The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has introduced new regulatory changes that expand the list of factors officials may consider before issuing a nomination. These updates, effective immediately, enhance the program’s ability to focus on applications that align with Ontario’s current labour market priorities.

The amended regulations allow the OINP to return certain applications prior to nomination when they do not meet evolving workforce needs. This adjustment gives the program greater flexibility to manage intake and prioritize candidates whose skills and experience support Ontario’s economic goals. The change builds on a previous round of amendments announced on July 2, 2025.

Applicants whose submissions are returned will receive a full refund of their application fees and will be notified directly by the program. The updated regulatory framework underscores Ontario’s ongoing efforts to streamline its immigration processes while ensuring that nominations reflect the province’s most pressing labour market demands.

The official regulation update can be viewed under Ontario Regulation 421/17 – Approvals under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program and Other Matters, available on Ontario’s e-Laws website.

Key Takeaways:

• Ontario updated OINP regulations as of October 31, 2025.
• Officials can now consider additional factors before issuing nominations.
• The goal is to prioritize applications that match Ontario’s labour market priorities.
• Applicants whose files are returned will receive a full refund and formal notification.
• This follows earlier OINP regulatory updates from July 2, 2025.

These updates highlight the province’s commitment to refining the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program to better support both newcomers and employers in Ontario’s fast-evolving economy.

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