PNP Canada: Check All Provincial Nominee Programs for PR

Setting out on the path to Canadian permanent residence can be a transformative adventure. One that weaves through the different and diverse aspects of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). These programs are like keys, each one unlocking a unique door to the diverse provinces and territories that make up Canada.  

As you navigate this intricate web, you are not just filling out forms; you are charting a course to become a part of the vibrant mosaic of Canadian society. Let’s begin this journey to unravel the PNP puzzle and find the opportunities that await you.

Table of Contents

• What is PNP in Canada?
• How the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Works?
• Who are eligible for PNP Canada?
• What Provincial Nominee Programs are available in Canada?
• Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
• British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
• Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
• New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NB PNP)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP)
• Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
• Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
• Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
• Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
• Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
• Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)
• Understanding PNP Application Options
• What are the Costs Associated with PNP Immigration?
• Provincial Nominee Programs and Their Impact on Express Entry
• Wrap-Up: PNP – Your Gateway to a Thriving Canadian Future
• FAQs on PNP Canada

What is PNP in Canada?

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are immigration pathways available in several Canadian provinces and territories. These programs allow provinces and territories to select and nominate individuals who want to immigrate to Canada and settle in a specific region. Each province or territory in Canada has its unique set of immigration streams and criteria within the PNPs. 

These programs are tailored to address the specific economic and demographic needs of each region. It’s important to note that all decisions regarding Canadian PR must be approved at the national level by the federal government. Consequently, Canada’s provinces cannot independently grant permanent resident status. This is why these programs are often referred to as “Nominee” programs.

In the context of PNP, a successful applicant is nominated by the province to apply for permanent residence at the federal government level. This two-part process begins with provincial approval and, once secured, allows the applicant to proceed with the federal-level application.

How the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Works?

The PNP is tailored for individuals who meet specific criteria:

• Possess the essential skills, education, and work experience necessary to enhance the economic growth of a particular province or territory.
• Desire to reside within the chosen province.
• Aspire to attain permanent resident status in Canada.

Diverse Streams and Target Groups

Each province and territory in Canada administers its distinct “streams”. Which are essentially immigration programs designed to address the needs of particular groups. These may include:

• Students
• Business professionals
• Skilled workers
• Semi-skilled workers

These streams have their own set of requisites and criteria that applicants must meet.

Who is eligible for PNP Canada?

Each province defines its distinct eligibility criteria, which include language proficiency, educational background, and skill qualifications. Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) involve several fundamental criteria:

• Applicants must possess the skills, education, and work experience essential for successfully settling in Canada. And ensuring the well-being of themselves and their families.
• The province or territory of choice will evaluate your capacity to fulfill their specific economic and labor market requirements.
• Meeting additional language and education requirements specific to the province or territory’s criteria.
• Furthermore, to qualify, you must demonstrate your ability to contribute positively to the local economy.
• Show a genuine commitment to establishing residence within the selected province or territory.

What Provincial Nominee Programs are available in Canada?

With the exception of Quebec and Nunavut, every province and territory in Canada administers its own PNP. These programs exhibit substantial variations in eligibility criteria and application procedures. 

The provinces and territories that host PNPs include:

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

Note: The province of Quebec does not feature a provincial nominee program. Those seeking information on Quebec’s immigration programs should visit their official immigration website for comprehensive details.

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

The AINP is now commonly referred to as the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). It is an economic immigration initiative to select individuals for permanent residency in Alberta. Candidates need to possess the necessary skills to address labor shortages or intend to purchase or establish a business in Alberta. Additionally, they must have the means to support their families. This program is jointly administered by the Alberta and Canadian governments.

If nominated through the program, you can apply for permanent resident status along with your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada are responsible for processing permanent residence applications. Final decisions on these applications are made by the federal government.

AAIP Program Streams

In the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), you will find diverse categories to match your goals, whether you are a worker or entrepreneur. This program offers a variety of streams for your immigration needs.

Streams for Workers

The AAIP offers three distinct pathways for foreign workers who are residing and working in Alberta or have intentions to do so:

Alberta Opportunity Stream

The Alberta Opportunity Stream is for people from other countries who are working temporarily in Alberta. They also need to have a full-time job offer from an Alberta employer in an eligible occupation. To apply, you need a positive Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or a specific type of work permit that doesn’t need an LMIA. 

Candidates are required to meet additional criteria related to residency, the type of work permit, occupation, language proficiency, and education. Additionally, they must have relevant work experience.

Alberta Express Entry Stream

The Alberta Express Entry Stream permits Alberta to nominate a limited number of eligible candidates from the Express Entry system of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Individuals interested in the Alberta Express Entry Stream must receive an invitation to apply. Without an invitation to apply, one cannot submit a nomination application through this stream.

Rural Renewal Stream

The Rural Renewal Stream helps bring new people to rural areas in Alberta. It uses a community-focused way to help the local economy grow and make the community better. This program recruits and retains newcomers from other countries to live, work, and settle in their communities.

Communities need to apply for a special status called “designated” before they can recruit and support suitable candidates. Temporary foreign workers who have a job offer from an Alberta employer in a designated community, along with an endorsement letter from that community, are eligible to apply for an AAIP nomination. These communities can also support refugees who qualify under the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), assisted by a non-governmental referral partner. These partners help EMPP candidates through the AAIP application process.

Alberta Business Immigration Programs

The AAIP offers four pathways for entrepreneurs in Alberta: Rural Entrepreneur, for rural businesses; Graduate Entrepreneur, for international graduates; Farm Stream, for farmers; and Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur, for launching innovative ventures by graduates from non-Canadian institutions. Take a look at the Alberta Business Immigration Program for detailed information on how entrepreneurs can immigrate.

British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) is an economic immigration initiative managed by the Immigration Programs Branch of the Government of British Columbia. The province can choose and put forward foreign workers, international students, and entrepreneurs who can contribute to fulfilling British Columbia’s workforce requirements. While aligning with government objectives, and promoting the province’s economic growth. 

If you receive a nomination through this program, you and your family can subsequently apply to IRCC for PR in Canada.

BC PNP Program Streams

Within the province, various immigration streams are organized into specific categories:

1) Skills Immigration Stream

British Columbia’s thriving economy requires skilled and experienced workers. The Skilled Worker stream offers a pathway for workers in various skilled occupations like professionals, managers, technicians, and tradespeople to become permanent residents in BC. For the majority of programs within BC Skills Immigration, applicants typically require a job offer from a British Columbia employer to qualify. BC Skills Immigration includes the following streams:

Skilled Worker

British Columbia’s growing economy requires skilled workers. The Skilled Worker stream offers professionals in various occupations, including management, technical, and trades, a path to secure permanent residence in the province.

Health Authority

The Health Authority stream offers a route to permanent residence for individuals employed by a health authority in BC. If you are a physician, midwife, or nurse practitioner, you may also qualify to apply through this stream.

Entry Level and Semi-Skilled (ELSS)

The Entry Level and Semi-Skilled stream provide a pathway for individuals in specific occupations within the tourism/hospitality or food processing sectors to achieve permanent residence in BC.

International Graduate

Designed for individuals who have obtained a valid credential from an eligible Canadian university or college within the last three years. The International Graduate stream offers a way to secure permanent residence and remain in BC.

International Post-Graduate

If you have recently finished a master’s or doctoral degree at a BC post-secondary institution, or you are a Ph.D. candidate at a public BC post-secondary institution, you might be eligible for the BC PNP’s International Post-Graduate stream. No job offer from an employer is needed for this application.

BC PNP Tech

The BC PNP Tech stream provides a permanent residence route for skilled workers in specific, in-demand tech occupations. It assists B.C. tech employers in recruiting and retaining international talent when local skilled workers are unavailable.

2) Express Entry British Columbia Stream

Many of the programs within BC Skills Immigration offer fast-track permanent residency for eligible candidates who have an active Express Entry profile. 

Express Entry is applicable to the Skilled Worker Stream, International Graduate Stream, International Post-Graduate streams Health Authority, and the BC PNP Tech pathway within the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program. Applicants in these streams have the option to use the Express Entry BC option to facilitate their immigration process. 

On the other hand, the Entry Level and Semi-Skilled do not offer the Express Entry option. This stream has different criteria and pathways for individuals seeking to immigrate to British Columbia.

British Columbia Business Immigration Programs

The BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration program is designed for international entrepreneurs looking to establish businesses in BC. This route allows entrepreneurs to first arrive as temporary residents and then apply for permanent residency after successfully launching a business. The program includes three streams: the Base Stream for senior managers or business owners, the Regional Pilot encouraging business startups in smaller communities, and the Strategic Projects category for foreign companies making significant investments in B.C.

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) 

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) made history in 1998 as the pioneer of the PNP. Since the MPNP has been a driving force behind Manitoba’s remarkable growth, it has significantly impacted the population, workforce, and economic prosperity.

The MPNP, a part of Canada’s PNP, offers a range of immigration opportunities for foreign individuals seeking to become PR in Canada. This program is strategically designed to attract immigrants who can make a positive impact on the province. It includes skilled workers, individuals in industries facing labor shortages, recent graduates, and agricultural entrepreneurs.

MPNP Program Streams

There are three main MPNP streams that you can apply for permanent residence (PR) under 

Skilled Workers Stream

The Skilled Worker Stream is driven by local needs and is tailored to match the requirements of Manitoba employers. This program selects globally trained and experienced individuals possessing the necessary skills demanded by the local job market. Then nominates them for Canadian permanent resident visas to settle and work in the province.

This stream offers two distinct pathways: Skilled Worker in Manitoba (SWM) and Skilled Worker Overseas (SWO).

• Skilled Worker in Manitoba (SWM): Targets applicants with strong ties to the province via continuous employment, skills, education, work experience, and language proficiency to contribute immediately to the Manitoba economy and community.
• Skilled Worker Overseas (SWO): The SWO pathway selects applicants with ties to Manitoba through family or friends, education or work experience in the province, or a direct Invitation to Apply from Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program as part of a Strategic Recruitment Initiative.

International Education Stream (IES)

The International Education Stream offers a faster nomination route for international students graduating from designated Manitoba post-secondary schools. It includes three pathways: Career Employment Pathway, Graduate Internship Pathway, and International Student Entrepreneur Pilot (ISEP)

Students who graduated from other Canadian provinces can’t apply under this stream but might qualify under the Skilled Worker in Manitoba pathway.

• Career Employment Pathway: Offers quicker nomination for post-secondary graduates securing long-term jobs in Manitoba within an in-demand field related to their education. Eligible graduates can apply to MPNP immediately after securing the job post-graduation.
• Graduate Internship Pathway: Provides an expedited route for international master’s and doctoral graduates engaged in industry innovation internships in Manitoba. Taking part in Mitacs’ Accelerate or Elevate internships in Manitoba allows you to apply for the MPNP right away, even if you don’t have a job offer.
• International Student Entrepreneur Pilot (ISEP): Allows up to 20 international graduates annually to pursue entrepreneurship in Manitoba. Nomination for permanent residence follows upon fulfilling their Business Performance Agreement conditions. Attending the information session is mandatory before applying.

For graduates from other Canadian provinces, eligibility might align with the Skilled Worker in Manitoba or Entrepreneur Pathway under the Business Investor Stream.

Manitoba Business Immigration Programs

Manitoba’s Business Investor Stream (BIS) offers two pathways for global investors. The Entrepreneur Pathway (EP) attracts skilled entrepreneurs, allowing them to relocate on a temporary work permit. The Farm Investor Pathway (FIP) targets individuals with investment capital for rural Manitoba farms.

New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NB PNP)

Situated on Canada’s east coast along the Atlantic Ocean, New Brunswick presents a distinctive way of life and exciting career opportunities. The province highly values the experiences and skills of newcomers. Through its provincial immigration programs, the Government of New Brunswick can nominate individuals with the greatest potential to achieve economic stability in the province. It’s essential to note that these programs are centered on economic immigration. They do not serve the purpose of family reunification, addressing the needs of protected persons, or humanitarian and compassionate considerations.

NB PNP Program Streams

The NB PNP is a program for newcomers who want to live and work in the province. It helps qualified foreign individuals move to New Brunswick faster. There are four streams for permanent residence:

NB Skilled Worker Stream

The NB Skilled Worker Stream is for skilled individuals from abroad with the necessary qualifications to help New Brunswick’s economy. Applicants need to meet minimum requirements, secure a genuine job offer from a local employer, and intend to live and work in the province permanently. This program also aids New Brunswick employers in hiring foreign workers and international graduates when local candidates are unavailable.

NB Express Entry Stream (EE)

This stream is for candidates who possess the skills, qualifications, and work experience needed for a sought-after job in New Brunswick. The NB Express Entry Stream links to the federal Express Entry system, boosting your likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

NB Strategic Initiative Stream

The NB Strategic Initiative Stream is for French-speaking individuals with the skills to contribute to New Brunswick’s economy and commit to residing there permanently. Immigration New Brunswick (INB) is focused on increasing and sustaining the immigration of French speakers to the province. They have established the exclusive Strategic Initiative stream for French-speaking candidates and maintain a priority for them across different program streams.

NB Private Career College Graduate Pilot

The goal of the NB Private Career College Graduate Pilot is to provide an immigration pathway for graduates of targeted one-year and two-year programs in priority occupations. It caters to recent graduates from specific private career colleges in New Brunswick who are ineligible for the PGWP program.

New Brunswick Business Immigration Programs

The NB Business Immigration Stream targets experienced entrepreneurs or post-graduates aspiring to establish, operate, and manage a business in New Brunswick, making the province their home.

Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP)

The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP) is an economic immigration initiative with a twofold purpose:

• Addressing labour market challenges faced by employers in Newfoundland and Labrador.
• Attracting skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs interested in establishing their lives in Newfoundland and Labrador.

The NL PNP serves as a gateway for individuals who can enhance the province’s economic well-being and are committed to making Newfoundland and Labrador their permanent home with their families. Successful applicants may attain Canadian permanent residency.

NL PNP Program Streams

The NL PNP comprises five distinct streams designed to align with your unique skills, education, and occupation:

Express Entry Skilled Worker

The NL PNP Express Entry Skilled Worker category is a fast-tracked route for highly skilled candidates seeking permanent residence. To qualify, applicants need to be initially selected for the IRCC Express Entry pool of eligible candidates. A nomination from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador will enhance the applicant’s score in the Express Entry pool, leading to an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence from IRCC.

Skilled Worker

The NLPNP Skilled Worker category is designed for foreign nationals and prospective immigrants possessing skills that are valuable to Newfoundland and Labrador’s job market. All applicants are required to have the genuine intention to establish permanent residency in Newfoundland and Labrador.

International Graduate

The NL PNP’s International Graduate Category offers a pathway to permanent residency for international students who plan to establish Newfoundland and Labrador as their permanent residence. Individuals applying under this category must possess a valid post-graduation work permit (PGWP).

Newfoundland and Labrador Business Immigration Programs

Newfoundland and Labrador’s International Entrepreneur category is for experienced business owners or senior managers seeking permanent residency. The International Graduate Entrepreneur category targets graduates of Memorial University or the College of the North Atlantic, requiring them to initiate or purchase a local business and manage it for at least one year to be eligible for permanent resident status. 

Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)

The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) provides a pathway to attain Canadian permanent resident status for foreign individuals who aspire to call this expansive territory their home.

To become an immigrant through the Northwest Territories Nominee Program, you must fulfill one of the following criteria:

• Be prepared to initiate, acquire, or invest in a business within the NWT.
• You have a job offer from an employer in the NWT employer.

The NTNP is focused on attracting workers across skilled, semi-skilled, and low-skilled occupations through employer-driven immigration streams. In contrast, its business-oriented counterpart seeks entrepreneurs and business proprietors from various sectors to establish and cultivate new enterprises in this remote northern region

NTNP Program Streams

The NTNP offers a variety of program streams to cater to the diverse immigration needs of individuals and employers in the region. These streams are strategically designed to address specific scenarios and support the economic growth and vitality of the Northwest Territories.

Employer-Driven Stream

The Employer-Driven Stream is aimed at employers seeking to hire and nominate foreign nationals when there’s a lack of available Canadians or Canadian Permanent Residents. This stream facilitates the hiring of crucially needed and skilled workers and helps workers secure Canadian Permanent Residency.

To engage with this stream, securing a job offer from an NWT employer is the initial requirement. Without a job offer, expressions of interest from individuals are not accepted, and no invitations to apply are issued.

Francophone Stream

The Francophone Stream permits eligible foreign nationals fluent in both French and English, with a valid job offer from an NWT Employer, to apply to the NTNP. This stream aims to expand the labour force for bilingual workers across all National Occupational Classification skill levels (NOC skill levels O, A, B, C & D).

Meeting minimum language proficiency is necessary to ensure the foreign national can effectively communicate in both French and English. You must meet the language requirement when you apply, and you need to show proof of your language skills by taking a language proficiency test.

Northwest Territories Business Immigration Programs

The Northwest Territories Nominee Program Business Stream is for foreign individuals looking to establish a business, acquire an existing one, or invest in and manage an existing business in the NWT.

Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) 

The Nova Scotia Provincial Program, known as NSNP, is a provincial nominee program established for newcomers seeking to make Nova Scotia their new home. This program is specifically designed to speed up the immigration process for skilled workers, students, and entrepreneurs who possess the potential to make meaningful contributions to Nova Scotia’s economy.

Nova Scotia actively engages with potential applicants through various NSNP streams, carefully assessing their human capital attributes and experience that are essential for strengthening communities and enhancing the province’s economy. Individuals who meet the eligibility criteria for any of the immigration streams offered by the province have the opportunity to receive a nomination for Nova Scotia immigration, paving the way for a promising future in this vibrant region.

NSNP Program Streams

Explore the various Nova Scotia Nominee Program streams below:

Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities

The Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities stream is for candidates in the federal Express Entry system. It’s aimed at selecting individuals who meet the province’s job market needs. Only those who receive a Letter of Interest from the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration can apply. To be eligible, you should have a valid Express Entry number and meet all IRCC criteria for the Express Entry pool.

Labour Market Priorities for Physicians

The Labour Market Priorities for Physicians in Nova Scotia chooses physicians for nomination through the federal Express Entry system. Eligible candidates are those who have received an approved job offer from the Nova Scotia Health Authority or the IWK Health Centre and have been issued a Letter of Interest from Labour, Skills, and Immigration (LSI).

Specialist physicians (NOC 31100 and NOC 31101) and general practitioners and family physicians (NOC 31102) will receive a Letter of Interest from LSI. This occurs once LSI is informed of your Express Entry profile number and upon securing a signed, approved job opportunity with the Nova Scotia Health Authority or the IWK Health Centre.

Physician

The Physician Stream supports Nova Scotia’s public health authorities, the Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA), and the Izaak Walton Killam Health Centre (IWK), in employing general practitioners, family physicians, and specialist physicians within the province. This stream helps the NSHA and IWK in recruiting and retaining physicians possessing the necessary skills for roles that couldn’t be filled by permanent residents or Canadian citizens.

International Graduates In Demand

The International Graduates in Demand stream is intended for recent international graduates whose skills and education align with particular job categories in the National Occupational Classification (NOC). This stream is presently available to workers in the following NOC job categories:

• NOC 32102: Paramedical Occupations
• NOC 32124: Pharmacy Technicians
• NOC 33102: Nurse Aides, Orderlies and Patient Service Associates
• NOC 42202: Early Childhood Educators and Assistants

Skilled Worker

The Skilled Worker stream assists employers in hiring foreign workers and recent international graduates whose skills are in demand in Nova Scotia. Employers can only hire foreign workers for positions they couldn’t fill with permanent residents or Canadian citizens.

Occupations in Demand

The Occupations in Demand stream focuses on specific TEER category 3, 4, or 5 occupations in the National Occupational Classification that are highly sought after in Nova Scotia’s job market. Labour, Skills, and Immigration identifies these occupations based on labour market information. It is important to note that these eligible occupations can vary over time. 

For your application to be eligible, you need to have a full-time permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer in any of the following NOC categories:

• NOC 33102: Nurse Aides
• NOC 65200: Food and Beverage Servers
• NOC 65201: Food Counter Attendants, Kitchen Helpers and related Support Occupations
• NOC 65310: Light Duty Cleaners
• NOC 73300: Transport Truck Drivers
• NOC 73400: Heavy Equipment Operators
• NOC 75110: Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers

Critical Construction Worker Pilot

The Critical Construction Worker Pilot – Job Offer Pathway is exclusively for individuals with a permanent, full-time job offer from a Nova Scotia employer. The job offer must fall within the list of approved NOCs given below.

• 70010: Construction Managers
• 70011: Home Building and Renovation Managers
• 7201: Contractors and Supervisors, Electrical Trades and Telecommunications Occupations
• 72014: Contractors and Supervisors, Other Construction Trades, Installers, Repairers and Servicers
• 72020: Contractors and Supervisors, Mechanic Trades
• 72106: Welders and Related Machine Operators
• 72200: Electricians (Except Industrial and Power System)
• 72201: Industrial Electricians
• 72310: Carpenters
• 72320: Bricklayers
• 72401: Heavy-Duty Equipment Mechanics
• 72402: Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanics
• 72500: Crane Operators
• 73100: Concrete Finishers
• 73102: Plasterers, Drywall Installers and Finishers and Lathers
• 73110: Roofers and Shinglers
• 73200: Residential and Commercial Installers and Servicers
• 73400: Heavy Equipment Operators
• 75101: Material Handlers
• 75110: Construction Trades Helpers and Labourers
• 75119: Other Trades Helpers and Labourers

Nova Scotia Experience – Express Entry

The Nova Scotia Experience – Express Entry stream is designed for highly skilled individuals aiming to settle in Nova Scotia permanently. To be eligible, applicants need a minimum of one year of work experience in Nova Scotia in an occupation falling under TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the NOC.

Nova Scotia Business Immigration Programs

The Nova Scotia Entrepreneur Stream is for experienced business owners seeking residence by establishing or acquiring a business and actively engaging in its operations. The International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream is for recent graduates of Nova Scotia institutions who have initiated or acquired a business, managing it for at least a year, and can be nominated for permanent residency. Both streams operate on an invitation-only basis.

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is Ontario’s economic immigration initiative. It collaborates with the Government of Canada, specifically through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Individuals, including foreign workers and international students, possessing the requisite skills, experience, and education, submit their nominations to OINP.

OINP identifies and nominates individuals for permanent residency, aligning with the skills and experience required by the Ontario economy. The ultimate decision to approve permanent residence applications rests with the Government of Canada.

OINP Program Streams

The OINP offers nine distinct pathways for potential qualification.

1) Ontario Employer Job Offer 

The following streams function through the OINP’s Expression of Interest System. To meet the criteria, you must register an expression of interest and secure an invitation to apply.

Foreign Worker Stream

Foreign Worker Stream allows foreign workers with a job offer in a skilled occupation to apply for permanent residency in Ontario. To qualify, your job offer must be in a skilled occupation under TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the NOC. This opportunity is available for foreign workers both within and outside Canada.

International Student Stream

The International Student Stream is a chance for international students holding a job offer in a skilled occupation to apply for permanent residency in Ontario. For eligibility, your job offer must be in a skilled occupation classified under TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the NOC.

In-Demand Skills Stream

The In-Demand Skills Stream is for foreign workers with job offers in high-demand occupations like agriculture and construction. It provides them with the chance to apply for permanent residency in Ontario. This opportunity is available to foreign workers both within and outside Canada.

2) Master’s or PhD Degree from an Ontario University

You may qualify under the following streams, which operate through the OINP’s Expression of Interest System. To be eligible, you must register an expression of interest and obtain an invitation to apply.

Masters Graduate Stream

The Masters Graduate Stream is designed for international students who have completed a master’s degree in the province. This stream allows these graduates to apply for permanent residency and seek employment opportunities in Ontario. 

PhD Graduate Stream

The PhD Graduate Stream is another initiative specifically designed for international students who have completed a PhD degree in the province. This stream allows these graduates to apply for permanent residency and explore employment opportunities within Ontario

3) Ontario’s Express Entry Streams

If you possess the skills and experience that Ontario employers are seeking, you may be eligible for the following streams, which operate within the federal government’s Express Entry System. To meet the criteria, you must have an Express Entry profile and receive an Ontario Notification of Interest.

Human Capital Priorities Stream

The Human Capital Priorities Stream is a pathway that targets skilled workers. This stream is ideal for individuals who possess the necessary combination of skilled work experience, educational qualifications, and proficiency in the English or French language.

Skilled Trades Stream

If you are a foreign worker with work experience in an eligible skilled trade in Ontario, the Skilled Trades Stream is the avenue through which you can apply for immigration to the province.

French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream

For foreign workers who are fluent in French and also possess strong English language abilities, the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream can be an excellent option. 

Ontario Business Immigration Programs

For foreign entrepreneurs with promising business ideas, the Ontario Entrepreneur stream offers an opportunity to establish a new business or expand an existing one in the province. This stream functions via an Expression of Interest system, where eligibility involves registering an expression of interest and obtaining an invitation to submit an application.

Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)

Prince Edward Island (PEI), comprising the main island and its neighbouring isles, is the smallest province in Canada and is often referred to as “the birthplace of Canada.” If your goal is to secure permanent residency in Prince Edward Island, one option is to receive a nomination from the federal government via the PEI Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Nomination is granted to individuals based on their commitment to reside and work in PEI and their economic capacity to establish themselves in the province. Currently, preference will be given to entrepreneurs and individuals who possess the qualifications to address skill shortages in the PEI labor market.

PEI PNP Program Streams

The province offers various immigration pathways categorized as follows. The PEI PNP draws are also conducted in these pathways.

1) PEI Express Entry

Aspiring immigrants in the federal Express Entry pool who express their desire to live and work in Prince Edward Island may qualify for PEI Express Entry. To be eligible, candidates must meet the requirements of one of the federal economic immigration classes. However, only those applicants whose skills and experience align with the current labour needs of the province will be considered for Express Entry PNP.

2) PEI Labour Impact

Foreign workers and recent graduates have the opportunity to seek provincial nomination through Prince Edward Island’s Labour Impact streams. These programs provide individuals who have already secured employment with a PEI employer with the chance to access the fast route to permanent residency if they are granted the PEI PNP nomination.

Skilled Workers in PEI

The Skilled Workers in PEI stream under the PEI PNP invites foreign workers currently working in PEI to seek a provincial nomination for an accelerated route to permanent residency. This addresses the need for skilled positions that cannot currently be filled by the local labour force.

Skilled Workers Outside Canada

Skilled Workers Outside Canada who have secured a position classified as NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 from an eligible employer may qualify to apply for this stream within the PEI PNP.

Critical Worker

You are eligible to seek nomination for permanent residency via the Critical Worker stream of the PEI PNP if you are presently employed full-time in PEI. This employer-driven stream empowers Island employers to fill intermediate-skilled positions that remain unfilled through the local job market.

PEI PNP Occupations in Demand

PEI PNP offers the Occupations In Demand stream targeting foreign workers with job offers in PEI in specific high-demand occupations. PEI PNP addresses the labour market needs of PEI by inviting skilled individuals in occupations such as Nurse Aides, Transport Truck Drivers, Construction Trades Helpers, and more. 

International Graduate

Graduates who have recently completed their studies at an approved PEI post-secondary institution and are currently employed in the province with a valid PGWP can benefit from the International Graduate program.

Intermediate Experience

The PEI Intermediate Experience Stream offers a pathway for skilled workers with intermediate-level qualifications who have a long-term, full-time job offer from a Prince Edward Island employer.

Prince Edward Island Business Immigration Programs

Individuals looking to immigrate to Canada through the PEI Business Impact stream have options to establish a business with full ownership or invest in a PEI business. Another route is obtaining a work permit by investing in a PEI business, facilitating a quicker transition to life in Canada and Prince Edward Island.

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)

The Saskatchewan Provincial Nominee Program, officially known as the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), was inaugurated in 1998 with the primary aim of addressing the economic and labor market requirements of the province through immigration. This provincial program has achieved remarkable success. The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), which is a part of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), comprises a range of immigration pathways that enable foreign nationals to attain Canadian permanent residency. This PNP is strategically crafted to attract immigrants in fields that will contribute to the province’s development, including skilled workers, individuals in sectors with labor shortages, those with job offers, and entrepreneurs.

SINP Program Streams

Newcomers have the option to apply for permanent residency under one of the four primary categories of the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program:

1) International Skilled Worker

The International Skilled Worker (ISW) category is tailored for skilled workers residing outside of Saskatchewan, aiming to work and settle in the province. Within the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program, international skilled workers can apply under the following sub-categories.

International Skilled Worker: Employment Offer

The employment offer sub-category is designed for skilled workers who:

• Hold a job offer for a skilled occupation in the province.
• Reside either abroad or in Canada.
• Meet the specified criteria for this sub-category.

International Skilled Worker: Tech Talent Pathway

The tech talent pathway sub-category is intended for highly skilled workers in the technology and innovation sector who:

• Hold a job offer for a high-skilled occupation in the province.
• Reside in Canada or abroad.
• Meet the specified criteria for this sub-category.
• Being in the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Express Entry Pool (not mandatory).

International Skilled Worker: Occupation In-Demand

The occupation in-demand sub-category is tailored for skilled workers who:

• Do not possess a job offer in Saskatchewan but are highly skilled in a demanded occupation.
• Reside either abroad or in Canada.
• Meet the specified criteria for this sub-category.

International Skilled Worker: Saskatchewan Express Entry

The Express Entry sub-category is designed for skilled workers who:

• Lack a job offer in Saskatchewan.
• Reside either abroad or in Canada.
• Are registered in the IRCC Express Entry Pool.
• Meet the specific criteria of this sub-category.

International Skilled Worker: Hard-to-Fill Skills Pilot

The hard-to-fill skills pilot sub-category is intended for intermediate and lower-skilled workers who:

• Hold a job offer for a qualified intermediate or low-skilled occupation in Saskatchewan.
• Reside in Canada or abroad.
• Meet the criteria outlined for this pilot program.

2) Worker with Saskatchewan Work Experience

The Saskatchewan Experience (In-SK) category is designated for foreign nationals presently employed and residing in Saskatchewan on a valid work permit. Foreign workers meeting these criteria can apply under six sub-categories within the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program.

Skilled Worker With Existing Work Permit

The Saskatchewan skilled worker with existing work permit sub-category is for skilled workers who:

• Hold a valid work permit and have worked in Saskatchewan for a minimum of six months.
• Have a permanent full-time job offer from an employer in Saskatchewan.Specifically in NOC Matrix TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3, or in a designated trade.
• Meet the specified criteria of this sub-category.

Semi-skilled Agriculture Worker with Existing Work Permit

The Saskatchewan semi-skilled agriculture worker with existing work permit sub-category is designed for semi-skilled workers who:

• Have held a valid work permit and worked for the employer offering a job for more than six months, or have previously worked in Saskatchewan for a minimum of six months.
• Have a permanent full-time job offer from an employer in Saskatchewan. Specifically in the following NOC occupations:
  – NOC 885100: Livestock labourers
  – NOC 85101: Harvesting labourers
  – NOC 84120: Specialized livestock workers and farm machinery operators
  – NOC 85103: Nursery and Greenhouse labourers
• Meet the specific criteria of this sub-category.

Health Professionals

The Saskatchewan health professionals sub-category is aimed at skilled workers who:

• Have been employed full-time in Saskatchewan under a temporary work permit for a minimum of six months as a:
  – Physician
  – Nurse
  – Other health professional
• Meet the criteria specified for this sub-category.

Hospitality Sector Project

The hospitality sector project is for foreign workers seeking permanent residency, who:

• Presently working in Saskatchewan under a temporary work permit facilitated by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
• Have been employed for a minimum of six months (780 hours) with an SINP Hospitality-approved employer.
• Working in one of the following positions:
  – Food/Beverage Server (NOC 6513)
  – Food Counter Attendant/Kitchen Helper (NOC 6711)
  – Housekeeping/Cleaning Staff (NOC 6731)
• Meet the criteria outlined for this sub-category.

Long-Haul Truck Driver Project

The long-haul truck driver project sub-category is designed for long-haul truck drivers who:

• Intend to work for an approved trucking company in Saskatchewan under a temporary work permit issued by RCC, based upon a positive LMIA from the Government of Canada.
• Meet the criteria specified for this sub-category.

Students

The Saskatchewan students sub-category is designed for individuals who:

• Graduated from a Saskatchewan-based institute or a recognized post-secondary educational institution.
• Have completed at least 6 months (or 780 hours) of paid employment in Saskatchewan.
• Hold a current permanent full-time job offer in the field of study from a Saskatchewan employer.
• Meet the specific criteria of this sub-category.

Saskatchewan Business Immigration Programs

The Saskatchewan Business Immigration category welcomes international graduates from a local post-secondary institution and entrepreneurs aiming to establish a business in the province. The Farm Owner and Operator category is designed for experienced farmers aspiring to own and operate a farm in Saskatchewan.

Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)

The Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) is a territorial initiative aimed at nominating prospective immigrants looking to establish themselves economically in Yukon. This program collaborates with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to identify eligible candidates for permanent residency. With a population of approximately 30,000 residents, Yukon’s job market is currently facing a significant demand for foreign skilled workers to address the needs in both skilled and semi-skilled occupations.

YNP Program Streams

The Yukon Nominee Program offers the following streams:

Critical Impact Worker: The Yukon Critical Impact Worker stream is designed for qualified workers with semi-skilled work experience who have a valid job offer from a Yukon employer. This stream provides them with a chance to obtain a provincial nomination. If nominated through this stream, candidates can then apply directly for Canadian permanent residence through IRCC.

Skilled Worker: The Yukon Skilled Worker stream provides foreign nationals who possess skilled work experience and hold a valid job offer from a Yukon employer the chance to obtain a provincial nomination. Securing a provincial nomination through this stream enables the candidate to apply directly for Canadian permanent residence through IRCC.

Express Entry: The Yukon Express Entry stream is a pathway for those who have an active Express Entry profile and a valid job offer from a Yukon employer. It allows them to apply for a provincial nomination from Yukon. This program is that it’s in sync with the federal Express Entry system, which means that if you are successful, your immigration application will be processed faster.

Yukon Community Program (includes both Critical Impact Worker and the Skilled Worker stream): The Yukon Community Program (YCP) was created to offer flexibility to employers in Yukon’s communities to manage the seasonal patterns of employment in the territory. While the primary focus is on enhancing retention and economic growth in communities outside of Whitehorse. However, employers in Whitehorse are also eligible to apply. The program’s goal is to foster a sustainable labor market in areas outside of Whitehorse by attracting workers who have a clear intention to establish permanent residency in an eligible community.

Understanding PNP Application Options

The way you apply depends on the particular Provincial Nominee Program stream you are interested in. You can either follow the non-Express Entry route or choose the Express Entry system for your application.

As part of the process, you will need to undergo a medical exam and obtain a police clearance certificate. These checks are essential for all applicants, regardless of where you plan to live in Canada.

Non-Express Entry 

The Non-Express Entry route is often chosen by individuals who have been nominated by a specific province or territory due to their qualifications and potential contributions to that region. While the process may take a bit longer, it offers a valuable pathway to Canadian permanent residence for those who meet the provincial requirements.

This outlines the application process for the PNP through a route that does not include Express Entry. The PNP application process consists of two stages:

First, you need to choose the province or territory in Canada where you intend to settle and then apply to them for a nomination. Your application will be evaluated based on two key factors:

• The immigration requirements and priorities of that particular province or territory.
• Your genuine intention to live there.

Once a province or territory nominates you, the next step is to apply to IRCC for permanent residence. Your application will be reviewed in accordance with Canadian immigration laws.

Eligibility Criteria

To seek nomination as a provincial nominee, you need to satisfy the following conditions:

• Fulfill the minimum requirements of a non-Express Entry stream offered by the province or territory.
• Receive a nomination under that specific stream.

Express Entry

Within the online Express Entry process, there are two ways to submit your application:

Option 1

• Initiate contact with the province or territory and request a nomination under an Express Entry stream.
• If the province or territory agrees to nominate you, create an Express Entry profile (or update your existing one) and demonstrate your nomination.

Option 2

• Begin by creating an Express Entry profile and indicating your interest in specific provinces and territories.
• If a province or territory expresses interest by sending a “notification of interest” to your profile, directly contact them.
• Apply to their Express Entry stream.
• If you are nominated, the province or territory will send you an electronic nomination certificate, and you need to accept it.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), you should meet the following conditions:

• Be eligible for one of the PNP programs offered by the province or territory you are interested in.
• Secure a nomination from the province or territory.
• Meet the requirements for one of the three Express Entry programs:
  – Federal Skilled Worker Program
  – Federal Skilled Trades Program
  – Canadian Experience Class

Prior to submitting your application through Express Entry, it’s essential to review the eligibility criteria for both:

• The PNP program of the province or territory where you intend to reside and work.
• The specific Express Entry program you intend to apply for.

What are the Costs Associated with PNP Immigration?

The expenses related to immigrating through a PNP typically range from $2,300 to $4900 CAD, depending on the specific PNP program you choose. It’s important to note that certain provinces do not impose processing fees on applicants, while others, such as Ontario, charge fees of up to $1,500 CAD.

Biometrics

It is a vital part of certain immigration applications, enhancing security and confirming your identity during the process. It’s essential to follow the specific instructions provided by the immigration authorities when completing your biometrics. Here are the associated costs:

Other costs

Language tests: Approximately $300 on average.
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) fees (if required): Approximately $200 on average.
Medical examination fees: Around $450 for adults and $250 for children on average.
Police clearance certificates: Approximately $100 per country.

Provincial Nominee Programs and Their Impact on Express Entry

Many provinces and territories in Canada have established streams that are integrated with the federal Express Entry selection system. These connections lead to “enhanced” nominations, granting nominees an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. A provincial nomination stands as the most influential factor in the CRS, essentially ensuring that the nominee secures an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in a subsequent draw from the Express Entry pool.

The CRS is a scoring system ranging up to 1,200 points, which determines who is eligible for an ITA for permanent residency. In the majority of Express Entry draws, these 600 bonus points substantially enhance the applicant’s chances of receiving an ITA. For individuals seeking a provincial nomination through an enhanced PNP stream, the initial step involves creating an Express Entry profile and entering the pool. This strategic move can significantly boost their chances of obtaining an ITA.

Wrap-Up: PNP – Your Gateway to a Thriving Canadian Future

In the vast landscape of Canadian immigration, the PNP stands as the lighthouse of possibility for those who wish to call Canada home. With each province and territory sculpting its distinct immigration streams, PNPs offer tailored pathways to permanent residence. Whether you are a skilled worker, an entrepreneur, or a recent graduate, these programs open doors to economic growth and fulfilling lives in Canada. So, as you embark on your quest for Canadian permanent residence, remember that the PNP journey is as diverse as the nation itself, offering opportunities as unique as the provinces that host them.

FAQs on PNP Canada

Here are some commonly asked questions and answers about PNP in Canada, shedding light on the pathways to Canadian permanent residence:

Q. What is PNP in Canada?
A. PNPs are immigration pathways available in Canadian provinces and territories. These programs allow the regions to nominate individuals for Canadian permanent residence based on their specific economic and demographic needs.

Q. What are the different streams available within PNPs?
A. PNPs may include streams for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, investors, and other immigrant categories. Each province or territory in Canada offers its own set of streams and criteria.

Q. Which PNP program is easiest?
A. The Ontario Immigration Nominee Program (OINP), also known as the Ontario Provincial Nominee Program (OPNP), is known for providing promising opportunities to those seeking Canadian permanent residency. And is regarded as a convenient route to achieve PR in Canada.

Q. Can provinces independently grant permanent resident status through PNP?
A. No, all decisions regarding Canadian permanent residence must be approved at the national level by the federal government. Canada’s provinces cannot independently grant permanent resident status.

Q. How can I get PNP from India?
A. Acquiring permanent resident status through a PNP involves a multi-step procedure. Initially, you must apply for a provincial nomination from your chosen province. After your provincial nomination is approved, you’ll need to submit a subsequent application for Canadian permanent resident status.

We trust that this “PNP Canada” article has provided you with valuable insights. To stay well-informed about Canadian immigration, be sure to regularly follow LooneyTooney.ca. By staying connected, you can gain access to valuable information and remain up-to-date on the latest developments.

Explore our detailed guides:

• Express Entry System
• How to Increase CRS Score for Express Entry and Secure PR?
• PR Canada: Benefits, Eligibility, Application Steps & More
• How to Move to Another Province After PNP?