Understanding Ontario’s employer-driven immigration system

What changed

Ontario opened its employer portal for the Ontario Workforce Priority stream on August 4, 2026. The process begins with the employer: the business registers, provides information about the position and submits the job offer before the candidate completes an expression of interest.

Once the employer submits the job offer, the candidate generally has 30 calendar days to register the related expression of interest. Registering is not the same as receiving an invitation, and an invitation is not a nomination. Each stage has its own eligibility and document requirements.

What employers should prepare

• Accurate corporate, revenue, payroll and workplace information.
• A genuine, permanent full-time position that meets the stream requirements.
• The correct occupation code, duties, work location and wage information.
• Records supporting the business and the need for the position.

What candidates should check

Candidates should not assume that a job offer alone makes them eligible. Work experience, licensing where applicable, legal status, education and the details entered by the employer must all be reviewed for consistency.

The employer and candidate submissions should describe the same real position. Differences in wage, duties, work location or employment dates can create delays or credibility concerns.

Ghasedak practical note

Before either party submits information, review the stream rules and assemble the supporting records. A rushed registration can be difficult to correct after deadlines begin to run. This article is general information; eligibility depends on the facts of the employer and candidate.