As a new immigrant to Canada, you must have wondered how to get a PNP nomination while exploring your options, right?  While it may seem elusive, getting a PNP nomination is not difficult if you have the right information.

To get a PNP nomination to immigrate to Canada, you’ll need to meet the requirements of the province or territory you’re interested in. Each province and territory has its own list of criteria, so you’ll need to check the website for the one you want to apply to. Generally, you’ll need to have a certain level of education, work experience, job offer, or family connection in order to be eligible.

In this blog, we’ll look at all the details related to Canadian PNP plans and how to get PNP Nomination. So stay tuned if you are interested. 

What Is the Provincial Nominee Program, and How Does It Work?

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is one of the most popular ways of immigrating to Canada. The process allows provinces and regions to nominate individuals with the skills and experience needed to fill local labour market needs.

The program aims to attract skilled workers who will contribute to the economy of the province or territory where they settle.

The Canadian government has set a target of 260,000 immigrants per year. The PNP helps provinces achieve this target by admitting as many as 60,000 immigrants each year who meet the criteria set out by each province.

The PNP helps provinces fill gaps in their local labour markets by bringing in skilled workers. It does this by creating new streams of immigration and making it easier for provinces to nominate individuals for permanent residence.

You can select any one of the following streams:

  • Business Immigration Stream
  • Student Stream
  • Skilled Person Stream
  • Semi-Skilled Person Stream

Also, the PNP is a point-based immigration system. Each applicant is given a score based on the factors, such as education, skills, work experience, and language skills, which are relevant to their application. The score (maximum 600) determines whether or not an applicant can be invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada. 

The program consists of two programs:

Provincial Nominee Program Eligibility Criteria

The PNP is mainly designed to help employers address specific labour shortages while providing skilled workers with a fast and direct pathway to permanent residence.

The PNP allows each province and territory in Canada to select immigrants who will contribute the most to their local economy. In order to qualify for this program, applicants must meet certain criteria set by the province or territory where they wish to settle.

Thus, if you wish to immigrate to Canada as a skilled worker, you must know all the Provincial Nominee Program eligibility criteria (PNP).

The list of PNP requirements varies according to provinces and territories. You can find them on the official website of each province or territory. 

Some common requirements for PNP include:

  • Age: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of application;
  • Work experience: You should have at least one year of full-time paid work experience in the last 10 years;
  • Language proficiency: You should have adequate knowledge of English or French language.
  • Education: You should have completed secondary education or its equivalent;
  • Financial capacity: You should be able to support yourself and any dependents without working in Canada;
  • Security clearance: Pass all required security clearances, including criminal background checks, medical examinations, and police checks.
  • Other Requirements: Applicants must meet any other requirements specific to your province of nomination.

Applying for Provincial Nominee Program

how to apply for pnp canada

To apply for a Provincial Nomination in Canada, you must do so directly with the relevant authority in your province or territory of residence. You should contact your local immigration office or embassy to find out exactly how applications are handled in the area before you apply.

Then, you will need to have your application reviewed by the province before they can process your work permit or visa.

If they approve your application, you will submit another application to the federal government for further processing. 

Here is the step-by-step guide to applying for Provincial Nominee Program

Check Your Eligibility

The first step in applying for the Provincial Nominee Program is to check your eligibility. To do this, you will need to determine whether you are eligible for the program by reviewing the criteria for each province.

The criteria for each province vary slightly but usually include factors such as age, education level, language ability, work experience, and employment opportunities in the province. In most cases, if you meet these criteria, you will be eligible to apply for the PNP.

Fill the Application

Once you’ve checked your eligibility, fill in your Express Entry profile with your basic details and upload your documents. Then check that it all looks okay before submitting it online.

The application is divided into three sections: Personal information and identification (including your photo)

  • Employment information (including your resume)
  • Skills and qualifications (including your education and work experience)

Have a PNP Certificate

Before applying for the Provincial Nominee Program, you must have a PNP certificate.

To get one, you must show that you’ve worked in Canada for at least one year before applying for the program. You must also have worked in Canada for at least six months in the last three years.

A PNP certificate is an official document issued by the government of Canada that shows that you are a permanent resident of Canada (landed immigrant). 

It contains your name, date of birth, and information about your immigration status in Canada.

Submit PR Application

If you have received your permanent residence (PR) nomination certificate from the province, you can now submit your application for permanent residence in Canada.

If you’re applying through the federal express entry system, you can submit online. But if you are applying through the PNP, you must contact the province directly to get instructions on how to submit your application.

Permanent residence is the final stage of the Canadian immigration process. After successfully applying for a permanent resident visa, you will get an approval letter from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Once this letter is received, you may apply for your permanent resident card.

Types of Canadian Provincial Nominee Programs

If you are an immigrant and want to settle in Canada, you must know the various Canadian Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) types. These programs are created to help the provinces to attract skilled workers and entrepreneurs to their regions.

The skilled workers nominated by these provincial governments can quickly get a Canadian Permanent Residency or PR card. The PR card allows them to live in Canada as permanent residents and enjoy all the benefits Canadians have access to.

The following are some of the most popular provincial nominee programs:

  • 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

If you want to dig deeper, keep reading.

Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program

The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) is an economic immigration program that seeks to attract foreign workers and investors to the province of Alberta. 

The program offers a fast-track pathway to Canadian permanent residency for eligible candidates who have the skills and experience required to fill labour shortages in the province.

If you are nominated by Alberta, you will need to complete an online application to IRCC. If your application is successful, you will be issued a permanent resident visa. 

The AINP is divided into two main categories.

The Employer-Driven Stream 

The Employer-Driven Stream is for foreign workers who have been offered a permanent job in Alberta

The Strategic Recruitment Stream

The Strategic Recruitment Stream is for skilled workers who have the ability to fill gaps in Alberta’s labour market. 

There are also several sub-categories within these two streams, each with its own eligibility requirements. Interested individuals are encouraged to consult the AINP website for more information on how to apply.

To be eligible for the AINP, you must: 

  • have the skills, education and work experience that will help you succeed in Alberta’s labour market; 
  • be able to successfully establish yourself and your dependents in Alberta; and 
  • intend to live and work permanently in Alberta

Depending on your occupation, there may be other requirements you will need to meet in order to be eligible for the AINP. 

  • Candidates who are already working in Alberta or who have received a job offer from an employer in Alberta may be eligible for the AINP through one of our Employer-Driven Streams or Strategic Recruitment Streams. 
  • Candidates who are not currently working in Alberta may be eligible for the AINP through our Express Entry Stream. 
  • International students who have graduated from a designated Canadian post-secondary institution may also be eligible for the AINP through our International Graduate Category. If you are not sure if you meet the eligibility requirements for any of these streams, we encourage you to explore On The Move Canada for full-fledged information.

British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) is an immigration program that allows skilled and qualified workers to immigrate to British Columbia. 

The program is designed to meet the needs of British Columbia’s economy and to attract people who will contribute to the province’s growth. To be eligible for the BC PNP, applicants must have a valid job offer from a British Columbia employer.

They must also meet the eligibility requirements for one of the program’s streams, which include: 

  • the Express Entry BC stream, 
  • the Skills Immigration stream, 
  • and the Entrepreneur Immigration stream. 

Successful applicants will receive a provincial nomination, which will allow them to apply for permanent residence in Canada. 

The BC PNP also offers a number of programs for entrepreneurs and business owners who are looking to start or expand their businesses in the province. These programs provide support and resources to help candidates with their business plans and help them get started in British Columbia. 

The BC PNP is a popular immigration program, and it has helped many people realize their dream of moving to British Columbia.

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program

manitoba pnp processing time

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is an economic immigration program designed to attract and retain skilled workers in Manitoba. The program allows skilled workers and their families to immigrate to Manitoba through a streamlined process, provided they have the skills and experience required by the province. 

The program offers two streams: the Skilled Worker Stream and the Business Stream.

The Skilled Worker Stream

It is for those who have been offered a job in Manitoba or have skills in high demand in the province. To be eligible, applicants must score at least 60 points on a selection grid. 

It assesses factors such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience. They must also demonstrate that they have the financial resources to support themselves and their families.

The Business Stream 

It is for entrepreneurs who want to start or buy a business in Manitoba. To be eligible, applicants must score at least 60 points on a selection grid that assesses factors such as age, education, business ownership, and investment funds. 

They must also have a detailed business plan and show that they have the financial resources to support themselves and their families. Successful applicants will receive a temporary work permit that allows them to live and work in Manitoba while they establish their business. 

To be eligible for the MPNP, applicants must first pass a language test and then submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the program. Based on their qualifications, applicants will be ranked against other candidates in the pool and invited to apply for a provincial nomination. 

If successful, applicants will receive a letter of introduction from the MPNP, which they can use to apply for permanent residence in Canada. The MPNP is an important economic tool for Manitoba, helping to ensure that the province has the skilled workforce it needs to prosper.

New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program

The New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) is an economic immigration program that selects skilled workers and entrepreneurs who are ready to invest and live in the Canadian province of New Brunswick. 

The NBPNP allows the province to nominate individuals who meet specific economic needs and who have the intention and ability to settle in New Brunswick. Under the NBPNP, there are three main categories: 

  • The Skilled Worker with Family Support category
  • The Skilled Worker category
  • The Entrepreneurial Stream

To be eligible for nomination under any of these categories, candidates must first submit an Expression of Interest profile to the New Brunswick Office of Immigration. 

If they are deemed eligible, they will be invited to submit a complete application. Candidates who are nominated by the province will then need to apply to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence. 

The NBPNP is just one way for skilled workers and entrepreneurs to come to Canada. For more information on other economic immigration programs, please visit the IRCC website. 

Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program

The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) is an immigration program designed to attract skilled workers and entrepreneurs to the province. 

The NLPNP offers a fast-track option for applicants who have been offered a job or who have been approved for self-employment in Newfoundland and Labrador. 

The program also offers an Entrepreneur Stream for experienced business owners and investors who are looking to establish or expand a business in the province. Applicants must meet a number of criteria in order to be eligible for the NLPNP, including a minimum level of work experience, language proficiency, and financial resources. 

If you are interested in immigrating to Newfoundland and Labrador through the NLPNP, contact an immigration lawyer or consultant to learn more about the program and whether you qualify.

Northwest Territories Nominee Program

The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) allows the government of the Northwest Territories to nominate individuals who qualify under one of the NTNP streams for permanent residency in Canada. 

The NWT PNP is part of the Canadian Government’s Express Entry system, and candidates who are nominated by the NWT PNP receive 600 additional points towards their Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. 

The NWT PNP is committed to promoting economic development in the Northwest Territories by supporting businesses and skilled workers who can contribute to the Territorial labour market and economy. 

NTNP offers five streams for skilled workers, business people, and graduates: 

  1. The Skilled Worker Stream helps employers fill labour shortages with highly skilled workers. 
  2. The Business Stream helps entrepreneurs start or buy a business in the NWT. 
  3. The Graduate Stream helps recent graduates from Canadian educational institutions gain experience working in their field in the NWT. 
  4. The Semi-Skilled Worker Stream helps employers fill labour shortages with semi-skilled workers in specific occupations. 
  5. The Aboriginal Determination Stream is for aboriginal people who want to live and work in the NWT but do not meet the criteria of any other stream. 

Nova Scotia Nominee Program

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is a Canadian immigration program that allows Nova Scotia to nominate qualified, skilled workers and experienced business people from around the world who want to settle in the province. 

The NSNP is designed to help meet current, and future workforce needs while also promoting economic growth in Nova Scotia. To be eligible for nomination, candidates must first meet the criteria of one of the NSNP’s three occupation categories: skilled worker, semi-skilled worker, or entrepreneur. 

There are two streams under which candidates may be nominated by the NSNP.

  1. The Halifax Regional Municipality Stream 
  2. The Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry Stream

To be eligible for either stream, candidates must meet certain criteria, such as having a valid job offer from a Nova Scotia employer or having a certain level of work experience in Nova Scotia. 

If you are interested in immigrating to Nova Scotia through the NSNP, you can find more information on the Nova Scotia government website.

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is an economic immigration program that helps Ontario meet its labour market and economic needs. The program allows the province to nominate individuals who are interested in immigrating to Ontario and who meet specific criteria. 

If nominated, individuals must then apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). 

The OINP is divided into two categories.

The Human Capital Priorities Stream 

The Human Capital Priorities Stream is for highly skilled workers who have been selected by the OINP based on their human capital factors such as age, education level, work experience, language skills, etc. 

If you are interested in immigrating to Ontario through the OINP, you can express your interest in the Human Capital Priorities Stream by completing an online form. You will be placed in a pool of eligible candidates and may be invited to apply to the stream if you meet the criteria. 

However, please note that being invited to apply does not guarantee that you will ultimately be nominated or that you will receive permanent resident status. 

The Employer Job Offer In-Demand Skills Stream

The Employer Job Offer In-Demand Skills Stream is for skilled workers who have a full-time job offer from an employer in Ontario in an in-demand occupation. 

If you are interested in immigrating to Ontario through the Employer Job Offer In-Demand Skills Stream, your first step is to find a job with an eligible employer. Once you have found a job that meets the requirements of the stream, your employer can submit a Labour Market Impact Assessment application on your behalf to service Canada. 

If your application is approved, your employer will then need to submit a notice of interest on your behalf to the OINP e-Filing Portal. You will be notified by email if you are invited to apply permanent residency through this stream. 

Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program

The Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) is an immigration program operated by the Canadian province of Prince Edward Island. 

Like others, this program is also designed to attract and retain skilled workers and entrepreneurs who will contribute to the economic growth of the province. 

The PEI PNP offers a number of different immigration streams, each with its own eligibility requirements and application process. Successful applicants will receive a nomination from the PEI government, which will allow them to apply for permanent residence in Canada. 

The PEI PNP is a great option for skilled workers and entrepreneurs who are looking to immigrate to Canada and make a positive contribution to the province.

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is a Provincial Nominee Program designed to attract new immigrants to the Canadian province of Saskatchewan. 

Under the program, prospective immigrants are nominated by the province based on their skills and abilities and then apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The SINP is one of several Provincial Nominee Programs offered by different provinces and territories across Canada. It is a popular choice for many immigrants because it offers a path to permanent residence in a country with a strong economy and high quality of life. 

The program also has relatively low application fees and processing times, making it an attractive option for those looking to immigrate to Canada. If you are interested in applying for the SINP, you can do so through the IRCC website.

Check Out Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program | SINP Canada Step by Step Guide | Immigration to Canada:

Yukon Nominee Program

The Yukon Nominee Program (YNP) is a program run by the Government of Yukon that allows employers in the territory to nominate skilled workers for permanent residency. 

The program is designed to help fill labour shortages in key industries, such as mining, construction, and healthcare. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a full-time job offer from a Yukon employer in an occupation that is listed on the YNP In-Demand Occupations List. 

They must also meet a number of other criteria, including having a minimum level of work experience and being able to demonstrate their skills in English or French. If successful, applicants will receive a nomination from the Yukon government, which they can then use to apply for permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). 

The YNP is just one of many programs across Canada that helps employers to find the skilled workers they need to fill labour shortages.

PNP Processing Time

The processing times for Provincial Nominee Programs in Canada can vary depending on the province or territory you are applying for.

For example, you can expect to wait anywhere between six months and two years for a decision on your application.

The processing time will depend on whether the applicant is eligible under the federal or provincial program, their country of origin, and the specific program they are applying for.

The Canada Express Entry system is the most common and popular way to get a Canada PR. Once you have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI), you must wait for a draw to happen.

A draw happens every two weeks randomly, and you will be notified of your rank if it comes out in your favour.

If you are applying under an occupation stream under the PNP program, your application will be processed within 6–8 months from the date you submit it.

However, if you do not fit into this category and want to apply under one of the other streams (such as skilled worker), it could take up to 2 years before you receive any news on whether or not you have been accepted into Canada.

Migrating to Canada as a Provincial Nominee

Migrating to Canada is a dream of many. Many wish to settle in this beautiful country and make it their home. However, only a few are lucky enough to get an immigration visa.

By participating in this program, applicants can live and work in Canada permanently with minimal processing time and a low application fee.

You can apply to immigrate to Canada as a provincial nominee. Provincial nominees are individuals with skills that are in high demand and are nominated by one of the provinces or territories they wish to live in.

Before applying for permanent residence, you must be nominated by a province or territory of your choice. Once nominated, you can apply for permanent residence through one of two immigration programs.

Express Entry PNP Stream

The Express Entry PNP stream is a subcategory of the Express Entry pool and allows employers to hire foreign nationals with the skills and experience they need in Canada.

It allows a candidate to submit an application for permanent residence based on the Canadian immigration points evaluation system.

Applicants who wish to enter under this stream must meet all requirements and be eligible for at least 600 points. Candidates will then be ranked according to their CRS and human capital scores.

Those who score high enough will be invited to apply for permanent residence through submission to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Non-Express Entry PNP Stream

The Non-Express Entry PNP Stream is a new opportunity created by the federal government to help people who are already living in Canada and skilled workers but don’t meet the Express Entry process.  

Skilled workers may be eligible if a province or territory nominates them or if they are eligible under an international agreement with their country of residence.

No, IELTS is not required for PNP Canada. However, you will likely need to provide proof of English language proficiency in order to be considered for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Canada visa.

Proof of English language proficiency can be demonstrated in a number of ways, including through IELTS scores, TOEFL scores, or other approved tests. You may also be able to demonstrate your proficiency through evidence of previous academic study or work experience in an English-speaking country

If you are not sure whether you will need to provide proof of English language proficiency, it is best to check with the specific provincial PNP program to which you are applying.

FAQs

How can I get PNP without a job offer?

Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. The PNP (Provincial Nominee Program) is a program designed to allow provinces and territories to nominate individuals who they believe will be able to contribute to the Canadian economy and society. 

Each province and territory has its own particular criteria that applicants must meet in order to be considered for nomination. In most cases, having a job offer from a Canadian employer is one of the key requirements. 

That said, there are a few ways that you might be able to get around this requirement. 

1. One possibility is to find a way to get promoted or hired into a position within your current company that would make you eligible for the PNP. 
2. Another option is to look for companies that are willing to sponsor you for a work visa. Finally, you could also try applying for a program that does not require a job offer, such as the Start-Up Visa Program

Ultimately, the best way to find out if you are eligible for the PNP is to contact the province or territory where you would like to live and work. They will be able to give you specific information about their program and what the requirements are.

Is IELTS required for PNP Canada?

No, IELTS is not required for PNP Canada. However, you will likely need to provide proof of English language proficiency in order to be considered for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Canada visa.

Proof of English language proficiency can be demonstrated in a number of ways, including through IELTS scores, TOEFL scores, or other approved tests. You may also be able to demonstrate your proficiency through evidence of previous academic study or work experience in an English-speaking country

If you are not sure whether you will need to provide proof of English language proficiency, it is best to check with the specific provincial PNP program to which you are applying.

What are the fees for PNP?

Fees for the Provincial Nominee Program vary depending on the province or territory. For example, the fee for British Columbia is $2,500, while the fee for Quebec is $1,000.

The Provincial Nominee Program allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who can contribute to the economy of that province or territory. 

Individuals who are nominated through the Provincial Nominee Program must meet certain requirements, such as having a job offer in Canada or being able to support themselves and their family financially.

Does PNP have an age limit?

There is no age limit to apply for the Provincial Nominee Program. However, the program has certain requirements that must be met in order to be eligible, one of which is that the applicant must be of working age. 

“Working age” is typically considered to be 18-59 years old. There are a few exceptions made for those who are younger or older, but most applicants must be within this range.

Final Thoughts

A PNP nomination is an excellent way to get your foot in Canada. If you want to live there and work, this is a great way to do it. It will allow you to get permanent residency and eventually citizenship once you have worked in Canada for several years.

But you should know that it’s not an easy road. You’ll need to be prepared for a challenging application process and be patient while waiting for your interview date. However, if you do all the right things and take advantage of what Canada offers, you could find it well worth the effort!

We hope this guide has been helpful! Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions; we’re here for you.