Immigration to Canada / April 10, 2026

Ontario invites 1,800 foreign workers and international students in latest draw

Ontario sent out 1,828 invitations to foreign workers and international students through a series of immigration draws held on April 8, 2026.

Ontario has invited 1,828 candidates to apply for provincial nomination in its latest immigration rounds held on April 8, 2026. The invitations went to foreign workers and international students across several streams, including healthcare, French-speaking applicants, regional areas, and physicians.

The draws formed part of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program, which helps employers fill labour gaps and supports newcomers seeking permanent residence.

To qualify, candidates needed to live in Canada and hold a valid work or study permit.

Healthcare draw leads with largest intake

Ontario issued most invitations through a healthcare and early childhood education draw, which sent out 1,635 invitations. The province focused on roles such as nursing, childcare, and healthcare support.

Officials lowered the minimum score for candidates in both the Foreign Worker and International Student streams. This move allowed more applicants to qualify and helped address ongoing staff shortages in essential services.

At the same time, the province narrowed the list of eligible roles slightly by removing some specialized healthcare positions.

French-speaking candidates also targeted

Ontario also held a draw for French-speaking candidates, issuing 146 invitations across three streams. The province selected candidates from a wide range of fields, including technology, trades, education, and healthcare.

The draw included positions such as home support workers, construction labourers, and food processing workers. Officials set different score requirements for each stream, depending on the type of job and experience.

Regional pilot supports smaller communities

Another draw focused on candidates with job offers in smaller communities through a regional pilot program. Ontario issued 32 invitations to applicants willing to work in Lanark, Leeds, and Grenville.

This program aims to bring skilled workers to areas outside major cities, where employers often struggle to find staff.

Physicians receive targeted invitations

Ontario also invited 15 physicians through a separate draw. The province selected candidates with job offers in specialized medical fields, including surgery and family medicine.

This step reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen healthcare services across the province.

What happens next

Employers must now review program guidelines and submit job details within 14 days of receiving an invitation. Candidates then have 17 days to complete their application.

Once approved by the province, successful applicants can apply for permanent residence through the federal system.

Changes expected soon

Ontario plans to introduce major changes to its immigration system. New rules set to take effect on May 30, 2026, will replace current streams, including those used in these draws.

Officials have not yet shared details about the new system or how current applicants may be affected.

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