Provincial Nominee
Program
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), that was launched in 1998, is the primary pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Canada. The PNP is run by almost every province and territory in order to welcome skilled workers from all over the world and grow their local economies.
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and who are interested in settling in a particular province. Individuals are selected based on their skills, education, and work experience to contribute to the economy of a specific province or territory. Each province and territory has its own “streams” (immigration programs) and requirements.
PNP is just one of many programs through which individuals can immigrate to Canada, it can be a good option and is worth considering if you meet the criteria of one of the participating provinces or territories.
Which provinces have provincial nominee programs?
Most Canadian provinces have an agreement with the federal government that allows them to nominate immigrants who want to settle in their province. If you want to come to Canada under a provincial nominee, you must first apply to the province where you want to live and complete the provincial nomination process there. Your application will be considered by the province based on its immigration needs and your genuine desire to settle there.
Here is a list of the provinces and territories currently participating in this program:
- Alberta
- British Columbia
- Manitoba
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia
- Ontario
- Prince Edward Island
- Saskatchewan
- Yukon
You will have to pass a medical exam as well as security and criminal background checks. You must also prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your dependents once you arrive in Canada.
After being nominated by a province or territory, you must submit a separate application for permanent residence with Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). A CIC officer will then evaluate your application in accordance with Canadian immigration laws.
How does the provincial nominee program (PNP) work?
This program is for workers with the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to the economy of a specific province or territory, who wish to live in that province, and who wish to become permanent residents of Canada.
Each province and territory has its own set of “streams” and regulations.
Provinces and territories, for example, may target a particular program stream.
- Students
- Skilled workers
- Semi-skilled workers
Other programs include the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Express Entry system.
Steps in the PNP application for a PR visa:
Apply in the province or region where you desire to settle.
If your profile meets the eligibility criteria, you could be nominated by the province to apply for a PR visa.
Apply for your PR visa after you are nominated by a province.
The criteria for evaluating the PR application vary from province to province.
- Students
- Employer stream
- Skilled workers
- Semi-skilled workers
- Self employed
Other programs include the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Express Entry system.
Seeking a faster path to permanent residency in Canada? Consider the Provincial Nominee Program. Gunness & Associates can assist you every step of the way. Our team of seasoned immigration experts will provide customized support throughout the application process. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make Canada your home. Reach out to us today and let us help turn your dream into a reality.