The OINP Master Graduate Stream and the OINP PhD graduate stream are the two pathways to permanent residency offered by the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. These programs are designed to provide a smooth transition from temporary to permanent residency. Candidates also benefited from the job market and excellent living standards offered by Ontario.

At Croyez Immigration, we specialise in assisting international graduates to apply for the OINP. Our consultants will take you through each step of the process. Here is a clear idea of the eligibility criteria, application process, benefits and the processing time for both the streams.

The OINP Master and PhD Graduate Streams

The Master's and PhD graduate streams under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program, OINP offer international graduates a pathway to permanent residency in Canada. They should have completed a master’s or PhD from a publicly funded university in Ontario. This stream does not require a job offer or work experience which makes it easier for graduates to apply. Graduates with any Masters degree can apply under the OINP master stream, but only doctoral graduates can apply under the OINP PhD graduate stream. Both streams allow eligible applicants to apply for provincial nomination. If it is successful they can apply for permanent residency through the express entry system.

Eligibility Criteria for the OINP Master and PhD Graduate Streams

Applicants should meet certain eligibility requirements to be eligible for the Master's Graduate Stream or PhD Graduate Stream. Some of the requirements shared by both streams are listed below.

Graduation from an Eligible Ontario University

• Applicants should have completed a Master’s degree in any stream from an eligible university in Ontario to apply under the master's graduate stream.
• Applicants should have completed a Master’s degree in doctoral stream from an eligible university in Ontario to apply under the master's graduate stream.

Valid Status in Canada

The application should be submitted legally in Canada. This means the applicant should hold a valid study permit, work permit or visitor visa at the time of application.

Language Proficiency

All applicants should prove their proficiency in English or French through language proficiency tests like IELTS or CELPIP. The usual CLB score of 7 should be obtained in reading, writing, listening and speaking.

Intent to Live in Ontario

As both streams are Ontario-specific, the applicant should have the intent to live and work in Ontario after receiving permanent residency.

No Job Offer or Work Experience Requirement

Both streams do not require a job offer or work experience making it easily accessible for graduates and international students with a PhD.

Application Deadline

The application should be submitted within two years of graduation. If it is more than two years, applicants cannot apply under this stream.

Application Process for the OINP Master and PhD Graduate Streams

The OINP Master and PhD Graduate streams have the same application process. The process is simple and involves many important steps. Below is the process of applying for both streams.

Create an OINP Profile

The application process begins with creating an online profile with the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. The applicant has to provide certain personal information, educational details and language test results in this profile. It is important to make sure that all the information provided in this profile is accurate, as this is the first step considered for nomination.

Receive an Invitation to Apply

After successfully submitting the profile, it will be reviewed by the OINP and they will determine if the applicant meets the eligibility requirements. If the applicant is eligible, they will receive an Invitation to Apply known as ITA for nomination from Ontario. This is considered an official invitation to apply for PR through the provincial nominee program.

Submit Application for Nomination

The applicant can proceed with applying for nomination once the ITA is received. The application will include documents such as educational proof, language test results and information about the status of the applicant in Canada. It is important to submit all the documents required with accuracy and within the provided timelines.

Ontario Nomination

The applicant will be nominated by OINP for permanent residency if the application is approved. This nomination is an essential part of the application as it allows the applicants to apply for permanent residency under the Express Entry System.

Apply for Permanent Residency

Once the notification is received, the applicant can apply for permanent residency through the Express Entry system of Canada. This application includes the submission of the nomination certificate, medical exams, police certificates and financial documents. If the applicant receives the ITA from IRCC to apply for permanent residency, the application can be finalized.