PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM

With Canada opening its doors to potential immigrants, every Canadian province and territory have established their very own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

PNP: A Quick Overview

In general, the Provincial Nominee Program involves the nomination of qualified individuals desiring to immigrate and permanently settle within a particular province in Canada. 

With the notable exception of Quebec and two territories which have their own immigrant selection system, majority of participating provinces and territories have signed agreements with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allowing them to select immigrants based on certain eligibility criteria. It is through the PNP of each province or territory that they have acquired immigrants whose skills and talents are a welcome addition to the Canadian labour force and its growing economy.

The PNP of each province and territory has been tailored to meet their specific needs. This will enable them to select nominees with a greater chance of settling within the province and be able to contribute to the community’s progress. As of the year 2015, majority of the PNPs have an immigration stream that is aligned with the federal Express Entry Immigration Selection System (also known as “Enhanced Nominations”). 

The Basics

It is very important that every potential immigrant first receive a Provincial Nomination Certificate from the province or territory where they intend to immigrate. After successfully obtaining this nomination certificate, it is only then that an application for PR is submitted to the IRCC. It is vital to mention that PNP processing times vary among the various Canadian Immigration Visa offices.

Earlier, we have mentioned that Quebec is not a participant in the PNP. Through a series of agreements between the governments of Canada and Quebec, the province has established its own immigrant selection criteria.

If you and your family are planning to immigrate to Canada, it is highly recommended that you contact our immigration specialists at AccessPoint Immigration Services. We will assist you in determining if you meet the immigration criteria and requirements of the province or territory where you intend to settle. We shall also check for your eligibility into the Express Entry System. It is our desire that you fulfil your dream of immigrating to Canada.