Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Receive a provincial nomination and gain 600 additional CRS points toward permanent residence
Major Provincial Programs
Each Canadian province and territory has its own nominee program with unique streams tailored to their economic needs.
Ontario
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
- Human Capital Priorities
- Employer Job Offer-Skilled Trades
- International Graduate
British Columbia
BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
- Skills Immigration - Skilled Worker
- Skills Immigration - International Graduate
- Express Entry BC
Alberta
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
- Alberta Opportunity Stream
- Express Entry Stream
- Rural Renewal Stream
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
- Express Entry
- Occupation In-Demand
- Saskatchewan Experience
Manitoba
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
- Skilled Workers in Manitoba
- Skilled Workers Overseas
- International Education
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
- Nova Scotia Demand
- Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry
- Physician
PNP Benefits
- Provincial nomination = 600 additional CRS points
- Faster processing through Express Entry
- Ability to work while processing
- More flexible eligibility criteria than federal programs
- Provincial settlement and integration support
- Pathways for workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs
General Requirements
- Valid job offer from the province (for most streams)
- Minimum language proficiency (CLB 4-7 depending on stream)
- Required education level (varies by program)
- Relevant work experience (typically 1-2 years)
- Proof of sufficient settlement funds
- Intention to reside in the nominating province
Typical PNP Process
Step-by-step overview of the PNP application process
Eligibility Assessment
1-2 weeksIdentify provincial programs matching your profile
Create Express Entry Profile (if applicable)
1-3 hoursSubmit EE profile for Express Entry-aligned streams
Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
2-4 hoursApply to provincial candidate pool
Receive Notification and Nomination
1-6 monthsGet Invitation to Apply (ITA) and submit full application
Accept Nomination
30 daysAccept provincial nomination in your EE profile
PR Application
6-8 monthsSubmit PR application to IRCC
Find Out If You Qualify
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PNP Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between PNP and Express Entry?
PNPs are provincial programs that nominate candidates for permanent residence. Some PNP streams are "Express Entry-aligned" and award 600 additional CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA. Other PNP streams are "base" programs and bypass Express Entry entirely.
Can I apply to multiple PNP programs?
Yes, you can apply to multiple PNP programs simultaneously. However, each program has application fees (typically $250-$1,500) and requires specific documentation. It's strategic to focus on 1-2 provinces that best match your profile.
Do I need a job offer for PNP?
It depends on the stream. Some PNP streams require a valid job offer from a provincial employer (e.g., employer job offer streams). Other streams, like Ontario Human Capital or Saskatchewan Express Entry, do NOT require a job offer.
How long does the PNP process take?
Timelines vary by province and stream. Express Entry-aligned streams are processed in 6-8 months total. Base streams typically take 12-18 months. Provincial processing alone can take 1-6 months depending on the province and application completeness.
Do I have to stay in the nominating province after getting PR?
Legally, once you get PR, you can live and work anywhere in Canada. However, you sign a declaration of intent to live in the nominating province. Moving immediately after getting PR can be considered misrepresentation. It's generally recommended to stay in the province for 1-2 years.
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