One of the ways through which foreigners can obtain permanent residency is to enter one of the provincial nominee programs (PNPs) in Canada. This immigration scheme implies obtaining direct authorization to relocate to Canada from provincial authorities based on a specific set of criteria.
Below, our immigration lawyers in Canada explain how you can access the PNP in Canada. Our specialists will help you move to the desired province through this scheme.
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Provincial Nominee Programs in Canada – provinces and territories
The PNP program in Canada is available in:
- Alberta;
- British Columbia;
- Manitoba;
- New Brunswick;
- Newfoundland and Labrador;
- Northwest Territories;
- Nova Scotia;
- Ontario;
- Prince Edward Island;
- Quebec;
- Saskatchewan;
- Yukon.
Apart from these, there are also the provinces of Nunavut and Quebec that have their own PNP schemes.
If you want to migrate to Canada under one of the PNPs, our lawyers can offer detailed information on the requirements applicable in each province or territory.
Who can enter this Canadian program?
Provincial nominee programs in Canada address the following categories of immigrants:
- workers who meet specific qualifying requirements, such as skills, education, and experience that contribute to the local economy;
- people who want to live in the province or territory of choice;
- people interested in obtaining permanent residency in Canada.
Based on these categories, applicants are invited to enter one of the streams available under the PNP. They are usually addressed to:
- students;
- skilled workers;
- less experienced workers;
- business people.
From this point of view, applicants can choose between:
- Express Entry Streams;
- non-Express Entry Schemes.
Feel free to inquire about all these aspects with our immigration lawyers in Canada to make an informed decision.
How to apply for one of the PNPs in Canada
Here are the steps to complete to enter a PNP program in Canada:
- create a profile on the Canadian immigration authorities’ site and choose the desired stream;
- apply for the suitable PNP;
- obtain the entry nomination;
- confirm the entry and wait for the invitation to apply for permanent residency.
Please note that before being accepted into a program, you must also pass the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), a point-based evaluation system through which you can confirm your eligibility for the chosen scheme.
Our Canadian immigration law firm can guide you when going through the CRS to reach an optimum number of points.
Documents required to enter a Canadian PNP scheme
Here are some general documents that are required when filing for one of the Provincial Nominee Programs in Canada:
- proof of work experience (especially if you come here as an employee);
- language test results (English or French depending on the chosen program);
- an educational credential assessment (ECA) report;
- proof of having sufficient funds to sustain your stay in Canada until you start working or gaining income by other means;
- identification documents;
- status paperwork (if you have lived in Canada before and have a residence permit).
Apart from these, each province has its own documentation requirements. In addition, you can rely on us if you want to apply for the Nunavut or Quebec PNPs.
How many foreigners does Canada plan on welcoming?
According to recent information, in 2025, Canada wants to welcome:
- 367,750 temporary workers;
- 305,900 new students;
- 395,000 permanent residents.
The PNP is also a great way to immigrate to Canada from the USA. With the help of our lawyers, you can also apply for citizenship in Canada after getting permanent residency.
Feel free to contact us if you want to enroll in the PNP in Canada.
