Ontario Invites 1,893 in Major Immigration Draw

Healthcare workers, tech professionals, and skilled tradespeople celebrate receiving invitations to apply for permanent residency through Ontario's latest immigration draws

On This Page You Will Find:

• Complete breakdown of September 3, 2025 OINP draws targeting 77 occupations
• Full list of priority occupations with highest demand in Ontario
• Exact score requirements and application deadlines you must meet
• Step-by-step process to secure your permanent residency nomination
• Insider tips to maximize your chances of receiving an invitation

Summary:

Maria Santos, a registered nurse from the Philippines, checked her email at 6 AM Toronto time on September 4, 2025, and found the message that would change her life forever: an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. She was one of 1,893 candidates invited through two massive draws targeting 77 critical occupations across healthcare, technology, construction, and administration. With scores as low as 42 for foreign workers and 63 for international students, these draws represent Ontario's most aggressive recruitment push in months, addressing severe labor shortages while offering thousands a direct path to Canadian permanent residency.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Ontario issued 1,893 ITAs on September 3, 2025, across Foreign Worker (1,134) and International Student (759) streams
• Score thresholds were remarkably low: 42+ for foreign workers, 63+ for international students
• All 77 targeted occupations span healthcare, tech, construction, and administrative roles with critical shortages
• Candidates have just 17 days to submit complete applications after receiving ITAs
• These draws ended a temporary halt from June 6 to August 28, signaling Ontario's renewed immigration focus

If you've been waiting for your chance to immigrate to Canada, September 3, 2025, might go down as one of the most significant dates in recent Ontario immigration history. The province issued 1,893 permanent residency invitations in a single day, targeting skilled workers and international students with job offers in 77 priority occupations.

This massive recruitment drive comes after Ontario paused its draws for nearly three months, from June 6 to August 28. The resumption signals the province's urgent need to fill critical labor gaps across multiple sectors, from hospitals desperately needing nurses to tech companies seeking software developers.

What makes these draws particularly exciting is the accessibility of the score requirements. Foreign workers needed just 42 points or higher, while international students required 63 points or above – significantly lower than many previous draws that often demanded scores in the 80s or 90s.

Breaking Down the September 3 Draws: Your Numbers Matter

The September 3 draws weren't random selections – they were strategic moves targeting specific streams under Ontario's Employer Job Offer category. Here's exactly what happened:

Foreign Worker Stream Results:

• Invitations issued: 1,134
• Score range: 42 and above
• Profile creation period: July 2 to September 3, 2025
• Target: Experienced workers with job offers in 77 priority occupations

International Student Stream Results:

• Invitations issued: 759
• Score range: 63 and above
• Profile creation period: July 2 to September 3, 2025
• Target: Recent graduates with job offers in the same 77 occupations

The higher score threshold for international students (63 vs. 42) reflects the competitive advantage these candidates have through their Canadian education and familiarity with the local job market. However, both thresholds remain remarkably accessible compared to Express Entry draws, which often require scores above 480.

These draws follow an impressive pattern. Just one day earlier, on September 2, Ontario had already issued 2,643 invitations, bringing the two-day total to 4,536 ITAs – one of the largest back-to-back recruitment efforts in OINP history.

The Complete List: 77 Priority Occupations Driving Ontario's Economy

Understanding which occupations made the cut is crucial for your immigration strategy. These 77 National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes weren't chosen randomly – they represent Ontario's most pressing labor shortages across key economic sectors.

Healthcare: Where Demand Exceeds Supply

Ontario's healthcare system faces unprecedented challenges, making these roles among the most sought-after:

Management and Professional Roles:

• NOC 30010 — Managers in health care: Leading hospitals and clinics through post-pandemic recovery
• NOC 31120 — Pharmacists: Addressing medication management in an aging population
• NOC 31200 — Psychologists: Meeting growing mental health demands
• NOC 31202 — Physiotherapists: Supporting rehabilitation services
• NOC 31203 — Occupational therapists: Helping patients regain independence

Technical and Support Positions:

• NOC 32100 — Opticians: Serving vision care needs across the province
• NOC 32103 — Respiratory therapists: Critical for ongoing COVID-19 care
• NOC 32110 — Denturists: Providing essential dental prosthetic services
• NOC 32111 — Dental hygienists and dental therapists: Promoting oral health
• NOC 32121 — Medical radiation technologists: Operating life-saving imaging equipment
• NOC 32122 — Medical sonographers: Performing diagnostic ultrasounds
• NOC 32123 — Cardiology technologists: Diagnosing heart conditions

If you're a healthcare professional, your chances of receiving an invitation remain exceptionally high. Ontario's aging population and healthcare worker shortages create consistent demand across all levels, from managers to support staff.

Technology and Engineering: Powering Innovation

Ontario's tech sector, centered in Toronto and Waterloo, drives demand for these specialized roles:

Leadership Positions:

• NOC 20012 — Computer and information systems managers: Overseeing digital transformation
• NOC 20010 — Engineering managers: Leading infrastructure and innovation projects
• NOC 20011 — Architecture and science managers: Directing research and development

Technical Specialists:

• NOC 21222 — Information systems specialists: Developing software solutions for businesses
• NOC 21311 — Computer engineers: Building hardware systems for emerging technologies
• NOC 21100 — Physicists and astronomers: Contributing to latest research

The tech sector's recovery from pandemic-era layoffs has created renewed demand for skilled professionals, particularly those with experience in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.

Construction and Trades: Building Ontario's Future

Ontario's construction boom, fueled by population growth and infrastructure investment, creates opportunities for:

Management Roles:

• NOC 70010 — Construction managers: Leading major building projects
• NOC 70011 — Home building and renovation managers: Overseeing residential development
• NOC 70012 — Facility operation and maintenance managers: Managing commercial properties

Supervisory Positions:

• NOC 72010 — Contractors and supervisors, machining and metal trades
• NOC 72011 — Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades
• NOC 72013 — Contractors and supervisors, carpentry trades
• NOC 72014 — Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades

Skilled Trades:

• NOC 73101 — Tilesetters: Installing finishes in new constructions
• NOC 73112 — Painters and decorators: Completing building projects
• NOC 73201 — General maintenance workers: Maintaining Ontario's growing infrastructure

Administrative and Business Services: The Economic Backbone

Every sector needs strong administrative support, making these roles consistently in demand:

Management Positions:

• NOC 10011 — Human resources managers: Navigating complex labor markets
• NOC 10012 — Purchasing managers: Managing supply chain disruptions
• NOC 10020 — Insurance, real estate and financial brokerage managers: Supporting Toronto's financial sector

Professional Services:

• NOC 11200 — Human resources professionals: Developing workplace policies
• NOC 12101 — Human resources and recruitment officers: Addressing talent shortages
• NOC 12102 — Procurement and purchasing agents: Negotiating cost-effective contracts
• NOC 12103 — Conference and event planners: Reviving Ontario's tourism industry

Support Roles:

• NOC 12100 — Executive assistants: Supporting senior management
• NOC 13100 — Administrative officers: Handling day-to-day operations
• NOC 13112 — Medical administrative assistants: Supporting healthcare delivery

Creative Industries and Education: Cultural and Social Infrastructure

Toronto's position as Canada's entertainment capital drives demand for:

Media and Creative Roles:

• NOC 51110 — Editors: Refining content for publishing and digital media
• NOC 51113 — Journalists: Reporting news and stories
• NOC 51120 — Producers, directors, choreographers: Creating entertainment content
• NOC 52110 — Film and video camera operators: Supporting Ontario's film industry

Education and Social Services:

• NOC 40020 — Administrators – post-secondary education: Managing colleges and universities
• NOC 40030 — Managers in social, community and correctional services: Overseeing community programs
• NOC 41301 — Therapists in counselling: Providing mental health support

Your Pathway Through the Employer Job Offer Streams

Understanding these streams is crucial because they don't require an Express Entry profile – they're direct pathways to Ontario nomination based on your job offer and qualifications.

Foreign Worker Stream: Your Experience Opens Doors

This stream targets skilled workers with proven experience in their field. Here's what you need to qualify:

Experience Requirements:

• At least two years of relevant work experience in your occupation
• One year minimum for regulated professions (like nursing or engineering)
• Experience must be in NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3

Job Offer Specifications:

• Full-time position (minimum 37.5 hours per week)
• Permanent or minimum two-year contract
• Wage at or above the median for your occupation in Ontario
• Must be in one of the 77 targeted occupations for these draws

Language and Education:

• Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 or higher in English or French
• Educational credentials equivalent to Canadian standards
• Additional points for ties to Ontario (previous work, study, or family connections)

The scoring system rewards candidates with stronger qualifications, but the September 3 draw's minimum of 42 points shows Ontario's commitment to filling positions quickly.

International Student Stream: Your Education Advantage

Recent graduates have a unique advantage through this stream, which recognizes the value of Canadian education and local job market familiarity.

Education Requirements:

• Full-time program completion at an eligible Canadian institution
• Minimum two years for most programs, one year for graduate studies
• International credentials from equivalent institutions also accepted
• Must have graduated within the last two years

Job Offer Criteria:

• Same requirements as Foreign Worker stream
• Full-time position in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
• Wage at or above median levels
• Must be in targeted occupation list

Competitive Advantages:

• Canadian education provides bonus points
• Familiarity with local job market and culture
• Often easier to secure job offers through co-op programs or networking
• Post-graduation work permit allows gaining Canadian experience

The higher score threshold (63 vs. 42) reflects this stream's competitiveness, but it's still significantly more accessible than Express Entry draws.

Your 17-Day Sprint: The Application Process That Determines Your Future

Receiving an ITA is exciting, but it's just the starting line. You have exactly 17 calendar days to submit a complete application – and every detail matters.

Days 1-3: Immediate Actions

Employer Responsibilities (14-day deadline): Your employer has an even tighter deadline – just 14 days to submit their job approval application through the Employer Portal. This includes:

• Confirming the job offer details match OINP requirements
• Proving the wage meets or exceeds median levels
• Demonstrating recruitment efforts to hire Canadians first
• Providing company financial information

Your Immediate Tasks:

• Confirm receipt of your ITA with both OINP and your employer
• Begin gathering required documents immediately
• Contact your employer to ensure they understand their 14-day deadline
• Start preparing your OINP e-Filing Portal application

Days 4-10: Document Assembly

This is where preparation pays off. You'll need:

Identity and Status Documents:

• Passport and travel documents
• Current work permit or study permit (if in Canada)
• Birth certificate and marriage certificate (if applicable)

Education Verification:

• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign credentials
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
• Professional licenses or certifications for regulated occupations

Language Proficiency:

• IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF results showing CLB 4 minimum
• Results must be less than two years old
• Higher scores improve your ranking for future draws

Work Experience Proof:

• Employment letters detailing duties, salary, and duration
• Pay stubs or tax documents
• Professional references from supervisors
• Proof of any Ontario connections (previous work, study, or family)

Job Offer Documentation:

• Detailed job offer letter meeting OINP specifications
• Employment contract if available
• Company registration and financial documents

Days 11-17: Final Submission

Quality Control Checklist:

• Every document translated by certified translator if not in English or French
• All forms completed accurately with consistent information
• Application fee payment ready ($1,500-$2,000 depending on stream)
• Spouse and dependent information if applicable

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Inconsistent employment dates across documents
• Missing signatures on official letters
• Incorrect NOC code classification
• Insufficient proof of funds for settlement
• Late submission due to technical issues

Pro Tips for Success:

• Submit 2-3 days before the deadline to avoid last-minute technical problems
• Keep digital and physical copies of everything
• Maintain communication with your employer throughout the process
• Consider hiring an immigration consultant for complex cases

After Submission: The Waiting Game

Once submitted, your application enters OINP's review process, typically taking 60-90 days. If approved, you receive a Provincial Nominee Certificate, which you then use to apply for permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The entire process from nomination to permanent residency typically takes 12-18 months, but the OINP nomination adds 600 points to your Express Entry profile if you choose to enter that system later.

Maximizing Your Chances: Strategic Insights for Future Success

Even if you missed these draws, understanding Ontario's patterns helps you prepare for future opportunities.

Geographic Strategy: Beyond the GTA

Ontario awards bonus points for job offers outside the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), encouraging regional economic development. Cities like Ottawa, London, Windsor, and Sudbury often have lower competition and higher success rates.

Consider these regional advantages:

• Lower cost of living compared to Toronto
• Often easier to secure job offers
• Bonus points in OINP scoring system
• Growing job markets with less competition
• Stronger community connections and support networks

Timing Your Application

OINP draws follow patterns based on labor market needs:

• Healthcare draws occur most frequently due to ongoing shortages
• Construction and trades draws peak during spring and summer building seasons
• Technology draws often follow major industry events or government initiatives
• Administrative roles see steady demand throughout the year

Building Your Profile Strength

While waiting for future draws, strengthen your candidacy:

Language Skills:

• Aim for CLB 7 or higher for maximum competitiveness
• Consider French language training for additional points
• Take recent tests to ensure results remain valid

Education Enhancement:

• Obtain Educational Credential Assessment for foreign credentials
• Consider additional Canadian certifications in your field
• Pursue professional licensing for regulated occupations

Work Experience:

• Gain Canadian experience through temporary work permits
• Build connections in your industry through networking
• Volunteer in professional associations to demonstrate community ties

Ontario Connections:

• Previous work or study in Ontario provides significant advantages
• Family connections can also boost your score
• Consider visiting Ontario for job interviews or networking events

The September 3, 2025 OINP draws represent more than just numbers – they're life-changing opportunities for 1,893 individuals and families ready to call Ontario home. From Maria Santos, the nurse from the Philippines, to software developers in India and construction managers in the UK, these invitations open doors to Canadian permanent residency and all the opportunities that come with it.

What makes these draws particularly significant is their timing and scope. After a three-month pause, Ontario's aggressive return to immigration recruitment signals the province's commitment to addressing critical labor shortages while building a diverse, skilled workforce for the future.

For the 1,893 candidates who received ITAs, the next 17 days will be crucial. Success depends on meticulous preparation, meeting tight deadlines, and ensuring every document tells the story of why you're the right fit for Ontario's economy and communities.

If you didn't receive an invitation this time, don't lose hope. These draws prove that Ontario continues to prioritize skilled immigration across 77 diverse occupations. Use this time to strengthen your profile, improve your language scores, and build connections in your target province.

Whether you're a healthcare professional ready to serve Ontario's aging population, a tech specialist eager to contribute to Canada's digital economy, or a skilled tradesperson prepared to build the province's future infrastructure, your opportunity may be just one draw away. Stay informed, stay prepared, and keep your Canadian dream alive.