| Stream | Invitations Issued | Minimum Score | NOC Codes | Target Audience |
|---|
| Foreign Worker | 372 | 56 | 14 | Skilled foreign workers with job offer |
| International Student | 355 | 85 | 15 | Ontario graduates with job offer |
| In-Demand Skills | 32 | 34 | 1 | Low-skilled workers in high-demand jobs |
｜DSML｜II. Targeted Occupations: Mining and Construction
⛏️ First Mining-Focused Draw Background: This marks the first time the OINP has held a draw specifically targeting mining sector occupations. While the OINP has previously targeted construction-related occupations, this draw represents a new direction. The shift comes amid growing federal investment in Northern Ontario’s mining sector.
💰 Federal Investment in Northern Ontario Mining: In March 2026, the Government of Canada announced an investment in mining research and development at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, aimed at expanding mineral exploration in the region. The mining and minerals sector supports over 700,000 jobs across Canada and contributes over $150 billion annually to national GDP.
⛏️ Core Mining Occupations
Mining Engineers · Geological Engineers
NOC 21330 (Mining Engineers) and NOC 21331 (Geological Engineers) are at the heart of this draw. With federal investment in Northern Ontario mining, demand for these professionals will continue to grow. Mining engineers design and manage mine operations, while geological engineers handle mineral exploration and resource assessment.
⚡ Engineering Occupations
Electrical Engineers · Chemical Technologists
NOC 21310 (Electrical and Electronics Engineers), NOC 22100 (Chemical Technologists), and NOC 22310 (Electrical Engineering Technologists) are essential support roles for mining and construction. These occupations are included in both Foreign Worker and International Student streams.
🔧 Trades Occupations
Welders · Industrial Mechanics · Heavy-Duty Mechanics
NOC 72106 (Welders), NOC 72400 (Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics), and NOC 72401 (Heavy-Duty Equipment Mechanics) are in high demand. The International Student stream also includes NOC 72201 (Industrial Electricians) and NOC 73400 (Heavy Equipment Operators).
📋 Management Occupations
Facility Managers · Manufacturing Managers
NOC 70012 (Facility Operation and Maintenance Managers) and NOC 90010 (Manufacturing Managers) are management-level positions included in this draw, suitable for experienced professionals.
III. Complete Occupation List (by NOC Code)
| NOC Code | Occupation Title | Foreign Worker | International Student | In-Demand Skills |
|---|
| 21310 | Electrical and Electronics Engineers | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 21330 | Mining Engineers | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 21331 | Geological Engineers | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 22100 | Chemical Technologists and Technicians | ✅ | ✅ | — | | 22101 | Geological and Mineral Technologists | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 22232 | Occupational Health and Safety Specialists | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 22302 | Industrial Engineering Technologists | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 22310 | Electrical Engineering Technologists | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 22312 | Industrial Instrument Technicians | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 70012 | Facility Operation and Maintenance Managers | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 72106 | Welders and Related Machine Operators | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 72201 | Industrial Electricians | — | ✅ | — |
| 72400 | Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 72401 | Heavy-Duty Equipment Mechanics | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 73400 | Heavy Equipment Operators | — | ✅ | — |
| 90010 | Manufacturing Managers | ✅ | ✅ | — |
| 94201 | Electronics Assemblers, Fabricators, Inspectors, Testers | — | — | ✅ |
IV. Application Process & Key Timelines
📋 Next Steps for Invited Candidates
1
Employer Submits Job Approval Application
The employer of an invited candidate must submit a complete job approval application within 14 calendar days of receiving the invitation. This is the first step in the OINP application process.
2
Candidate Submits OINP Application
After employer approval, candidates must submit their complete OINP application within 17 calendar days of receiving the ITA. Required documents include work experience proof, educational credentials, and language test results.
3
Receive Nomination Certificate
Upon OINP approval, candidates receive a provincial nomination certificate. This adds 600 points to their Express Entry CRS score or allows direct application to the federal government for permanent residence.
4
Apply for Permanent Residence
With the nomination certificate, candidates can apply to IRCC for permanent residence. Processing times for PNP applications typically range from 6 to 12 months.
V. ⚠️ OINP Major Changes Alert: May 30, 2026 Overhaul
🚨 Ontario Immigration Act Amendments: Legal changes to the Ontario Immigration Act will take effect on May 30, 2026, revoking all existing categories of applicants eligible for a certificate of nomination — including the Foreign Worker, International Student, and In-Demand Skills categories used in this draw.
The OINP has not yet confirmed when replacement streams will launch or whether existing candidates will be transitioned. This means that after May 30, 2026, Ontario’s PNP application rules will fundamentally change. Eligible candidates are advised to submit their applications as soon as possible.
📅 Effective Date
May 30, 2026
The legal changes to Ontario’s Immigration Act will take effect on this date, revoking all existing nomination categories.
❓ Unknowns
New Streams Not Yet Announced
The OINP has not confirmed when new streams will launch or how existing candidates will be过渡. Monitor the OINP website for updates.
⏰ Tight Timeline
Less Than 2 Months Remaining
Eligible candidates should submit their applications as soon as possible. After May 30, existing categories will no longer accept new applications.
💡 Strategy Tip
Act Before the Deadline
If your occupation is on the targeted list and you have a qualifying job offer, take immediate action to submit your application before the May 30 changes.
VI. Policy Background: Why Ontario is Targeting Mining
⛏️ Federal Investment in Northern Ontario Mining: In March 2026, the Government of Canada announced an investment in mining research and development at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, aimed at expanding mineral exploration in the region. This investment is part of Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy, designed to reduce reliance on other countries for rare earth and critical minerals.
💰 Economic Importance of Mining: According to the federal government, the mining and minerals sector supports over 700,000 jobs across Canada and contributes over $150 billion annually to national GDP. Northern Ontario’s mineral resources — including nickel, copper, cobalt, and lithium — are essential for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy industries.
🏗️ Construction and Mining Synergy: This draw targets both construction and mining occupations, reflecting their close connection. Mining project development requires construction workers, engineers, and technicians, while Northern Ontario infrastructure development also needs these professionals.
VII. IRCCGUIDE Strategy Recommendations: How to Seize the OINP Mining Draw Opportunity
🎯 Application Strategies for Different Profiles
1
Overseas Skilled Workers: Prioritize Foreign Worker Stream
If you have mining or construction work experience and a valid Ontario job offer, the Foreign Worker stream (minimum 56 points) is your best path. Confirm your occupation is among the 14 eligible NOC codes and prepare your application materials promptly.
2
Ontario Graduates: International Student Stream
If you completed your studies at an Ontario DLI and have a qualifying job offer in mining or construction, the International Student stream (minimum 85 points) is ideal. This stream covers 15 occupations, including industrial electricians and heavy equipment operators.
3
Lower-Skilled Workers: In-Demand Skills Stream
If you work in electronics assembly, fabrication, or inspection, the In-Demand Skills stream (minimum 34 points) offers the lowest score threshold. This stream currently targets NOC 94201 only.
4
Act Before May 30 Deadline
The Ontario Immigration Act amendments take effect on May 30, 2026, revoking existing nomination categories. If eligible, act immediately. Employers have 14 days for job approval; candidates have 17 days to submit their OINP application.
VIII. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the OINP Employer Job Offer stream?
The OINP Employer Job Offer stream requires candidates to have a full-time, permanent job offer from a qualifying Ontario employer. The employer must demonstrate that the position meets Ontario’s labor market requirements and cannot be filled by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. This draw covered the Foreign Worker, International Student, and In-Demand Skills sub-streams.
What were the minimum scores for this draw?
Foreign Worker stream: minimum 56 points; International Student stream: minimum 85 points; In-Demand Skills stream: minimum 34 points. Scores are based on education, work experience, language ability, wage level, and other factors in the EOI (Expression of Interest) system.
My occupation is not on the list. What can I do?
If your occupation is not on this list, consider: 1) Waiting for future OINP draws (which may target other occupations); 2) Exploring other provincial nominee programs; 3) Applying through Express Entry; 4) Improving language scores or gaining more work experience to increase your CRS score.
Will my application be affected by the May 30 changes?
If you submit a complete application before May 30, 2026, you will likely not be affected by the new rules. However, the OINP has not yet confirmed transition policies. Eligible candidates should apply as soon as possible to avoid uncertainty.
How can I find mining employers in Ontario?
You can find employers through: 1) Canadian job sites (Indeed, LinkedIn, Job Bank); 2) Ontario Mining Association member companies; 3) Research institutions like Lakehead University; 4) Mining industry job fairs. A valid job offer is required for OINP application.
How long does it take to get PR after nomination?
After receiving a provincial nomination certificate, federal PR processing typically takes 6-12 months. Through the Express Entry PNP category, processing can be as fast as 6 months.
📌 Conclusion: New Mining Pathway Opens, But May 30 Deadline Looms
The OINP’s first mining-focused draw represents a significant shift in Ontario’s immigration policy, directing nomination slots toward Northern Ontario’s mining and construction sectors. The 759 invitations demonstrate Ontario’s urgent need for these professionals. However, the May 30, 2026 immigration law amendments will revoke existing nomination categories, creating an紧迫 window for eligible candidates.
Five Key Takeaways:
1️⃣ First Mining-Focused Draw — OINP’s historic first mining draw issued 759 invitations
2️⃣ Three Streams Covered — Foreign Worker (56 points), International Student (85), In-Demand Skills (34)
3️⃣ Federal Investment Driving Demand — Government investing in Northern Ontario mining, creating jobs
4️⃣ Clear Occupation List — 17 NOC codes including mining engineers, welders, electricians
5️⃣ Urgent May 30 Deadline — Immigration law changes effective May 30, 2026 — apply now
One-Sentence Summary: OINP’s first mining-focused draw opens a new pathway for mining and construction professionals, but the May 30 immigration law amendments make timing critical — eligible candidates should act immediately before the changes take effect.
—— IRCCGUIDE · Data-Driven Immigration Insights
📚 Data Sources and Description
Primary Source: Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) April 1, 2026 draw results · CIC News April 4, 2026 report.
Data Period: Draw conducted April 1, 2026; results published April 4, 2026.
Occupation Classification: NOC 2021 version.
Amendment Information: Ontario Immigration Act changes take effect May 30, 2026. Monitor the OINP website for updates.
Disclaimer: This analysis is based on publicly available data and does not constitute legal advice. For specific applications, consult a regulated immigration consultant or lawyer.
