Most provinces and territories in Canada can nominate immigrants through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). These immigrants must have the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to the economy of that province or territory, and must want to live there.

Each province and territory has its own “streams” (immigration programs that target certain groups) and criteria for their PNP. For example, in a program stream, provinces and territories may target students, business people, skilled workers, or semi-skilled workers.

How does the program work?

Candidates must first be entered into the Express Entry System with their CRS score, then apply to a PNP program (which is a separate application). You will remain in the Express Entry pool for a year, or until you are selected to apply for Permanent Residence. After the province processes your PNP application (typically 3-4 months), you will be granted 600 points to add to your Express Entry score. With these additional 600 points, you will be selected and invited to apply for PR at the very next draw, which occurs every 2 weeks.

Benefits of applying under PNP program

​Once a Provincial Nominee Certificate is granted, you receive 600 point that goes towards your Express Entry score. On average, individuals without a PNP certificate will score between 300 and 500. The most recent cut-off scores to be selected for Express Entry have been in the 400 – 500 range. Individuals with a PNP Certificate automatically are granted 600 points to add to their Express Entry score of 300-500 points. The PNP certificate would give a final Express Entry score above 900 which is significantly higher than the current cutoff selection score of around 400-500 points.