How the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) works

This initiative targets employees who have the talents, education, and job experience to contribute to the economy of a particular province or territory, desire to stay in that province, and wish to become permanent residents of Canada.

Each territory and province has its own “streams” and requirements (immigration programs that target specific categories). In one program stream, for instance, provinces and territories may target

• Students
• Entrepreneurs
• Skilled workers
• Semi-skilled workers

Recognize the application alternatives

How you apply depends on whatever stream of the Provincial Nominee Program you are applying to. You may need to submit your application using the paper-based or online Express Entry route.

As part of the application procedure, you must pass a medical test and obtain a criminal background check (certificate). Everyone must undergo these checks, regardless of where they intend to reside in Canada.

Paper-based method

In this procedure:

• You submit a nomination application to the province or territory under a non-Express Entry stream.
• You must meet the qualifying conditions of the nominating province.
• You submit a paper-based application for your permanent residence to IRCC once you have been nominated or selected by the province.
• You must qualify for a medical exam and a background check (certificate). Everyone must undergo these checks, regardless of where they intend to reside in Canada.
• The application processing period is lengthier compared to Express Entry.

Express Entry method

In the Express Entry online application process, there are two ways to apply:

• You contact the province or territory and submit an Express Entry nomination application
• If the province or territory decides to nominate you, you must build an Express Entry profile (or edit an existing one) and indicate you’ve been nominated

OR

• You build an Express Entry profile and indicate your desired provinces and territories
• In case a province or territory sends you a “notification of interest,” you must contact them personally
• You should submit an application for their Express Entry stream
• The province or territory will send a nomination certificate to your account if you are nominated, and you will accept it electronically

In both circumstances, you must

• Satisfy provincial or territorial eligibility requirements
• Submit an Express Entry profile and demonstrate that you meet the minimal Express Entry requirements, including eligibility for one of the covered immigration programs
• If the territory or province invites you to apply, you must submit your application electronically to IRCC

Select a Canadian territory or province:

To be nominated or selected by territory or province, you must directly contact them and fullow the steps on their website:

• Alberta
• British Culumbia
• Manitoba
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Ontario
• Prince Edward Island
• Saskatchewan
• Yukon

The criteria vary by province and territory and are subject to change.