Dreaming of Moving to Canada? A Provincial Nomination Can Help You Get Permanent Residency!
If you wish to make Canada your new home, getting a Provincial Nomination could be your key to securing permanent residency. The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) lets Canadian provinces choose immigrants who fit their job market needs.
The PNP is a great option for people who find it hard to get permanent residency through the regular paths. This is especially helpful for those who have low scores in the federal Express Entry system or don’t qualify due to reasons like age, fewer work years, or lower education levels.
This guide will explain what the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are, how a nomination can add 600 points to your Express Entry score, the types of PNPs, and the steps to apply for them.
If you’re a skilled worker, entrepreneur, or student, read on to learn how the PNP could be your path to Canadian PR.
What is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in Canada?
The PNP lets Canadian provinces nominate people for permanent residency based on the specific job and population needs of that province. There are generally two main types of nominations:
1. Express Entry-aligned nomination: This type gives you 600 additional points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). These points can greatly improve your chances of getting invited to apply for permanent residency. [Click here for more details on how Express Entry works.]
2. Non-Express Entry-aligned nomination: This type is for people who don’t qualify for an Express Entry profile and allows them to apply directly for permanent residence. Processing time may be longer for this option.
Currently, the Express Entry cut-off score is high. PNPs help people in the Express Entry pool by adding 600 points, making it easier to get permanent residency. For those outside the Express Entry system, a provincial skilled immigrant program is another route to move to Canada.
The 10 Provinces and Their PNPs
Canada has 10 provinces, each with different ways to immigrate, but not all have PNPs. Here’s a look at the details and requirements of PNPs in each province.
1. Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
Ontario’s PNP helps the province meet job and economic needs by inviting skilled workers, international students, and entrepreneurs. You can qualify with a job offer from an Ontario employer, relevant work experience, or as an entrepreneur wanting to start or buy a business. Ontario has several streams for workers with needed skills, international graduates, and French-speaking skilled workers. You cannot apply directly; Ontario must pick you from the Express Entry pool.
2. Quebec Immigration Program
Quebec has its own program for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and investors due to a special agreement with the federal government. The Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP) uses a points system based on work experience, education, age, and language skills. Candidates must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Arrima portal. The Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) is for those who studied or worked in Quebec and have experience or a qualifying diploma, with both categories needing French language skills. Quebec also has entrepreneur and investor programs for those who meet financial and experience requirements.
3. Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
This PNP has streams for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates to support Nova Scotia’s economy. Some streams, like the Labour Market Priorities, choose candidates from the federal Express Entry pool. The Skilled Worker stream needs a full-time job offer from a Nova Scotia employer. The Occupations in Demand stream targets job shortages like nurse aides. Entrepreneurs and graduates must meet specific investment and experience criteria.
4. New Brunswick PNP
New Brunswick’s PNP is designed to fill job gaps and boost the economy by choosing qualified people who want to settle there. Different streams include the Skilled Worker Stream and Entrepreneurial Stream, each with specific requirements for work experience, education, and a commitment to living in the province.
5. Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
Manitoba’s PNP was the first in Canada and focuses on helping the local economy by selecting skilled workers and recent graduates. Applicants need to submit an Expression of Interest and may be invited based on their points.
6. British Columbia PNP (BC PNP)
BC’s PNP connects with the federal Express Entry system to speed up the process for skilled workers. It has several sub-categories for workers in high-demand jobs, healthcare, and international graduates. Most streams require a job offer from a BC employer.
7. Prince Edward Island PNP
PEI’s PNP helps the province find skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs. The Skilled Worker and Critical Worker streams focus on job offers in various fields, while the Business Impact Category requires an investment in a business.
8. Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
This PNP selects immigrants based on Saskatchewan’s job market needs. Applicants must score at least 60 points in areas like work experience and language skills. There are streams for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and students.
9. Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
This PNP helps Alberta meet its job needs and attract business owners. Streams include the Alberta Express Entry Stream and the Graduate Entrepreneur Stream, each with its own work and language requirements.
10. Newfoundland and Labrador PNP (NLPNP)
NLPNP targets skilled workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs who can contribute to the province. Applicants need to meet both provincial and federal rules to qualify.
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The 3 Territories and Their PNPs
Canada’s territories also offer some immigration options.
1. Northwest Territories PNP (NTNP)
The NTNP has streams for skilled workers and those with job offers from local employers. Each stream has specific criteria for work experience, language skills, and job offers.
2. Yukon PNP (YNP)
The YNP is for skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Applicants need a job offer from a Yukon employer and must meet language and experience requirements.
3. Nunavut
Nunavut doesn’t have a PNP, but skilled workers can still find job opportunities through direct applications to employers or by exploring options in neighboring territories.
Final Thoughts
If you think you may not qualify for federal programs, consider studying or working in a province that increases your chances for a nomination. Understanding the PNP requirements and choosing the right province can help you reach your goal of becoming a Canadian permanent resident.
