What Is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?

If you are looking to immigrate to Canada, there are several options you will want to explore. While Canada’s federal government makes all final immigration decisions, Canada’s provincial governments play a big role in certain immigration pathways. For instance, the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are a central part of Canada’s immigration policy. It is estimated that over 200,000 people will obtain permanent residence status in Canada through the PNPs between 2019 and 2021, making it one of the fastest-growing pathways to Canadian immigration. To foster the prominence of this program, Canada’s federal government has continued to increase the number of annual allocations granted to PNPs.

What is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?

All thirteen of Canada’s provinces and territories run their own immigration programs. These programs are referred to as Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). The fact that each province and territory is empowered to run the program means that they are able to tailor the program to reflect the unique needs of their varying populations and economies. With the PNPs, the various provinces and territories are granted the opportunity to nominate individuals as well as families who wish to settle in their particular province or territory. The nomination is based on criteria set forth by the province.

As the economies and demographics of each province and territory in Canada are unique, each PNP is designed to reflect these differences. Some provinces may wish to prioritize recruiting people skilled in a certain occupation. Others might prioritize bringing in people who are proficient in French. To participate in a PNP, you will need to first apply to the province for your provincial nomination. Qualifying for the nomination will depend on whether you have the skills and work experience, as well as the education level necessary to settle in Canada and financially support yourself along with your family. Furthermore, you must be able to meet the labor market needs of the province and Canada as a whole. The province or territory will need to approve your application.

Because PNPs are run by the provinces and territories, but final immigration decisions rest with the federal government, there is a second part to a PNP application. Once approved by a province, you need to submit an additional application to Canada’s federal government in order to obtain Canadian permanent resident status. You must apply within a specific period of time. The province will inform you as to whether you must apply through Canada’s Express Entry system or through the regular application process. If your PNP requires Express Entry, you will need to complete an Express Entry profile and be accepted into the Express Entry pool, if you are not already in the pool.

Immigration Law Attorneys

If you are looking to move to Canada, talk to the dedicated immigration attorneys at Nachman, Phulwani, Zimovcak Law Group, P.C. We can help you evaluate your options. Additionally, we can provide sound legal counsel and support to aid in successfully navigating the Canadian immigration system. Contact us today.