IMMIGRATE TO CANADA
EXPRESS ENTRY
Express Entry is a selection system the Canadian Government implemented to expedite the Permanent Resident visa process for various Economic Immigration Programs. It is an electronic process with online submissions which allows for quicker processing times, averaging around 6 months.
The following programs are processed by Express Entry:
FEDERAL SKILLED WORKER CLASS (FSW)
All Economic Class programs are designed to bring immigrants to Canada who can establish themselves economically in the country.
The Federal Skilled Worker program is part of the Economic Class and this is managed by the Express Entry program. Approximate processing times are currently 6 months once an Invitation to Apply (ITA) is received.
To be eligible to apply, you must meet the program requirements.
Federal Skilled Worker program requirements:
You must also score a minimum of 67 points under the following IRCC selection factors in order to be eligible to apply:
Selection Factor Scoring and Criteria
Final Criteria before getting Permanent Residence:
Once selected from the Express Entry Pool and awarded with an Invitation to Apply (ITA), candidates and their dependants must also undergo medical examinations and obtain security clearances as part of the Canadian immigration application process.
Need Help?
Contact us for more information about the Federal Skilled Worker application process or for assistance in preparing an application.
CANADA EXPERIENCE CLASS (CEC)
All Economic Class programs are designed to bring immigrants to Canada who can establish themselves economically in the country.
The Canadian Experience Class is part of the Economic Class and this is managed by the Express Entry program. Approximate processing times are currently 6 months once an Invitation to Apply (ITA) is received.
To be eligible to apply, you must meet the program requirements.
Canadian Experience Class requirements:
Final Criteria before getting Permanent Residence:
Once selected from the Express Entry Pool and awarded with an Invitation to Apply (ITA), candidates and their dependants must also undergo medical examinations and obtain security clearances as part of the Canadian immigration application process.
Valid option for International Students
The Canadian Experience Class offers students with Canadian work experience the fastest and simplest path to achieving permanent residence.
After completing a program or course of study at a Canadian educational institution, international graduates are able to remain in the country and work on post-graduate work permits. Once a graduate obtains at least one year of Canadian work experience in a skilled, professional or technical field, they may then become eligible to apply under the Canadian Experience Class.
Need Help?
Contact us for more information about the Canadian Experience Class application process or for assistance in preparing an application.
FEDERAL SKILLS TRADES CLASS (FST)
All Economic Class programs are designed to bring immigrants to Canada who can establish themselves economically in the country.
The Federal Skilled Trade Class is part of the Economic Class and this is managed by the Express Entry program. Approximate processing times are currently 6 months once an Invitation to Apply (ITA) is received.
To be eligible to apply, you must meet the program requirements.
Federal Skilled Trades Class requirements:
These NOC B level occupations will be eligible for this program:
This amounts to a total of 90 eligible occupations. These eligible occupations fall into the following general categories:
Certification or Offer of Employment
Trade certification in Canada falls under provincial jurisdiction. Each province outlines which professions will be regulated and establishes regulatory bodies where applicable. Provincial certification is often difficult to obtain from outside Canada and accordingly this program will be most beneficial to tradespeople who obtain an approved offer of employment from a recognized employer, or who are already working in Canada as temporary foreign workers. Not all trades are regulated in all of the provinces. Where a trade is not regulated, an offer of employment becomes mandatory.
Tradespeople who obtain an approved offer of employment for one year or more in their trade from a Canadian employer are also eligible to apply. The offer of employment will be evaluated to ensure that it is an eligible trade and that the hiring will have a neutral effect on the Canadian Labour Market.
Final Criteria before getting Permanent Residence:
Once selected from the Express Entry Pool and awarded with an Invitation to Apply (ITA), candidates and their dependants must also undergo medical examinations and obtain security clearances as part of the Canadian immigration application process.
Need Help?
Contact us for more information about the Federal Skilled Trade Class application process or for assistance in preparing an application.
PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAMS (PNP)
PNP programs are another option to immigrate to Canada if you do not have enough points to be selected under Express Entry or not eligible for any other immigration category
The Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) allow Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to Canada and who are interested in settling in a particular province.
Each Canadian province (except Quebec, which has a different selection system) and two territories have their own unique Provincial Nominee Programs. Participating provinces and territories sign agreements with IRCC that allow them to select immigrants who meet the requirements that they have set forth.
Provinces with PNP programs each have their own selection criteria to find immigrants with skills that the province needs which they cannot hire locally. The selection criteria and occupations vary across provinces from information technology, medical, agriculture, trades, business, investors, and people who have ties to Canada.
How does the program work?
Candidates must first be entered into the Express Entry System with their CRS score (calculate here), then apply to a PNP program (which is a separate application). You will remain in the Express Entry pool for a year, or until you are selected to apply for Permanent Residence.
After the province processes your PNP application (typically 3-4 months), you will be granted 600 points to add to your Express Entry score. With these additional 600 points, you will be selected and invited to apply for PR at the very next draw, which occurs every 2 weeks.
Benefits of applying under PNP program
Once a Provincial Nominee Certificate is granted, you receive 600 points that goes towards your Express Entry score. On average, individuals without a PNP certificate will score between 300 and 500. The most recent cutoff scores to be selected for Express Entry have been in the 400 - 500 range. Individuals with a PNP Certificate automatically are granted 600 points to add to their Express Entry score of 300-500 points. The PNP certificate would give a final Express Entry score above 900 which is significantly higher than the current cutoff selection score of around 400-500 points.
Available PNP Programs
Manitoba PNP
If you have a close relative living in the Manitoba province, you may be eligible to apply to this PNP program for having a "connection to Manitoba". We will need to assess you to determine if you are a strong candidate, as this PNP has their own scoring and selection system similar to Express Entry. Currently, you would need a score above 530 to be a strong candidate.
New Brunswick PNP
If you have a close relative living in New Brunswick province, you may be eligible to apply for this PNP.
If you have a; brother or sister, aunt or uncle, nephew or niece, first cousin, mother or father, grandmother or grandfather living in one of these provinces, you may be eligible to apply for a PNP.
Occupation based PNP
Each province in Canada is looking for candidates with skilled job experience to fill labour shortages in their province. The list of occupations vary from province to province, depending on their needs. If you are granted a PNP nomination, you most likely will be able to find a job since you are granted a PNP for a job category where there is a shortage of your skill set.
If you have job experience in one of the categories below and you are interested in applying for Permanent Residence in Canada, please contact us for assistance. It is not a straightforward process and we can help you get PR under these PNP programs.
Administrative Assistants
Administrative assistants
Aerospace
Aircraft instrument, electrical and avionics mechanics, technicians and inspectors
Advertising and Marketing
Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
Agriculture
Landscape and horticulture technicians and specialists
Managers in agriculture
Engineers
Civil Engineers
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Drafting Technologists and Technicians
Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Finance and Accounting
Accounting and related clerks
Financial Auditors and Accountants
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Sales Representatives
Other Financial Officers
Mathematicians, statisticians and actuaries
Information Technology
Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers
Computer Network Technician
Information Systems Analysts and Consultants
Health information management occupations
User Support Technicians
Law
Paralegal and related occupations
Medicine and Health
Biological technologists and technicians
Health information management occupations
Licensed Practical Nurses
Registered Nurses
Teacher
College and other vocational instructor
Trades
Appliance servicers and repairers
Automotive service technicians, truck and bus mechanics and mechanical repairers
Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
Gas fitters
Miscellaneous
Facility operation and maintenance managers
Geoscientists and Oceanographers
Managers in social, community and correctional services
Social and community service workers
Property administrators
Recreation, sports and fitness program and service directors
Technical occupations in geomatics and meteorology
Need Help?
Contact us for more information about the Provincial Nominee Program application process or for assistance in preparing an application.
What is a Canada Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?
The Canada Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a system that allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals for permanent residency based on their specific economic and labor market needs. Each province and territory in Canada has its PNP with criteria tailored to its unique requirements and priorities.
The PNP helps provinces and territories address skill shortages and labor market demands by attracting individuals with the skills and experience needed in their regions.
The program allows provinces and territories to focus on immigration policies that align with their own economic strategies and development goals. The PNP can also help promote more balanced population growth across Canada, encouraging newcomers to settle in regions outside major urban centers.
List of Canadian PNPs with Eligibility Criteria
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
The AAIP is known for its pathways for both skilled workers and entrepreneurs; especially a recent focus on attracting tech talent.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
This program is seen as a gateway to the Canadian city of Vancouver. Highly regarded for its tech sector and international graduate streams, this is a great provincial nominee program for tech workers and entrepreneurs.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
This provincial nominee program is popular for its focus on fostering community in the province and its programs related to agriculture.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
This Canadian Provincial Nominee Program is known for its efforts to attract newcomers to support the local economy and fill labor shortages.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
Focused on filling labor gaps and attracting business investment to support local industries.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
Job offer from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer, or business investment plan.
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
Known for its diverse streams and emphasis on helping immigrants integrate into the community.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
One of the most popular PNPs due to Ontario's large economy and diverse job market.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
Known for its welcoming approach and emphasis on community involvement.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
Offers pathways for both high-skilled workers and those with entrepreneurial aspirations; popular for its balanced approach to immigration
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)
Known for its focus on attracting skilled workers to support economic development in the territories.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)
Popular for its focus on regional economic development and its support for small businesses.
Eligibility:
Key Requirements:
Best Canadian Provincial Program in 2024
Each province has a unique set of requirements and benefits. Depending on various factors specific to your situation, including your skills, work experience, education, and long-term goals, the "best" Provincial Nominee Program might change.
Here is a list of the different Provincial Nominee Programs that are noted for less rigorous applicant requirements, fast processing times, and pathways to permanent residency.
Provincial Nominee Programs with "Easier" Requirements
Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
Stream: International Skilled Worker: Occupation In-Demand.
Why It's Considered Easy:
The Occupation In-Demand stream does not require a job offer. It targets skilled workers with experience in high-demand occupations in Saskatchewan, making it accessible for those who meet the criteria.
Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
Stream: Labour Impact Category.
Why It's Considered Easy:
This category does not always require a job offer, depending on the specific stream and applicant profile. It's designed for individuals who have experience in in-demand occupations.
Provincial Nominee Programs with Fastest Processing Times
Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
Stream: Alberta Express Entry Stream.
Why It's Considered Easy:
This stream is aligned with the federal Express Entry system. If you are already in the Express Entry pool and meet the criteria, it can be relatively straightforward to receive a nomination from Alberta, especially if you have experience or skills in demand
Provincial Nominee Programs with Fastest Path to Permanent Residency
If you're looking for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) with a fast pathway to permanent residency, you'll want to focus on programs that are closely linked with the federal Express Entry system.
These programs often provide the quickest routes due to their integration with Express Entry, which streamlines both provincial and federal processing. Here are some of the PNPs known for relatively fast pathways to permanent residency:
1. British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
Stream: Express Entry BC.
Processing Time:
The BC PNP Express Entry stream is known for its efficient processing times. Once you receive a provincial nomination, the federal Express Entry system can process your application for permanent residency in about 6 months.
Features:
This stream is aligned with the Express Entry system, which helps speed up the overall processing time. It targets skilled workers, international graduates, and individuals with job offers in BC.
2. Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
Stream: Ontario Express Entry Stream
Processing Time:
OINP has a relatively quick processing time for its Express Entry-linked streams. After receiving a provincial nomination, the Express Entry system typically processes the permanent residency application within about 6 months.
3. Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
Stream: Alberta Express Entry Stream.
Processing Time:
Similar to BC and Ontario, the AINP's Express Entry stream benefits from the streamlined processing of the Express Entry system. The time from provincial nomination to permanent residency is typically around 6 months.
4. Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
Stream: International Skilled Worker: Express Entry.
Processing Time:
The SINP's Express Entry stream also benefits from the federal Express Entry system's efficiency. Processing times from provincial nomination to permanent residency are generally around 6 months.
Important to note:
This stream targets skilled workers who are already in the Express Entry pool and have work experience in high-demand occupations in Saskatchewan.
5. Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
Stream: Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry
Processing Time:
This stream is designed for skilled workers with a connection to Nova Scotia. The processing times for Nova Scotia's Express Entry-linked nominations are typically fast, within 6 months, benefiting from the federal system's efficiency.
Provincial Nominee Programs with Low Draw Scores
As of 2024, here are some PNPs and streams known for having relatively lower draw scores or more accessible entry requirements:
1. Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
Stream: International Skilled Worker: Occupation In-Demand
Typical Draw Scores:
SINP's Occupation In-Demand stream is often noted for having lower score thresholds compared to some other provinces. Draw scores for this stream can vary, but it is generally accessible for those with relevant work experience in high-demand occupations.
2. Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
Stream: Skilled Worker Overseas Stream
Typical Draw Scores:
The MPNP's Skilled Worker Overseas Stream often has lower score requirements, particularly if you have a connection to Manitoba or work in an occupation in demand. Manitoba uses a points-based system that evaluates factors such as work experience, education, and language proficiency.
3. Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
Stream: Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry
Typical Draw Scores:
The Nova Scotia Demand stream targets skilled workers with specific experience. While Nova Scotia does issue invites through Express Entry, the criteria for some categories may have lower thresholds compared to other provinces.
4. Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)
Stream: Alberta Express Entry Stream
Typical Draw Scores:
Alberta's Express Entry Stream has historically had lower score requirements compared to other PNPs. Alberta often selects candidates with lower Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores, especially those who have experience in in-demand occupations or are working in Alberta.
5. Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
Stream: Labour Impact Category
Typical Draw Scores: For candidates with work experience in PEI or those who have established ties to the province, lower scores are required than within the Labour Impact Category as well as other Provincial Nominee Programs.
Canada PNP vs Express Entry – What is the difference?
The Canada Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and the Express Entry system are two distinct pathways for immigrating to Canada, each with its processes and purposes.
The Express Entry system is a federal system that manages applications for permanent residency under three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
The PNP program is more locally focused. Designed to address specific labor market needs and economic priorities of individual provinces and territories.
While Express Entry candidates are assessed based on a points-based system, the PNP programs are focused on the specific needs of each province to determine candidate eligibility. Canadian provinces and territories can nominate candidates based on local needs, and these nominees apply for permanent residency through the federal government.
For PNP programs, the time it takes to get a provincial nomination can vary, depending on the province and the specific stream. The overall processing time for Express Entry candidates is generally faster, with a standard processing time of around six months from the date of submission of a complete application.
FAQs about Canada PNPs
1. Which PNP stream is the easiest?
Determining the "easiest" Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to apply for can depend on several factors, including your qualifications, occupation, and personal circumstances.
2. Can I apply for Express entry when on PNP?
Yes, you can apply for Express Entry while being involved in a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Many PNPs are designed to work in conjunction with Express Entry, and receiving a provincial nomination can significantly boost your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency through Express Entry. A provincial nomination adds significant value to your Express Entry profile, often leading to a faster pathway to permanent residency.
3. Can I apply for a PNP with an active work permit?
Yes, you can apply for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) while holding an active work permit. Many provinces and territories in Canada have streams within their PNPs that specifically target individuals already working in Canada on a temporary work permit.
Eligibility for PNP Streams:
Work Experience Requirement:
Many PNP streams require candidates to have work experience in the province or territory. If you're on a work permit and working in a province, you may be eligible for streams that are designed for temporary workers.
Stream-Specific Criteria:
Each province has its criteria and streams. For example, some streams require you to work in a specific occupation or have a certain amount of work experience.
Types of PNP Streams for Work Permit Holders:
Employer-Driven Streams:
Some provinces have employer-driven streams where you need a job offer from an employer in the province to be eligible. If you're already working for an employer in the province, this can be an advantage.
Skilled Worker Streams:
Many provinces have streams for skilled workers, where having Canadian work experience can strengthen your application.
International Graduate Streams:
If you have recently graduated from a Canadian educational institution and are on a work permit, you may be eligible for streams that target recent graduates.
Application Process:
Apply to the Province:
Submit an application to the province or territory under the relevant stream. Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and provide all required documentation.
Receive a Provincial Nomination:
If the province or territory approves your application, you will receive a provincial nomination certificate.
Apply for Permanent Residency:
Use the provincial nomination to apply for permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You may do this either through the Express Entry system (if you are in the Express Entry pool) or directly through a paper-based process.
Maintain Status:
Ensure that your work permit remains valid throughout the application process. If your work permit expires, it may affect your ability to continue working and maintain your status.
Stream-Specific Requirements:
Carefully review the specific requirements for the PNP stream you are applying for, as requirements can vary significantly between provinces and streams.
4. Can my spouse work if I am on PNP?
Yes, but it depends on the specifics. Once you become a permanent resident, your spouse can work freely in Canada without needing a separate work permit.
Your spouse can work if you are on a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), but their ability to work will depend on several factors, including the status of your PNP application, the type of PNP you are involved in, and the work permit status of your spouse.
If you are on a work permit and have received a provincial nomination, your spouse may be eligible to apply for an open work permit. An open work permit allows your spouse to work for any employer in Canada and is typically available to spouses of skilled workers with valid work permits.
If you are in the process of applying for permanent residency through the PNP, your spouse's work authorization will depend on their current status.
If your spouse is already in Canada and you are on a work permit, they can apply for an open work permit based on your work permit status and the PNP nomination.
If your spouse is outside Canada, they may apply for a work permit if they have a valid job offer in Canada, or if they qualify for an open work permit as your dependent.
