Ontario updates OINP application rules; Canada rental prices ease as immigration slows; Bill C-12 sparks debate over immigration powers; Ontario tightens licence rules tied to status. Learn how these changes affect newcomers.
Ontario updates OINP criteria as Canada’s housing shift reshapes national immigration landscape
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program introduces new application review criteria
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) has implemented updated regulatory rules (effective October 31, 2025), allowing program officers to consider additional decision-making factors before issuing nominations.
These updates provide Ontario with greater flexibility to prioritize applications that best align with evolving labour market needs. If an application is returned, applicants will receive a full refund and direct notification from OINP.
This change aims to streamline processing and support Ontario’s long-term workforce strategy.
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Free eligibility evaluation:
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Canada’s rental market begins cooling as immigration moderates
A noticeable shift in Canada’s rental housing landscape is emerging as lower immigration levels begin to ease nationwide housing demand.
Recent reports reveal that major metropolitan areas—including Toronto, Calgary, Montreal, Edmonton, and Metro Vancouver—have recorded year-over-year declines in rent prices for one-bedroom units.
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Toronto saw the sharpest drop: $176 decrease
Ontario experienced the highest immigration decline in early 2025, receiving 15,000 fewer newcomers than the year before.
However, the picture is mixed—Alberta gained nearly 13,000 new residents through interprovincial migration, keeping demand high. Atlantic provinces such as Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island are also seeing continued population growth, sustaining rental demand.
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Bill C-12 raises concerns over undefined federal immigration authority
Legislation tied to Canada’s border security—Bill C-12—has triggered debate over undefined ministerial powers to pause or revoke immigration applications during emergencies.
Immigration Minister Lena Diab asserted the flexibility is necessary to respond to unforeseen crises; however, Conservative critic Michelle Rempel Garner questioned safeguards preventing overreach.
More than 300 civil society organizations have called for withdrawal of the bill, warning that vague parameters could prompt mass immigration document cancellations without adequate legal protection.
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Ontario strengthens driver’s licence requirements linked to immigration status
Starting early 2026, Ontario will enforce new rules under Bill 60, linking driver’s licence eligibility to immigration and work authorization status.
Core changes include:
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Ministry of Transportation will verify immigration status before issuing or renewing licences
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Temporary visitors will no longer qualify for commercial licences
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One year of Canadian driving experience required for Class A licences
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Foreign licences from non-reciprocal countries lose automatic validity
The objectives of these measures are to improve road safety, prevent identity misuse, and ensure commercial drivers have verified authorization to work in Canada.
For newcomers seeking support with immigration documentation:
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Frequently Asked Questions
What changes were made to OINP?
OINP officials can now consider additional criteria and return applications—while issuing full refunds—if they do not meet provincial labour market priorities.
Why are rents falling in major cities?
Lower immigration levels and shifting interprovincial migration have decreased rental demand in Ontario and other major markets.
Why is Bill C-12 controversial?
The bill contains undefined provisions allowing the federal government to pause or revoke immigration applications in emergencies, raising concerns about oversight and civil rights.
How will Ontario’s new driver’s licence rules affect immigrants?
Eligibility will now depend on verified immigration status and work authorization; temporary visitors cannot obtain commercial licences.
Where can newcomers find guidance on immigration or study permits?
Go Canada Services offers academic, immigration, and settlement guidance with a free assessment option.
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