Immigration to Canada: Details on the Points System Update and Earnings History Factor for Work Experience

Important Update to the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program Points System

The province of Ontario has announced significant updates to the points system for the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The change, officially announced on October 7, 2026, became effective on October 5 of the same year. This regulatory adjustment aims to improve the opportunities for candidates who possess high annual incomes within the Canadian labor market.

Details of the New Points Schedule and Annual Income Criteria

Under the new amendment, the updated system grants candidates with an annual salary of $80,000 or more a total of 10 points for the earnings history factor related to work experience in Canada. Previously, the maximum cap awarded only 8 points to candidates with earnings of $70,000 or more.

The province has established a detailed schedule for the distribution of points based on annual income categories as follows:

$80,000 or more: 10 points.
$70,000 to $79,999: 8 points.
$50,000 to $69,999: 6 points.
$30,000 to $49,999: 4 points.
Less than $30,000: 0 points.

Application Mechanism and Proof of Income

Regarding the verification and accreditation mechanism, Ontario authorities rely on the Notice of Assessment issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) over the past five years to evaluate and calculate income. The province confirmed that this adjustment will be applied automatically, without the need for additional intervention, to all affected files and applications.

Impact of the Update on Nomination Chances

This increase in points is expected to help the relevant candidates improve their overall ranking within the province’s selection system. Practically, these higher points could increase the chances of receiving an official invitation to submit an application for provincial nomination, thereby facilitating their path to obtaining permanent residency in Canada under the new standards.