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11 Provincial Nominee Pathways to Canadian PR

December 8, 2023

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  • Shireen Fisher

Want to immigrate to Canada? Then, you are on the right track. Canada plans to welcome roughly 485,000 newcomers in 2024. If you are looking to move to a particular Canadian province, you will be happy to learn that the Canadian government has an agreement with provinces and territories, which allows them to nominate immigrants who would like to settle in participating regions.

There are over 80 Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) in Canada, which allow these provinces and territories to select qualifying economic immigration candidates for Canadian permanent residence. Learn more about Canada's 11 PNP provinces and how PNP is one of the best options for gaining Canadian Permanent Residency (PR).

How the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Works

The PNP is for workers with the relevant skill sets, credentials, and employment experience to impact various provinces and territories in Canada positively. Each region has specific streams or pathways and requirements for this process. This means they will target a particular skill level, sector, or education level. Some may have opportunities for business people, while others are in desperate need of semi-skilled workers, etc.

The 11 Provincial Nominee Provinces and Territories

Embarking on the journey towards Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) involves navigating the diverse landscapes and opportunities the participating provinces and territories offer. These regions, each with its unique charm and distinctive nominee pathways, play a pivotal role in shaping the immigration narrative. From the economic prowess of Alberta to the coastal allure of Nova Scotia and the untamed beauty of Yukon, each province unfolds a chapter of possibilities for aspiring immigrants. Ready to immigrate to Canada? Then, find the province that best suits your needs.

The Participating Provinces and Territories are:

  1. Alberta
  2. British Columbia
  3. Newfoundland and Labrador
  4. Manitoba
  5. New Brunswick
  6. Northwest Territories
  7. Nova Scotia
  8. Ontario
  9. Prince Edward Island
  10. Saskatchewan
  11. Yukon

What Each PNP Has to Offer

British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)

Strategically focused on drawing skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates, the BC PNP plays a pivotal role in supporting the province's economic expansion. Offering streams such as Skilled Worker, Entrepreneur, International Graduate, and Health Care Professional, the program provides diverse avenues for talented individuals to contribute to British Columbia's prosperity.

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

Addressing labor shortages across sectors, the AINP actively targets skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates. With streams including Alberta Express Entry, Alberta Opportunity Stream, International Graduate Entrepreneur, and Strategic Recruitment Initiative, the program aligns immigration with Alberta's economic priorities, fostering growth and development.

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)

Designed to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates, the MPNP is a vital component in meeting the labor needs of the province. Streams such as Skilled Workers Overseas, Skilled Workers in Manitoba, Business Investor Category, and International Education Stream offer tailored pathways for individuals to contribute to Manitoba's workforce and economy.

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)

Aimed at addressing labor shortages and supporting economic development, the SINP attracts skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates. Key streams include International Skilled Worker, Entrepreneur, and Occupations In-Demand, providing avenues for diverse professionals to become integral contributors to Saskatchewan's growth.

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

Aligned with Ontario's economic priorities, the OINP offers a range of streams to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates. Notable streams include Human Capital Priorities, Employer Job Offer: International Skilled Trades, and Business Immigration, showcasing a strategic approach to immigration that meets the province's evolving needs.

New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)

With a focus on addressing specific labor shortages and fostering economic growth, the NBPNP actively attracts skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates. Streams encompass Skilled Worker Express Entry, Skilled Worker, Business Immigration, and International Graduate, providing diverse pathways for individuals to contribute to New Brunswick's prosperity.

Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)

Geared towards meeting workforce needs and promoting economic diversification, the NSNP targets skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates. Streams such as Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry, Nova Scotia Skilled Worker, Entrepreneur Stream, and International Graduate Entrepreneur present tailored opportunities for individuals to play a key role in Nova Scotia's economic landscape.

Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)

As a catalyst for economic growth and addressing labor shortages, the PEI PNP attracts skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Streams, including Express Entry, Labour Impact, and Business Impact, provide avenues for individuals to contribute their skills and expertise to Prince Edward Island's thriving economy.

Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)

Committed to supporting economic development and meeting labor market needs, the NLPNP actively attracts skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Through streams like Express Entry Skilled Worker, Atlantic Immigration Pilot, and Employer-Driven Stream, the program offers diverse pathways for individuals to become integral contributors to Newfoundland and Labrador's prosperity.

Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)

Crafted to contribute to the Yukon's economic growth and future development, the YNP actively attracts skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Streams, including Express Entry Yukon, Skilled Worker, and Business Immigration, provide tailored opportunities for individuals to become essential contributors to the Yukon's dynamic landscape.

Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NWTNP)

With a focus on addressing labor shortages and contributing to economic growth, the NWTNP actively attracts skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Streams such as Express Entry Northwest Territories and Business Immigration present avenues for individuals to make significant contributions to the Northwest Territories' evolving economic landscape.

PNPs and The Express Entry System

A provincial nomination can be a great boost to ranking high within the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). One of the great things about PNPs via the Express Entry system is that you can earn up to 600 additional CRS points.

Applicants get a score out of a possible 1,200 points assigned to an Express Entry applicant. The 600 extra points you can receive as a result of a provincial nomination could be a game changer for the outcome of someone's success with getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency.

Many PNP streams have lower CRS cut-off scores than other Express Entry draws. The province of Alberta's lowest possible CRS score is 300. Just getting a nomination could guarantee an ITA.

When applying for PNP, you must follow the specific guidelines outlined by each province. Go to each province or territory's website and contact the one relevant to your application. Remember, requirements vary from region to region. You should also look out for any changes made to programs, as this happens occasionally.

The PNP Application Process

Understanding the application choices is essential. The method of application hinges on the specific stream you are seeking to apply for. You have the option to apply through various streams, and the application procedure will differ according to the stream you opt for.

Non-Express Entry Process

For the non-Express Entry application process of the Provincial Nominee Program, you are required to apply in two stages.

Initially, you must determine your preferred Canadian province or territory and submit an application for their nomination. Your application undergoes scrutiny based on:

  • The province’s specific immigration requirements
  • Your genuine intention to establish residency in the chosen location

Once a province or territory officially nominates you, the subsequent step involves applying to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence. The evaluation of your application adheres to the stipulations of Canadian immigration law.

How to Apply Via the Non-Express Entry Process

  • Step 1: Check your eligibility
  • Step 2: You must now apply online
  • Step 3: Complete your application and all required documents
  • Step 4: Pay all application fees
  • Step 5: Upload your application online

The Express Entry Process

You have two options when applying via the Express Entry System:

  • Step 1: Check your eligibility
  • Step 2. Secure a Provincial nomination OR
  • Step 3. Update your Express Entry profile once you secure a nomination
  • Step 4. Apply for Canadian permanent residence once you get an Invitation to Apply

Industries with In-demand Occupations in Each Province

Due to a high retiree rate and low birth rate, industries across Canada remain in dire need of workers. This means that there is an abundance of jobs in Canada. Each region exhibits a nuanced employment landscape, from the vibrant tourism and hospitality sector in British Columbia to the robust healthcare industry in Newfoundland & Labrador. Below are just some of the industries with in-demand occupations in each PNP province.

Province Industries
British Columbia Tourism/Hospitality, Trucking, Food Processing
Newfoundland & Labrador Healthcare, Hospitality/Tourism, Retail, Logistics, Farming, Food Processing
Manitoba Healthcare, Food Production, etc
New Brunswick Healthcare, Travel, Hospitality, Retail, Trucking, Delivery, Food Processing, Farming
Yukon Retail, Hotel Staff, Drivers, Farm Workers, Cashiers, Housekeeping, Janitors
Northwest Territories Retail Staff, Hotel Desk Clerks, Drivers, Farm Workers, Cashiers, Housekeeping, Janitors
Nova Scotia Nurse Staff, Transport Truck Drivers
Canada (General) Find out more by taking the eligibility test
Yukon (Again?) Retail Salespersons, Hotel Desk Clerks, Truck Drivers, Farm Workers, Cashiers, Food Counter Attendants, Hotel Housekeeping, Janitorial Services
Ontario Agriculture, Retail, Transportation (Truck Drivers), Health, Construction
Prince Edward Island Healthcare, Food Production, Delivery, Agriculture, Cleaning

Learn more about in-demand jobs in Canada.

FAQs

What Are the Disadvantages of Canada's PNPs?

Applying through a Provincial Nominee Program can take a long time. It can range anything from 6 to 19 months. However, if you apply via the Express Entry System, it takes six months.

Quebec Isn't on the PNP list. Am I missing Something?

Quebec does not participate in the Provincial Nominee Program. The province has a separate agreement with the government that allows it to choose interested individuals. Quebec is the only province in Canada that has permission to make a decision on who is selected. It also has its own set of immigration requirements.

Do I Have to Choose the Provincial Nomination Program to be able to move to Canada?

No, you have many other options. But it is one of the best options that will allow you to live and work in a particular province in Canada. There are many permanent residency programs in Canada, which include the Express Entry System and Spousal Sponsorship. Find out whether you will qualify for them.