OINP Expands Criteria for Returning Applications Before Nomination Issuance
October 31, 2025
The Government of Ontario has announced important regulatory changes to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP).
Under these new rules, the OINP now has broader authority to return applications before issuing a provincial nomination if an application no longer aligns with Ontario’s current labour market priorities.
🔹 What does this mean in practice?
Previously, OINP could only return applications for specific reasons — for example, missing documents or not meeting basic eligibility criteria.
With this amendment, the program can now return applications for a wider range of factors, such as:
- The occupation or skill set is no longer in demand in Ontario;
- The applicant’s profile does not reflect current labour market needs;
- The program needs to prioritize other applicant groups in response to new policy directions.
🔹 How does this affect applicants?
If your application is returned under these new provisions:
- You (or your representative) will receive official notification from the program;
- Your application fee will be fully refunded (100%).
However, keep in mind that once returned, your application will no longer be processed and no nomination will be issued. Applicants wishing to proceed must reapply under the updated eligibility and program priorities.
🔹 Why did Ontario make this change?
This adjustment allows the province to focus resources on applicants who best match current economic and labour needs, ensuring that each provincial nomination supports sectors where Ontario faces genuine labour shortages.
In essence, OINP aims to keep its nomination process strategic, adaptive, and aligned with real-time labour market conditions.
These changes are already in effect.
You can review the full amendment on Ontario’s e-Laws website:
👉 Ontario Regulation 421/17 – Approvals under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program and Other Matters
Applicants should regularly review OINP updates and ensure their profiles reflect Ontario’s current labour priorities. Staying informed is the best way to protect your application and improve your chances of success.
