What is PNP?
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is one of the pathways immigrants use to gain entry into Canadian permanent residency. This program is the fastest means of entry into Canada and has added to the provinces’ allocation over the years. In fact, more than 250,000 people are expected to process their permanent residency visas between 2021 and 2023 using the Provincial Nominee Program.
Who can apply?
The province determines this program as they will be the one to nominate the individual for permanent residency. The eligibility criteria are not fixed as they differ from province to province. Some provinces prioritize language proficiency to work experience while others do the other way.
If a candidate can show they meet the requirement set by the province, they can apply and expect to be nominated.
Note also that every PNP has other sub-programs that applicants can pass through to apply to the PNP umbrella body.
How can I Apply for PNP?
The application is straightforward as you need to apply, and if approved, the province nominate you. The nomination is made by the Canadian government, not the provincial government, and once they call you to apply, you need to process the PR application as soon as possible.
The following is the step-by-step guide to applying for PNP successfully.
Check if you are eligible by looking through the requirement
Continue the provincial nomination program and complete it
Wait for a certificate from the province
If you receive an application, submit the PR application to the Canadian federal government using a paper-based application (the paper application is only applicable if you didn’t go through Express entry).
Depending on the stream of PNP you apply through, you might be asked to apply through an express entry or the Federal express entry immigration system. In comparison, others might expect you to register an expression of interest.
Provincial Nominee Programs and Express Entry
Canadian provinces are mostly connected to the Federal express entry system, and any award from the province will give the nominees 600 CRS points to their already gotten score. This means being nominated will guarantee your ITA letter as the bonus point will exceed the expected CRS score.
What Provincial Nominee Programs
are available in Canada?
The following programs are the Provincial Nominee Programs available in the Canadian provinces. The only province with an exception is Quebec, which doesn’t have a PNP; it has a Skilled worker program for PR application.
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
Some OINP programs you will find in Ontario are available for business people, skilled workers, and graduates.
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)
There are various streams for graduates, entrepreneurs and workers under BCPNP. Interestingly, it also aligned with the Canadian Express entry; hence, the categories follow the streams.
Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
The AINP is also a popular stream option for entrepreneurs, workers and graduates. Note that you don’t need to be an express entry candidate for this program.
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program
This program has evolved many times and has some recent changes. Find out more before applying.
Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program
If you are a worker under the Express entry, then going for this program will be good as the province is seeking such applicants.
Nova Scotia Nominee Program
This program welcomes entrepreneurs and graduates to the Nova Scotia province.
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program
If you are a worker or have a job offer, you will have a better chance for the NBPNP, especially if you are in the Express Entry stream.
Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
This program is open to graduates, business investors and skilled workers.
Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
You can apply to the NLPNP if you are a worker, graduate, or business worker, as it is a significant pathway for such applicants.
Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
Getting a job in Northern Canada is an advantage for entering the country, and applying for the NTNP will be a stable pathway for you.
Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)
The YNP is open to Express entry candidates looking to invest in the business sector and workers. If this is you, applying to this program would be great.