Provincial nominee programs (PNPs) are pathways to permanent residence in Canada. Almost every Canadian province and territory has its own PNP. You can learn more about each one here:
- Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program
- British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program
- Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program
- New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program
- Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program
- Northwest Territories Nominee Program
- Nova Scotia Nominee Program
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program
- Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program
- Yukon Nominee Program
Each province designs their program to address labour market needs that are specific to its province or territory, so each PNP will have different streams that you may be eligible for.
Provincial nominee programs are aimed at immigrant workers with the skills and experience a province believes they can benefit from. These streams may target recent graduates, business professionals, or skilled and semi-skilled workers. They may also highlight a specific work industry, such as healthcare or tech. Applicants should commit to living and working in the province they apply for a nomination, as successful applicants will be granted permanent resident status.
How to Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program
You can apply for a provincial nominee program in a couple of different ways. You can apply directly to the province, or you can apply via Express Entry.
Applying Directly for a PNP
If you apply for a provincial nominee program directly, you must apply under a province-specific stream and ensure it is not an Express Entry stream. You will need to meet all eligibility requirements of the province and stream you choose to apply to and submit your application.
If you receive a nomination from your province, you must apply online for permanent residence. Your permanent residence application process will require a medical exam and a police check.
An important thing to note about applying directly for a provincial nominee program is that processing times can be long, especially compared to Express Entry. Processing times typically range from 15 to 19 months.
