September 17, 2024 — In a significant move to attract top-tier talent, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has issued invitations to apply for permanent residency to candidates under its Masters Graduate and PhD Graduate streams. The invitations were extended to candidates with Expression of Interest (EOI) scores as low as 53 for master’s graduates and 45 for PhD graduates, making this one of the most accessible draws in recent times.
Highlights of the Draw
- Masters Graduate Stream:
- Minimum EOI Score: 53 and above
- Who is Eligible: Candidates who received an invitation on September 17, 2024
- PhD Graduate Stream:
- Minimum EOI Score: 45 and above
- Who is Eligible: Candidates who received an invitation on September 17, 2024
Why This Draw is Significant
Ontario’s decision to lower the minimum EOI scores for these streams reflects the province’s commitment to retaining highly educated international graduates from its universities. By making the program more accessible, Ontario aims to:
- Boost Innovation: Leverage the advanced skills and research capabilities of master’s and PhD graduates.
- Fill Skill Gaps: Address labor shortages in specialized fields requiring advanced degrees.
- Enhance Economic Growth: Stimulate the economy through the contributions of skilled professionals.
How to Proceed if You Received an Invitation
Candidates who received an invitation on September 17, 2024, should take the following steps:
- Review Eligibility Criteria:
- Visit the Masters Graduate or PhD Graduate stream pages on the OINP website to ensure you meet all requirements.
- Prepare Necessary Documents:
- Consult the document checklists for your respective stream to gather all mandatory documents, such as transcripts, proof of residency in Ontario, and language test results.
- Submit Your Application:
- Log in to the OINP e-Filing Portal.
- Look for the new application file number with the prefix NMAS (for master’s graduates) or NPHD (for PhD graduates).
- Note that your new application file number is different from your EOI file number, which will appear greyed out—this is normal and not an error.
- No Need to Contact OINP:
- If you received an invitation, you do not need to reach out to the program unless you encounter issues during the application process.
Additional Facts and Insights
- Contribution to Ontario’s Workforce:
- International graduates contribute significantly to Ontario’s labor market, bringing diverse perspectives and advanced expertise.
- Retention of Talent:
- According to Statistics Canada, over 60% of international students plan to apply for permanent residency, making initiatives like this crucial for talent retention.
- Economic Impact:
- Retaining international graduates could add billions to Ontario’s economy over the next decade through innovation and entrepreneurship.
Eligibility Criteria at a Glance
Masters Graduate Stream
- Education: Must have completed a master’s degree from an eligible Ontario institution.
- Language Proficiency: Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7 in English or French.
- Residency in Ontario: Must have lived in Ontario for at least 12 cumulative months in the 24 months before applying.
- Settlement Funds: Demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and dependents.
PhD Graduate Stream
- Education: Must have completed at least two years of PhD studies at an eligible Ontario institution.
- Residency in Ontario: No residency requirement, but intent to reside in Ontario is necessary.
- Settlement Funds: Similar financial requirements as the master’s stream.
Application Tips
- Timely Submission: Applications are typically accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the intake limit is reached.
- Accuracy Matters: Ensure all information is accurate to avoid delays or refusal.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on your email and the OINP website for any updates or additional instructions.
What This Means for Future Applicants
The lowered EOI score thresholds suggest that Ontario is keen on attracting and retaining more international graduates. Those who have not yet entered the EOI pool are encouraged to:
- Create an EOI Profile: Increase your chances in future draws by entering the pool.
- Improve Your Score: Enhance language proficiency or gain additional work experience to boost your EOI score.
- Monitor OINP Updates: Stay updated on any changes to program criteria or application procedures.
Ontario’s latest invitation rounds for the Masters and PhD Graduate streams signal a welcoming environment for highly educated international students seeking to make the province their permanent home. With lowered EOI score requirements, now is an opportune time for eligible candidates to take the next step toward permanent residency.
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