The Most Asked Questions About Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a popular immigration pathway that allows provinces to select and nominate eligible candidates for permanent residency. As one of the key components of Canada’s immigration system, the PNP generates a lot of interest and curiosity among prospective immigrants. In this blog, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program to provide a comprehensive understanding of this immigration option.

The most asked questions about PNP

How to Get Provincial Nomination for Express Entry?

The Provincial Nominee Program plays a crucial role in the Express Entry system. Suppose a candidate receives a nomination from a province through an Express Entry-aligned PNP stream. In that case, they earn additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, significantly increasing their probability of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in a subsequent Express Entry draw. To get nominated through an Express Entry-aligned stream, follow these steps:

• Research the PNP streams aligned with Express Entry: Each province offers its own streams aligned with Express Entry. Research the eligibility requirements and select the province best suits your skills and qualifications.
• Create an Express Entry profile: Create an Express Entry profile and indicate your interest in being considered for provincial nomination.
• Express your interest in the province: Once you have an Express Entry profile, you must express your interest in the province or territory you wish to settle in. This is usually done through the Expression of Interest (EOI) system.
• Receive a Notification of Interest (NOI): If the province finds your profile suitable, you may receive a Notification of Interest (NOI) inviting you to apply for provincial nomination.
• Submit a complete application: Once you receive an NOI, prepare and submit a complete application for a provincial nomination, providing all the required documents and meeting the specific stream’s criteria.
• Get nominated: If your application is successful, you will receive a provincial nomination certificate, boosting your CRS score in the Express Entry pool.

How Long Does it Take to Get PR After PNP?

The processing time for permanent residency (PR) after obtaining a provincial nomination varies based on several factors, including the province, the stream, and the individual’s circumstances. Generally, the processing time for PR applications through Express Entry-aligned PNPs is faster than non-Express Entry PNPs.

For Express Entry-aligned PNPs, the time between receiving the provincial nomination and obtaining PR can be approximately six months or less. Once you have a provincial nomination, you must submit a complete application for permanent residency to the federal government through IRCC, and they will conduct health and security checks before issuing your PR status.

For non-Express Entry PNPs, the processing time may take longer, as the specific province or territory must review the application and then send it to IRCC for further processing.

 

What is Non-Express Entry PNP?

Non-Express Entry PNPs are streams that operate independently of the federal Express Entry system. These streams are designed for individuals who may not meet the eligibility criteria for Express Entry but have the skills and qualifications required by the province or territory.

The application process for non-Express Entry PNPs typically involves the following steps:

• Submit an EOI or application directly to the province or territory you are interested in.
• The province reviews your application based on its specific criteria and needs.
• If you meet the requirements, you may receive a provincial nomination.
• After receiving the nomination, you can apply for permanent residency with the federal government through IRCC.

Non-Express Entry PNPs offer opportunities for candidates with lower CRS scores or those with occupations not listed in the federal Express Entry system.

 

What is PNP Draw?

PNP draws are periodic events where provinces and territories issue invitations to eligible candidates to apply for provincial nomination. As the federal Express Entry draws, provinces conduct them based on their economic and labour market needs.

During a PNP draw, candidates with profiles in the Expression of Interest (EOI) pool may receive Notifications of Interest (NOIs), inviting them to apply for provincial nomination. These candidates can then submit complete applications for provincial nomination to the respective province or territory.

 

Can someone get into Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program without Job Offer?

While some PNP streams require a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, others do not require a job offer. For instance, Express Entry-aligned PNPs often do not mandate a job offer. Candidates with solid language skills, high levels of education, and work experience in an in-demand occupation may be eligible for certain PNP streams without a job offer.

What is PNP Full Form?

PNP stands for “Provincial Nominee Program.” It is an immigration initiative that allows provinces and territories in Canada to nominate eligible candidates for permanent residency based on their specific labour and economic market needs.

Can I choose any province for the PNP?

Yes, you can express interest in any province or territory offering a PNP that matches your qualifications and experience. However, you must meet the eligibility criteria of the specific province to be considered.

What is the difference between Express Entry and Non-Express Entry PNPs?

Express Entry-aligned PNPs are closely linked to the federal Express Entry system and provide additional CRS points to candidates with a provincial nomination. Non-Express Entry PNPs, on the other hand, operate independently of the federal system and have their application processes.

What are the eligibility criteria for the PNP?

The eligibility criteria vary among provinces and territories, but common factors include relevant work experience, education, language proficiency, and a genuine intention to settle in the nominating province. Specific streams may have additional requirements based on occupation or family connections.

What are the benefits of the PNP?

The PNP offers various benefits, such as addressing regional labour market needs, driving economic growth, supporting balanced development, and tailoring immigration to suit the priorities of each province. Nominated candidates also receive additional CRS points, improving their odds of obtaining an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

Upshot

Do you have any other questions related to Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program, or are you struggling with the program? If yes, then you do not have to struggle anymore. All you have to do is contact IPPC Visas, and we assure you that we will solve all your queries and help you with your immigration process.