What is PNP?
A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a specific immigration initiative within Canada, which comprises 13 provinces and territories, each possessing distinct immigration requirements. PNPs serve as localized immigration pathways that enable these regions to nominate individuals for immigration based on their unique demands.
At present, 11 provinces and territories operate active PNPs. Notably, the province of Quebec does not participate in PNPs; instead, it has established its own specialized immigration framework.
Certain PNP streams are connected to the Express Entry system, while others operate independently. Securing a nomination from a PNP that is aligned with Express Entry grants an applicant an additional 600 points to their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Am I qualified for a Provincial Nominee Program?
Provincial Nominee Programs allow Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals and families who aspire to establish their residence within a specific province or territory, based on criteria established by that province.
Each province and territory has the authority to define its own eligibility requirements for Provincial Nominee Programs. For instance, one province may focus on attracting provincial nominees with expertise in a particular field, while another may prioritize those with proficiency in the French language. The criteria are tailored to the unique needs of each province and territory.
To apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
To apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in Canada, it is essential to understand that the ultimate authority for immigration decisions lies with the federal government, rather than the provincial government. Consequently, the PNP prepare comprises of two particular phases. Initially, you must seek a provincial nomination by submitting an application to the relevant province. Upon receiving approval from the province, you will then need to file a second application with the federal government to obtain Canadian permanent resident status.
To successfully navigate the application process for your chosen PNP, please adhere to the following step-by-step guidelines:
- Assess your eligibility: Utilize the PNP Live Tracker to explore available PNPs and ascertain your eligibility for the various options presented.
- Complete the Provincial Nominee Program application: Submit your application to the appropriate province or territory.
- Obtain your Provincial Nomination certificate: If your application is thorough and you meet the eligibility criteria, you will be issued an official Provincial Nomination certificate, which will enable you to proceed to the next phase.
- Submit your application for permanent residence: Apply to the federal government for Canadian permanent resident status. If you have been nominated through an Express Entry-aligned PNP, you may apply via Express Entry; otherwise, a paper-based application is required.
It is important to note that some PNP streams operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others necessitate that prospective applicants first register an Expression of Interest. Additionally, certain PNP streams function independently of the federal Express Entry immigration system, referred to as “base” streams, while others are aligned with Express Entry.
To qualify as a provincial nominee, applicants must demonstrate that they fulfill the established criteria. This evidence must indicate that the applicant possesses the necessary skills, education, and work experience to contribute positively to the local economy and community. The area or region will assess the application in light of its particular prerequisites, as well as the applicant\’s earnest purposeful to dwell there.
Provincial Nominee Programs and Express Entry
Numerous provinces and territories offer streams linked to the federal Express Entry selection system, which provide \”enhanced\” nominations that grant nominees an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points.
A provincial nomination represents the most significant advantage within the CRS, effectively ensuring that the candidate will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in a future draw from the pool.
The CRS is a scoring system out of 1,200 assigned to candidates in the Express Entry program, determining eligibility for an ITA for permanent residency. In nearly every round of Express Entry draws, these 600 bonus points would secure the applicant an ITA.
Prospective candidates seeking to apply for a provincial nomination through an enhanced PNP stream must first establish an Express Entry profile and enter the pool.
What Provincial Nominee Programs are offered in Canada?
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP):
Ontario gloats one of the most differing and energetic Common Candidate Programs in Canada (OINP). It provides pathways for skilled workers, graduates, and business individuals seeking to immigrate to the province.
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP):
British Columbia presents a wide cluster of streams and categories inside its Common Candidate Program, catering to specialists, graduates, and entrepreneurs. This program includes categories that are aligned with Canada’s federal Express Entry immigration selection system.
Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP):
Alberta is a highly sought-after destination for new immigrants, offering streams for both Express Entry and non-Express Entry candidates. The Alberta Provincial Nominee Program is open to workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs looking to settle in the province.
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program:
The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program has experienced several modifications in recent years.
Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program:
This province in the Canadian Prairies aims to attract Express Entry candidates as well as workers in high-demand occupations.
Nova Scotia Nominee Program:
With numerous streams aligned with Express Entry and opportunities for graduates and entrepreneurs, Nova Scotia is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for newcomers.
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program:
The NBPNP highlights a well-regarded stream connected to Express Passage, along with openings for specialists with work offers and worker entrepreneurs.
Prince Edward Island Common Chosen One Program (PEI PNP):
The PEI PNP invites applications from Express Entry candidates, skilled workers, graduates, and business investors.
Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP):
The NLPNP gives Canadian movement pathways for Express Section candidates, graduates, laborers, and trade professionals.
The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP):
The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) offers a pathway for immigration if you possess a job offer in the northern region. There is a specific stream available for Express Entry candidates within the NTNP.
The Yukon Nominee Program (YNP):
The Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) actively seeks Express Entry candidates, skilled workers, and entrepreneurs to enhance the community and economy of the territory.
The duration of processing for Provincial Nominee Programs:
The duration of processing for Provincial Nominee Programs in Canada is significantly influenced by whether the application is submitted through an Express Entry-linked stream or through one of the alternative streams that are not associated with Express Entry.
Applicants should anticipate a processing timeframe for their initial application to the province, followed by an additional period for the final application to the federal government for permanent residency.
Many provinces have successfully reduced their processing times to a matter of months, or even weeks. For applications linked to Express Entry, the federal processing time typically remains around six months. In contrast, applications that are not linked to Express Entry, often referred to as paper-based applications, generally require a processing period of one to two years at the federal level.
