Ontario Issues New PR Invitations for International Graduates
Ontario Holds New OINP Draw for International Graduates
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program issued 918 permanent residence invitations in a new draw held on April 22, 2026, targeting international graduates who completed Master’s or PhD degrees from eligible Ontario universities.
Specifically, the invitations were divided between two streams:
- Masters Graduate Stream: 674 invitations
- PhD Graduate Stream: 244 invitations
Overall, this draw creates another opportunity for international graduates seeking Canadian permanent residence through Ontario.
Second Graduate Draw of 2026
Notably, this is the second time Ontario has opened these graduate streams in 2026.
After remaining inactive throughout 2025, these pathways returned in the March 18 draws. Now, this latest round further confirms that Ontario continues to invite graduates through these streams.
Ontario PNP Draw Details – April 22, 2026
Masters Graduate Stream
- Invitations Issued: 674
- Minimum EOI Score: 61
- Application Deadline: 14 calendar days
- File Prefix: NMAS
PhD Graduate Stream
- Invitations Issued: 244
- Minimum EOI Score: 56
- Application Deadline: 14 calendar days
- File Prefix: NPHD
Interestingly, the PhD stream had a lower score cut-off, likely because fewer doctoral candidates are in the pool.
Who Was Eligible for This Draw?
To receive an invitation, candidates needed to:
- Be currently living in Canada
- Hold a valid work or study permit
- Have an active Expression of Interest profile created between April 22, 2025 and April 20, 2026
- Meet eligibility requirements for either graduate stream
- Graduated from an eligible Ontario university
In simple terms, Ontario targeted international graduates already living legally in Canada.
These Streams Are Different From Express Entry
Importantly, these graduate streams do not align with Express Entry.
Instead, candidates first apply through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. Afterward, successful nominees move toward permanent residence through the federal process.
As a result, many candidates see this as an alternative PR pathway, especially when Express Entry CRS scores remain high.
What Invited Candidates Should Do Next
If you received an invitation, act quickly because applications must be submitted within 14 calendar days.
Next Steps
- Log into the OINP e-Filing Portal
- Find your file number (NMAS or NPHD)
- Review stream requirements carefully
- Gather supporting documents
- Submit your complete application and fees before the deadline
Most importantly, do not miss the deadline, because Ontario does not grant extensions.
Why This Draw Matters
1. These Streams Could Be Removed Soon
Ontario plans to redesign its immigration program for May 30, 2026. Because of this, these graduate streams could change or even disappear.
Therefore, this draw may be one of the final opportunities under current rules.
2. A Valuable Alternative PR Pathway
At the same time, these streams provide another PR route while Express Entry scores remain high.
Better yet, applicants do not need:
- A job offer
- Employer sponsorship
Because of this, these pathways remain attractive for many international graduates.
Ontario Has Issued Over 5,800 Invitations in April
With today’s draw, Ontario has now issued more than 5,800 invitations in April 2026 alone.
Earlier draws targeted:
- Mining occupations
- Healthcare workers
- Regional development candidates
- In-Demand Skills applicants
As a result, April is shaping up to be one of the busiest months in OINP history.
Key Takeaways
- Ontario issued 918 invitations in the latest OINP draw
- 674 invitations went to Master’s graduates
- 244 invitations went to PhD graduates
- Minimum scores were 61 and 56
- Candidates must be in Canada with a valid status
- Applications must be submitted within 14 days
- These streams may change after May 30, 2026
Final Thoughts
Overall, Ontario’s latest draw shows the province is moving quickly before major immigration changes take effect.
Moreover, the Master’s and PhD Graduate streams remain one of the most direct PR pathways for international graduates without requiring a job offer.
However, potential program changes may narrow this opportunity. Therefore, invited candidates should act fast, while others in the pool should stay prepared for future rounds.
Get in touch with SPS Global
Receive advice on any of your questions regarding immigration. Get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
