This update is part of the Provincial nominee draws hub, with the Permanent residence guide. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program has boosted scores for candidates earning at least $80,000 per year. This change gives them a higher chance of being selected for provincial nomination for Canadian permanent residence. The adjustment was implemented on October 5, 2026, and announced on October 7, 2026, applying specifically to the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream.

Ontario announced on October 7, 2026, that top earning candidates now receive 10 points toward their score under the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream. This change, implemented on October 5, 2026, according to a notice on the provincial website, has been automatically applied to affected profiles. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program added a higher scoring bracket to the Canadian work experience earnings history factor.

The new top earning bracket of $80,000 or more awards 10 points. This is an increase from the previous top bracket of $70,000 or more, which awarded 8 points. Other brackets include $50,000 to $69,999 for 6 points and $30,000 to $49,999 for 4 points. The Ontario Workforce Priority Stream opened intake on August 4, its ranking system was unveiled on July 20, and it officially launched on June 26. All previous provincial permanent residence pathways were revoked on May 30, 2026, following an overhaul announced in December 2025.

The launch of the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream represents the first phase of an ongoing overhaul of how Ontario selects foreign nationals for provincial immigration. The province announced this comprehensive review in December 2025. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program had revoked all its previous provincial permanent residence pathways on May 30, 2026. The Ontario Workforce Priority Stream was officially launched on June 26, and its ranking system for candidates was unveiled on July 20. Intake for the stream opened on August 4 to eligible Ontario employers, workers, and self-employed physicians.

Candidates with higher scores are more likely to be selected by the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program to receive an invitation to apply for provincial nomination. Once nominated by the province, these candidates can apply to the federal government for Canadian permanent residence. This change specifically benefits candidates earning at least $80,000 per year, giving them a higher chance of selection.

The second phase of this ongoing overhaul is expected to include three other streams. These are the Priority Healthcare stream for healthcare workers in in demand occupations, the Entrepreneur Stream for owner operators of Ontario businesses, and the Exceptional Talent Stream for foreign nationals with exceptional achievements in domains such as academia, science, technology, and the creative or performing arts. No launch date for the second phase has been announced.

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program has adjusted its scoring system to prioritize higher earners under the Ontario Workforce Priority Stream, enhancing their chances for permanent residence.