Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) explained
How Canada's Provincial Nominee Programs work, the main streams, and how a nomination can lead to permanent residence.
- Each province and territory runs its own nomination program.
- Streams target specific occupations, ties or local labour needs.
- An enhanced nomination adds 600 CRS points in Express Entry.
- A nomination means you intend to live in that province.
What the PNP is
The Provincial Nominee Programs let provinces and territories nominate candidates who meet their economic needs. Most provinces run several streams, each with its own criteria.
A nomination can be the fastest way to permanent residence for candidates whose CRS score is below the general Express Entry cut-off.
Enhanced vs base streams
Enhanced streams are aligned with Express Entry: you must be in the pool, and the nomination is applied to your profile. Base streams are separate applications not linked to Express Entry.
Enhanced nominations are usually faster and cleaner for Express Entry candidates.
Common streams
Typical streams include skilled worker, international graduate and entrepreneur categories, often with occupation-specific draws.
Some provinces target in-demand occupations, while others prioritise candidates who already study or work in the province.
How a nomination helps
An enhanced nomination adds 600 CRS points, effectively guaranteeing an invitation in the next draw. A base nomination leads directly to a permanent residence application.
The obligation is that you intend to live and work in the nominating province.
How to apply
Research the streams that match your occupation and profile, then apply directly to the province. You can stay in the Express Entry pool and pursue PNP streams at the same time.
Requirements vary a lot between provinces, so confirm the current criteria on the province's official page.