Individuals who do not meet the fundamental criteria for a Canadian PR visa will be invited to join the Express Entry Pool to progress to the final stage. The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in Canada enables provinces to select the immigrants they need for their regions, offering candidates the opportunity to become permanent residents.
Having a valid Provincial nomination enhances your likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), and you can apply for a Permanent Residency visa once you receive the ITA.
Processing Time Of The Provincial Nominee Program
The processing duration of an application through Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs depends significantly on whether it was submitted through an Express Entry-linked PNP stream or another stream not associated with Express Entry.
Applicants should expect a processing time for their initial application to the province and a separate processing time for their final application to the federal government for permanent residency. Most provinces have streamlined processing times, often taking a few months if not weeks. Express Entry-linked applications generally maintain a six-month government processing period. On the federal level, non-Express Entry connected applications, commonly referred to as paper-based applications, typically require 1-2 years for processing.
Process Of Submitting An Application Through This Program
In Canada, the federal government, rather than the provincial government, makes all final decisions regarding immigration.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) involve a two-step process.
Firstly, applicants need to submit an application to the province for a provincial nomination.
Upon approval by the province, the next step is to apply for Canadian permanent resident status with the federal government.
Here is a step-by-step guide for applying to your preferred PNP:
Complete the application and submit it to the province or territory.
If your application is complete and meets eligibility criteria, you will receive an official Provincial Nomination certificate, allowing you to proceed to the next phase.
Submit your application for permanent residence:
If nominated through an Express Entry-aligned PNP, you can apply through Express Entry. Otherwise, a paper application is required.
Some PNP streams operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while others may require candidates to submit an Expression of Interest form in advance. Additionally, certain PNP streams function independently of the federal Express Entry immigration system (referred to as “base” streams), while others are coordinated with Express Entry.
Provinces That Are A Part Of PNP
The Canadian provinces participating in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) include:
Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program
Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
Nova Scotia Nominee Program
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)