Ontario issues over 1,800 invites in first draws of the year!!

Ontario started its 2026 immigration year with a strong move to fill key jobs across the province. On February 2, the province issued 1,825 invitations to people who want to apply for provincial nomination. This marked the first round of selections this year under Ontario’s immigration program.

Focus on Jobs That Communities Need

Ontario ran six targeted draws in one day. The province aimed these draws at people with job offers from Ontario employers. Officials focused on areas where workers remain in short supply, especially health care and early learning.

Doctors received special attention in one draw. Other selections targeted people working in health-related roles and early childhood education. Ontario also selected candidates who plan to work in smaller communities through a regional initiative designed to support local economies.

Who Qualified for the Draws

Ontario reviewed profiles created between July 2, 2025, and January 28, 2026. The province selected candidates through three job-offer categories: foreign workers, international students, and in-demand skills workers.

Among foreign workers, Ontario invited physicians, health workers, early childhood educators, and a smaller group linked to regional development. International students also received many invitations, mainly for health and early learning jobs. A few candidates with in-demand skills gained invitations through the regional pathway.

Each draw had its own minimum score. Ontario adjusted these scores based on the type of job and the needs of employers.

Support for Smaller and Northern Regions

Several invitations went to candidates connected to a regional program that helps smaller and northern communities attract workers. This initiative supports employers who struggle to find staff locally.

Candidates qualified for this pathway only if they already met the rules of an employer job-offer stream. They also needed a full-time job offer in one of four regions: Lanark County, Leeds and Grenville, Sarnia-Lambton, or Thunder Bay. The province did not require a separate application for this regional focus.

What Invited Candidates Must Do Next

People who received an invitation now face an important deadline. They must submit a full application within 60 days. Ontario reviews each application carefully to confirm job offers, work experience, and other requirements.

Once Ontario approves an application, the candidate receives a provincial nomination. With that nomination, the person can then apply to the federal government for permanent residence in Canada.

A Busy Start to the Year

This first set of draws shows Ontario’s clear focus for 2026. The province wants to strengthen health care, support families through early learning, and help smaller communities grow. By starting the year with targeted invitations, Ontario aims to match newcomers with jobs that matter most to residents across the province.