17 calendar days to submit a complete application.
- Ontario plans to introduce three additional immigration streams in a later phase.
Ontario has opened intake for its new Workforce Priority Stream, giving eligible foreign nationals another opportunity to pursue provincial nomination for permanent residence.
The province initially launched the stream in June 2026 as part of a broader overhaul of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. However, candidates could not enter the pool until the new Expression of Interest system became available.
As of August 4, eligible workers can create an Expression of Interest linked to a qualifying job offer submitted by an Ontario employer. Eligible self-employed physicians follow a separate initial process.
What Is the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream?
The Ontario Workforce Priority Stream is the first stream introduced under Ontario’s redesigned provincial immigration system. It replaces several pathways that the province closed in May 2026.
The stream contains three pathways:
- A TEER 0–3 pathway for workers in higher-skilled occupations
- A TEER 4–5 pathway for workers in occupations that may require secondary school education, job-specific training or short-term work demonstrations
- A pathway for eligible self-employed physicians registered to practise in Ontario
The TEER system classifies occupations according to their typical training, education, experience and responsibilities. A candidate’s occupation, job offer and qualifications must meet the requirements of the applicable pathway.
Receiving an Ontario nomination is not the same as receiving permanent residence. Successful nominees must still apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and meet federal requirements.
Who May Qualify Under the New Pathways?
Candidates under the TEER 0–3 and TEER 4–5 pathways generally require a full-time, permanent job offer from an eligible Ontario employer. The offered position must also meet applicable occupation, wage and employment requirements.
TEER 0–3 candidates may need to demonstrate:
- A qualifying job offer in a TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 occupation
- The required English or French language ability
- Eligible Ontario education or the necessary educational credentials
- Qualifying work experience
- Any licence or authorization required for the position
The TEER 4–5 pathway has different requirements. Candidates generally need:
- A full-time, permanent job offer in a TEER 4 or 5 occupation
- Wages that meet or exceed the applicable median wage
- At least nine months of eligible work experience with the employer
- A secondary school diploma or equivalent
- English or French ability at Canadian Language Benchmark 4 or higher
The physician pathway is intended for self-employed physicians who are licensed and in good standing in Ontario and eligible to bill through the Ontario Health Insurance Plan.
Meeting the minimum requirements allows a person to enter the selection process but does not guarantee an invitation or nomination.
What Comes Next for Ontario Immigration?
The Workforce Priority Stream represents the first phase of Ontario’s immigration program overhaul. The province also plans to introduce three more streams:
- A Priority Healthcare Stream for eligible healthcare professionals
- An Entrepreneur Stream for qualifying Ontario business owners
- An Exceptional Talent Stream for people with significant achievements in areas such as science, technology, academia, arts and culture
Ontario had not announced launch dates or complete eligibility criteria for these pathways when the Workforce Priority Stream opened. Prospective candidates should avoid relying on preliminary descriptions when making immigration decisions.
Those considering the current pathways should review their occupation, job offer, work experience, education and language results carefully. Employers must also confirm that they meet the program’s business, revenue, staffing and employment requirements.
Need Help With the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program?
The new Ontario Workforce Priority Stream introduces opportunities for workers across a broader range of occupations, but its employer-led process and short application deadlines require careful preparation.
Pilkington Immigration can help you assess your eligibility, understand the scoring system and determine whether your job offer meets the applicable requirements for Canadian immigration. We can also assist with Expression of Interest registration, employer documentation, provincial nomination applications and the federal permanent residence process.
Contact us to discuss your options under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program.
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