Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Immigrate to Canada

The provincial nominee program is another part of the Canadian immigration policy that caters directly to the provinces.

Over two hundred and fifty thousand people are expected to enter Canada and eventually obtain their permanent residency through the provincial nominee program between 2021 and 2023. 

With the gradual increment by the Canadian government of the provinces’ annual allocations for their provincial nominee program, it is set to be one of the fastest, most popular, and most effective means of immigrating to Canada.

Difference Between the Provincial Nominee Program and the Express Entry

Before proceeding, it is essential to note the difference between both programs. These differences are significant, especially for those considering migrating to Canada.

Both programs will lead you to Canada, but there are key differences. These fundamental differences include;

• PNP often require applicants to have been offered a job by a Canadian company approved by the Canadian government to hire foreign workers before being considered. In contrast, the express entry program does not require that at all.
• Another critical difference is that if an applicant gets permanent residency through the provincial nominee program, they’re often restricted to the province they get the permanent residence in, while for the express entry program, there’s the freedom to settle anywhere.

Who is Eligible for the Provincial Nominee Program?

Under Provincial Nominee Programs, provinces and territories in Canada can nominate individuals and families who wish to settle in their province or region based on criteria set by the province.

Each province and territory determines its eligibility criteria for Provincial Nominee Programs.

For example, one province might prioritize bringing in provincial nominees with experience in a specific occupation, while another might prioritize bringing in provincial nominees with French-language experience.

It depends on the needs of each particular province and territory.

Applicants must prove that they meet the set criteria before becoming a provincial nominee.

This will show that the applicant has the skills, education, and work experience to contribute positively to the local economy and society.

In addition, the province or territory will consider the application based on the needs of the specific province, as well as the applicant’s genuine intention to settle there.

How to Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program?

In Canada, all final immigration decisions are made by the federal government, not the provincial government.

For this reason, PNPs are a two-part process. First, you have to apply to the province for your provincial nomination.

Then, if the province approves you, you must submit a second application to the federal government for your Canadian permanent resident status.

Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply for your PNP of choice:

Then, find out your eligibility: Use the PNP Live Tracker to track available PNPs and determine your eligibility for the many options available.

Complete a Provincial Nominee Program Application

Submit your application to the province or territory.

Receive Your Provincial Nomination Certificate

If your application is complete and you are eligible, you will receive an official Provincial Nomination certificate, allowing you to continue to the next step.

Submit Your Permanent Residence Application

Apply to the federal government for Canadian permanent resident status. You could apply through Express Entry if nominated through an Express Entry-aligned PNP. Otherwise, you must submit a paper-based application.

Some PNP streams operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while other PNP streams require potential applicants to register an Expression of Interest first.

Further, some PNP streams work outside the federal Express Entry immigration system – known as “base” streams – while other PNP streams are aligned with Express Entry.