To spread immigration all across Canada, the government created the PNP program, also known as Provincial Nomination Program. It has an enormous success and is currently the leading economic class pathway for Canadian permanent residency.
The PNP program has demonstrated massive success during the last years. In fact, it has welcomed more than 80.000 newcomers each year and will continue to be the top economic class pathway in 2022 and 2023.
What is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
The PNP program enables provinces and territories in Canada to nominate individuals they consider can fulfill their economic and local needs. After being selected, candidates can apply for Canadian PR to settle in that specific province.
International candidates who want a provincial nomination have two options to get it:
- Apply directly to a province via a base stream
- Receive the nomination under the Express Entry system.
PNP Program – Base Stream
Those who want Canadian permanent residence through the PNP program can do it by applying directly to a province. As an international candidate, is up to you to decide which is the best province. It will depend on lifestyle, career, and money budget, among other factors.
Each province has its own eligibility criteria or steps on their official websites. Once the candidate submits the application, the province reviews and decides whether to give or not the provincial nomination.
If the candidate receives the nomination, they submit it along with their permanent residence application to IRCC. In the end, IRCC is in charge of granting PR.
Also, candidates in the Express Entry pool can apply for the PNP base stream to seek an additional program for Permanent Residency.
PNP Nomination – Via Express Entry
The PNP program also allows candidates eligible for Express Entry to apply for a provincial nomination. So, suppose a candidate qualifies for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Then, that person can create an express entry profile. Once it is made, provincial governments can access the pool to find suitable candidates.
Therefore, if a province finds an attractive candidate, they can send a notification of interest to invite that person to apply for a provincial nomination.
PNP Invitations To Apply
After a person receives an invitation to apply and accepts, they need to complete and submit a PNP application separately.
Then, suppose the eligibility requirements are met. In that case, the candidate will receive a nomination letter that will add 600 CRS points to their Express Entry profile. Indeed, those extra points are a great advantage since it almost guarantees they will receive an invitation to apply (ITA) from IRCC.
To apply for a PNP program under this Express Entry option, the steps are:
Process For Express Entry
- Step 1: Ensure you are eligible for the Express Entry and PNP.
- Step 2: Build an Express Entry profile.
- Step 3: Wait to see if you receive a notification of interest for a province. If you do, accept it and submit your provincial nomination application.
- Step 4: Receive the provincial nomination and add it to your Express Entry profile. It will give you 600 additional CRS points.
- Step 5: After receiving an Express Entry invitation for your permanent residence application from IRCC, submit it.
- Step 6: Go for a medical exam and a police check.
- Step 7: Once approved, you will receive your PR card.
Overall, the PNP program has many advantages. For example, a PNP nomination via the Express Entry program will increase your chances of obtaining an invitation to apply for permanent residence. Also, it will give you a faster processing time (6 months) than the base PNP stream (24+months).
Express Entry Fees
For applying under the Express Entry system, there are fees to consider. Firstly, the application with IRCC starts at CAD 1,365. Then, you may need to add the cost of biometrics, language tests and educational credential assessments.
Also, there are more fees when immigrating with a spouse or dependent children. You can check the link here for the new costs.
PNP Costs
Also, if you apply with a PNP, you will basically pay application fees twice.
- Once to a province for processing your PNP application.
- Then to IRCC to process your permanent residence application.
However, there are some provinces and territories that don’t charge for provincial nomination:
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Northwest Territories
- Nova Scotia
- Yukon
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Fees
- Alberta $500
- British Columbia $1,150
- Manitoba $500
- New Brunswick $250
- Ontario $1,500
- Prince Edward Island $300
- Quebec $844
- Saskatchewan $350
To sum up, applying for the PNP program or accepting provincial nominations may be an excellent opportunity for some international candidates. However, each profile is unique and different. Then candidates should look for their best option before applying.
PNP FAQ’s
Wich is the easiest PNP?
Again, each individual has different circumstances. Then, it is critical to search all the options and decide which can be the best. We strongly recommend reaching us for an appointment with our immigration lawyers or consultants to make the best decision.
Can I immigrate with my family via the PNP program?
Yes, your close family members can move with you, and they will also receive Canadian PR.
So, if you have a spouse or common-law partner and dependent children (under 22 years), they can come and get PR via the PNP Program.
Do I Need a Language Test for the PNP Program?
As we mentioned before, each PNP stream has its requirements. It also applies to language standards.
Then, you need to take one of the official language tests to qualify for the PNP program.
- English
- CELPIP General
- IELTS General
- French
- TEF Canada
- TCF Canada
Is it Possible to Apply for Express Entry and PNP at the Same Time?
Yes, and it is one of the most effective ways to make your profile visible to the provincial and federal governments.
So, if you receive and accept the invitation, you should submit and complete your PNP application. Once approved, you will receive 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points under the Express Entry system.
