Introduction:
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) International Student Stream provides international students with a job offer in Ontario the opportunity to apply for permanent residence in the province. This stream is designed to attract and retain highly skilled international students who can contribute to Ontario’s economy. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to apply and qualify for the OINP International Student Stream.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the OINP International Student Stream, you must meet the following criteria:
- Have a job offer in Ontario from an employer in a skilled occupation at TEER (Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities) category 0, 1, 2 or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
- Register in the OINP’s Expression of Interest System and receive an invitation to apply.
- Have a valid job offer at the time of application.
- Meet the language requirements, which include a minimum score of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or French for NOC 0 and A jobs, and CLB 5 for NOC B jobs.
- Have a valid work permit at the time of application.
- Have graduated from an eligible Canadian post-secondary institution with a degree, diploma or certificate.
- Have legal status in Canada at the time of application.
- Intend to live in Ontario after being granted permanent residence.
Application Process:
The OINP International Student Stream application process involves the following steps:
- Register an Expression of Interest (EOI) in the OINP’s online system. You will be assigned points based on factors such as your education, work experience, and language proficiency.
- If you are invited to apply, you will have 45 calendar days to submit a complete application.
- Submit all required documents, including your valid job offer, language test results, and proof of education and work experience.
- Pay the required application fee, which is currently CAD $1,500.
- Wait for the OINP to review your application. If approved, you will receive a nomination for permanent residence.
- After receiving a nomination, you must apply to the federal government through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence.
Job Offer Requirements:
The job offer must meet the following requirements:
- Be in a skilled occupation at TEER category 0, 1, 2 or 3 of the NOC.
- Be for a full-time and permanent position.
- Be from an employer that meets the revenue requirements for the most recently completed fiscal year.
- Meet the wage requirements, which are based on the low wage level for the occupation in the specific region of Ontario where you will be working.
- Be from an employer that has a legal business in Ontario and has been operating for at least three years.
- Not affect the employment of a person involved in a labor dispute.
Language Requirements:
The language requirements for the OINP International Student Stream are as follows:
- For NOC 0 and A jobs, a minimum score of CLB 7 in English or French is required.
- For NOC B jobs, a minimum score of CLB 5 in English or French is required.
Education Requirements:
To be eligible for the OINP International Student Stream, you must have graduated from an eligible Canadian post-secondary institution with a degree, diploma or certificate. You must also prove that more than half of the requirements necessary to obtain your credential were obtained while living and studying in Canada.
Conclusion:
The OINP International Student Stream provides international students with a job offer in Ontario the opportunity to apply for permanent residence in the province. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of success in the application process. Remember to meet the eligibility criteria, submit a complete application, and provide all required documents and fees. Good luck!