At $1,080, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw is the 41st-cheapest of the 64 skilled-work visas Transita tracks, above the $545 median. Its 4.5-month average processing time ranks it 47th-fastest, quicker than 27% of the others.
What is the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw?
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw is Canada (Ontario)'s skilled worker visa programme and one of the most direct routes to permanent residence, typically achievable within 2 years. Ontario's tech draw no longer runs. Ontario states: "The OINP is changing. The new Ontario Workforce Priority stream has now launched, and all other streams are now closed." The stream that replaced it, Ontario Workforce Priority, "offers eligible skilled foreign workers with a qualifying job offer and work experience in any National Occupational Classification (NOC) occupation a pathway to apply to permanently live and work in Ontario", so it is an employer-first route with different requirements rather than a renamed tech draw.
Processing takes 3–6 months. The government fee is CAD 1,500 (≈ US$1,080), and the visa is valid for 2 years. This is a points-based system, meaning applicants are ranked competitively by score. A stronger profile improves your chances of selection.
To qualify, applicants generally need at least a Bachelor's degree and 2+ years of skilled work experience, along with a recognised language test result.
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw suits people working in tech and families relocating together.
Weighing Canada (Ontario) against another destination? See how it stacks up on visa speed, cost, and permanent residency:
See how the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw stacks up head-to-head against related pathways:
What are the requirements for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw?
A minimum Bachelor's degree, 2+ years of relevant work experience, a recognised language test result, a points score of 400 or above.
| Minimum education | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Work experience | 2+ years |
| Job offer required | No |
| Language test | Required |
| Points required | 400+ points |
official sources: OINP Tech · ontario.ca
Key facts
Best for
Path to permanent residence
Can lead to PR in approximately 2 years.
Validity period
2 years
Points-based system
Applicants are ranked by score. Higher points improve your chances.
Estimate your score with the CRS calculatorHow do you apply for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw?
- 01
Calculate your points score
Use the official Canada (Ontario) points calculator to estimate your score before investing time in the full application. A score of 400+ is needed.
- 02
Complete a language test
Book and sit a recognised English language test (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent). Scores are typically valid for two years, so time this carefully against your intended application date.
- 03
Gather your supporting documents
Compile educational credentials (minimum Bachelor's degree), employment history, passport, and any certificates. Have foreign documents officially translated.
- 04
Submit your OINP Tech application
File online through the official Canada (Ontario) immigration portal and pay the government fee of CAD 1,500 (≈ US$1,080). Double-check all forms for errors before submission. Mistakes cause delays.
- 05
Attend biometrics and medical (if required)
You may be asked to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) at an approved centre. Some visa categories also require a medical examination by an approved physician.
- 06
Receive decision (3–6 months)
Standard processing takes 3–6 months. Premium or expedited processing may be available for an additional fee. Avoid booking travel until you have a confirmed outcome.
How much does the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw cost?
The government application fee for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw is CAD 1,500 (≈ US$1,080). Total costs (including legal fees, document translations, medical exams, and biometrics) typically run 2–5x the base government fee.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw take to process?
Processing time for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw is typically 3–6 months from the date a complete application is received. Timelines vary depending on application volume, the completeness of your documents, and whether additional checks are requested. Check the official Canada (Ontario) immigration website for current processing times before applying.
Does the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw lead to permanent residence?
Yes. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw is one of the pathways to permanent residence in Canada (Ontario). Eligible holders can generally apply for PR after approximately 2 years of qualifying residence. Conditions apply, so consult a licensed immigration adviser for your specific situation.
Do I need a job offer for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw?
No. The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: Tech Draw does not require a prior job offer. You can apply based on your qualifications, work history, and points score. This makes it particularly attractive for applicants who want to move first and job-search on arrival.