Provincial Nominee Program Categories

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are a key part of Canada’s immigration policy, with more than 300,000 people expected to obtain Canadian permanent residence through a Provincial Nominee Program between 2021 and 2024.

Provincial Nominee Programs are the fastest-growing economic Canadian immigration pathway. Over recent years, the federal government has gradually increased provinces’ annual allocations for their respective PNPs, showing the increasing importance of these programs within the overall Canadian immigration landscape.

Categories of Provincial Nominee Programs

With more than 70 unique PNP streams across the provinces, we can fit them into three broad categories: first-come first-served, Expression of Interest, and passive.

First-come, first-served

This means that once the stream opens, applications are accepted in the order they are submitted until a quota is met. For some streams, the quota fills up extremely quickly.

Examples of high-demand streams include:

·        Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Category B

·        Ontario Masters Graduate stream

Other first-come first-served streams accept applications on a continuous basis, rather than during short application intake periods. If you are eligible, you can submit at any time. Examples include:

·        Saskatchewan International Skilled Worker: Employment Offer

·        Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker

Expression of Interest

This is the go-to method for provinces that incorporate points systems into their Provincial Nominee Program streams. In some ways, this category mirrors the federal Express Entry system, with potential applicants first having to put forward their candidacy by submitting an Expression of Interest form.

It should be noted that these points systems are often separate from the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) used to rank Express Entry candidates. A person might be competitive in Express Entry but might not be competitive according to the points system used to rank a specific PNP stream.

Examples include:

·        British Columbia Express Entry Skilled Worker

·        Manitoba Skilled Worker Overseas

Minimum scores required to receive an invitation through these, and other EOI-based streams fluctuate from draw to draw. There is no certain way to know what score may be required in the future, and so the best advice is to be in the relevant pool so that you may be considered for selection based on your credentials.

Passive

Some PNP streams are considered passive because applicants, who are Express Entry candidates in most cases, cannot actively apply or declare their interest in being considered for a nomination through these streams. Rather, potential applicants may be contacted by the province in question and invited to apply.

Applicants who are invited will receive communication from the province sent directly to their IRCC online account.

Examples include:

·        All three of Ontario’s Express Entry-linked streams: Human Capital Priorities, French-Speaking Skilled Worker, and Skilled Trades.

·        Alberta Express Entry

·        Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities

Processing Times for Provincial Nominee Programs

Processing times for Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs largely depend on whether the application has been submitted under an Express Entry-linked PNP stream, or one of the other streams not linked with Express Entry.

Applicants should expect a processing period for the initial application to the province, plus an additional processing period for the final application to the federal government for permanent residence.

Most provinces have brought their processing times down to a few months, or even weeks. For Express Entry-linked applications, the federal processing time remains for most applications is six months. Non-Express Entry linked applications, also called paper-based applications, usually take between 1-2 years to process at the federal stage.

Am I eligible for a Provincial Nominee Program?

Under Provincial Nominee Programs, provinces and territories in Canada can nominate individuals and families who wish to settle in their province or territory based on criteria set by the province.

Each province and territory determine their own eligibility criteria for Provincial Nominee Programs. For example, one province might prioritize bringing in provincial nominees with experience in a certain occupation, while another province might prioritize bringing in provincial nominees with French-language experience. It depends on the needs of each specific province and territory.

To become a provincial nominee, applicants must show that they meet the set criteria. This will show that the applicant has the skills, education, and work experience to be able to make a positive contribution to the local economy and society. The province or territory will consider the application based on the needs of the specific province, as well as the applicant’s genuine intention to settle there.

Within each PNP, there are multiple sub-programs and categories, usually known as “streams”. 

How do I apply for a Provincial Nominee Program?

In Canada, all final immigration decisions are made by the federal government, not the provincial government. For this reason, PNPs are a two-part process. First, you must apply to the province for your provincial nomination. Then, if you are approved by the province, you must submit a second application to the federal government for your Canadian permanent resident status.

1.     Find out your eligibility: 

2.     FineSkilzCanada Uses a PNP Live Tracker to track available PNPs and determine your eligibility for the many options available at any given time.

3.     Complete a Provincial Nominee Program application: FineSkilzCanada Submits your application to the province or territory.

4.     Receive your Provincial Nomination certificate: If you are eligible, you will receive an official Provincial Nomination certificate, allowing you to continue to the next step.

5.     Submit your permanent residence application: FineSkilzCanada will apply to the federal government for Canadian permanent resident status. If you were nominated through an Express Entry-aligned PNP, you can apply through Express Entry. Otherwise, you must submit a paper-based application.

Some PNP streams operate on a first-come, first-served basis, while other PNP streams require potential applicants to first register an Expression of Interest. Further, some PNP streams operate outside the federal Express Entry immigration system – these are known as “base” streams – while other PNP streams are aligned with Express Entry.

Provincial Nominee Programs and Express Entry

Most provinces and territories have streams that relate to the federal Express Entry selection system, through which “enhanced” nominations are available that award nominees 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points.

A provincial nomination is the single most valuable factor in the CRS, effectively guaranteeing that the candidate receives an Invitation to Apply (ITA) at a subsequent draw from the pool.

The CRS is a score out of 1,200 assigned to Express Entry candidates, which decides who should get an ITA for permanent residency. In almost every round of Express Entry draws, these 600 bonus points would guarantee that the applicant would receive an ITA.

Individuals who wish to apply for a provincial nomination under an enhanced PNP stream must first create an Express Entry profile and enter the pool.

 

What Provincial Nominee Programs are available in Canada?

Find out about the Provincial Nominee Programs offered by each participating province and territory below. Note that Quebec does not have a Provincial Nominee Program, though it does operate its own Skilled Worker Program.

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

Ontario has one of the most varied and dynamic of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs. Skilled workers, graduates, and businesspeople can plan their immigration to Ontario.

·        More aout about the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program

·            Ontario immigration

·        To many people, Ontario is the crown jewel in the Canadian landscape. This gigantic province, located in east-central Canada, is home the country’s largest city, Toronto, the national capital, Ottawa, and a host of other cities, towns, and communities that have welcomed newcomers from around the world for many decades.

·        But how to get there? Apart from the federal programs, such as the programs managed under the Express Entry immigration system, Ontario immigration authorities also offer unique pathways to Canada.

·        In some cases, applicants to the OINP may be in the federal Express Entry pool. Indeed, the OINP currently includes three Express Entry-aligned streams. In these cases, an OINP provincial nomination leads to the applicant receiving 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, with an invitation to apply (ITA) to follow soon after when Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts a draw from the pool.

·        The Express Entry Human Capital Priorities Stream has proven to be particularly popular since being introduced in 2015. There is also a French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream, for Express Entry candidates with ability in English and French, and a Skilled Trades Stream, for Express Entry candidates with experience working in a trade in Ontario.

·        In other cases, applicants can arrive in Ontario via the OINP having never gone through the Express Entry system. International students and graduates’ benefit from streams aimed at targeting newcomers with various levels of educational attainment.

·        Finally, there are streams that focus on welcoming individuals and companies with business experience.

·            The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program: An Overview

·        The following table shows the range of immigration streams and categories operated by the Ontario immigration authorities. Click on any item in the left column to learn more about that stream or category.

Ontario Express Entry
Stream/Category	Job offer required?	Basic criteria
Human Capital Priorities	No	Be in the Express Entry pool as a FSW or CEC candidate and meet a minimum CRS score requirement determined by the director [of the OINP]
French-Speaking Skilled Worker	No	Be in the Express Entry pool as a FSW or CEC candidate with adequate-intermediate (CLB 7) or better French and developing-intermediate (CLB 6) or better English ability
Skilled Trades	No	Be in the Express Entry pool as a CEC candidate and currently residing in Ontario, with work experience in a listed skilled trade occupation
Graduate Streams
Stream/Category	Job offer required?	Basic criteria
Masters Graduates	No	Graduated from a Master's program in Ontario within the last two years
PhD Graduates	No	Graduated from a PhD program in Ontario within the last two years
Employer Job Offer
Stream/Category	Job offer required?	Basic criteria
International Student	Yes	Graduated from a degree program at a Canadian college or university that is at least two years in length, or a diploma program at a college or university that is at least a one-year post-graduate certificate program
Foreign Worker	Yes	Have a permanent job offer in a skilled occupation that meets the prevailing wage levels in Ontario for that occupation and region.
In-Demand Skills	Yes	Recently worked in Ontario in a high-demand construction or agriculture occupation
Business Streams
Stream/Category	Job offer required?	Basic criteria
Entrepreneur	No (but must create jobs)	Business owner/managerial experience, high net worth (min. $800,000), personal investment funds (min. $500,000), create two or more jobs
Corporate	n/a	Terminated in 2019

Three steps to a successful OINP application

If you want to ensure that your OINP application is as successful and stress-free as possible then you need to make sure that you pay attention to the following helpful steps:

1.     Make sure you qualify: This may sound like an obvious point to make but the reality is that many OINP applicants fail to ensure that they meet the minimum eligibility qualifying criteria. So, to avoid this stress contact one of our associates at FineSkilzCanada and make sure you meet all the mandatory requirements for the OINP stream you have applied for.

2.     Apply to be nominated by the Ontario government: Once we have chosen your stream, we apply. The application cost for the employer job offer and human capital streams is either $1,500 or $2,000, and for the business streams is $3,500 per business partner or key staff applicant. Application processing times vary.

3.     Apply for permanent residence: If your application is successful and you are nominated by the Ontario government, FineSkilzCanada will immediately apply for permanent residence through IRCC. The Government of Canada makes the final decision on who becomes a permanent resident.

4.         Get help with your Canadian immigration application

5.     Do you need assistance in preparing an application for Canadian permanent residence? If so contact us at FineSkilzCanada and one of our associates will get in touch with you

 

British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)

British Columbia offers wide-ranging streams and categories for workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs in its Provincial Nominee Program. It includes categories aligned with Canada’s federal Express Entry immigration selection system.

·        Find out about the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program

·        The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC-PNP) is an immigration program through which a broad range of workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs can settle in British Columbia permanently.

·        The BC-PNP is one of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). It is one of the most varied of all the PNPs, with two broad streams for workers and graduates — Express Entry BC and Skills Immigration — plus an additional stream for entrepreneurs.

·        These streams are further divided into various categories. Some BC-PNP categories are aligned with Canada’s federal Express Entry immigration selection system. Successful applicants under one of these categories obtain 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points and an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence at a subsequent draw from the pool.

·        Furthermore, some BC-PNP categories are managed under a unique system, known as the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). Under the SIRS, potential applicants are first required to register a profile and provide some personal information relating to their job offer in BC, work experience, language ability, and level of education. The SIRS works on an Expression of Interest / Invitation to Apply basis, whereby registered candidates are assigned a score (out of 200), and the BC government conducts periodic draws in which candidates who meet the cut-off threshold for their category in that draw are invited to apply for a provincial nomination.

·        Though some BC-PNP categories require applicants to have a job offer from a BC employer, certain categories managed outside the SIRS do not require applicants to have a job offer.

·        The BC-PNP also offers a Tech Pilot program, introduced in 2017, whereby tech and IT workers may immigrate to BC and obtain Canadian permanent residence.

·            BC-PNP overview

Express Entry BC
Category	Job offer required?	Aligned with SIRS?	Basic criteria
Skilled worker	Yes	Yes	Job offer in a skilled position
International Graduate	Yes	Yes	Job offer in a skilled position; studied at post-secondary level in Canada
International Post-Graduate	No	No	Graduated Master’s/PhD  program in BC in natural, applied or health sciences
Health care professional	Yes	No	Job offer in a listed health occupation
Skills Immigration
Category	Job offer required?	Aligned with SIRS?	Basic criteria
Skilled worker	Yes	Yes	Job offer in a skilled position
International Graduate	Yes	Yes	Job offer in a skilled position; studied at post- secondary level in Canada
International Post-Graduate	No	No	Graduated Master’s/PhD program in BC in natural, applied or health sciences
Health care professional	Yes	No	Job offer in a listed health  occupation
Entry Level and Semi-Skilled	Yes	Yes	Job offer in tourism/hospitality, trucking, or food processing industry
Entrepreneur Immigration
Category	Job offer required?	Aligned with SIRS?	Basic criteria
Entrepreneur Immigration	No, but must create at least one job	No	High net worth; business proposal

 

Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP)

Alberta is one of Canada’s most popular destinations for new immigrants, offering PNP streams for Express Entry candidates and non-Express Entry candidates. Its Provincial Nominee Program welcomes workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs to the province.

·        Find out about the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program

·        The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP) is an immigration program through which a broad range of workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs can settle in Alberta permanently. The AINP is one of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

·        Successful applicants to the AINP receive a provincial nomination certificate. With this nomination, the applicant, as well as his or her accompanying family members, if applicable, may apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for Canadian permanent residence.

·        Alberta has been a hugely attractive destination for newcomers to Canada over recent years, with the government data from Canada’s most recent census in 2016 showing that Alberta rivals British Columbia for position as the second most popular immigration destination in Canada, after Ontario. Alberta’s share of recent immigrants — defined as people who first obtained permanent resident status in Canada in the five years prior to a census — increased from 6.9 per cent in 2001 to 17.1 per cent in 2016.

·        Immigrants to Alberta are attracted by the wealth of job opportunities across the province and high living standards. The provincial capital, Edmonton, as well as the slightly larger Calgary and a host of smaller communities across the province, have experienced economic growth over recent years.

AINP Streams

The Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program offers three streams — the Opportunity Stream, the Express Entry Stream, and the Self-Employed Farmer stream.

The Opportunity stream provides a pathway to Canadian permanent residence for foreign workers working in Alberta, who will require a job offer from an employer in Alberta in order to be eligible.

The Express Entry stream provides a pathway for Express Entry candidates who Alberta invites to apply to the province. Candidates are invited through their Express Entry accounts with the exact selection criteria not available to the public.

Express Entry candidates who receive a provincial nomination through an Express Entry-aligned stream receive 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points and an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence at a subsequent draw from the pool.

The AINP also offers the Self-Employed Farmer stream for experienced farmers with the demonstrated capacity to operate a farm in Alberta.

Four top tips when applying for AINP

Like any application, it pays to be as prepared as possible when it comes time to submit your AINP application. With that in mind, here are four top tips that you should focus on:

1.     Read all the relevant AINP terms and conditions. The availability of AINP streams and categories is dependent upon application volumes and labour market needs. The criteria for the AINP are routinely evaluated and may be subject to change at any time and without notice so make sure that you are as prepared as possible.

2.     Review the AINP selection criteria: Each stream has its own distinct selection criteria. Be sure that you’re familiar with the requirements for your stream: AINP Opportunity, AINP Express Entry, or AINP Farmer.

3.     Review the language test requirements: It is necessary for you to demonstrate proficiency in either English or French by taking one of the approved language tests for Canadian immigration.

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program has been undergoing changes over the last several years. Check here to ensure that you have the latest information about the MPNP.

·        Find out about the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program

·        The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is one of the most popular of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs, or PNPs. Through the MPNP, Manitoba nominates newcomers for permanent resident status in the prairie province.

·            Manitoba immigration

·        Since first being launched in 1998, more than 130,000 immigrants to Canada arrived through the MPNP. Manitoba is committed to increasing that number in the years ahead.

·        The MPNP has been undergoing a slow transition over the past several years, called the MPNP Renewal, although the transition has experienced significant delays and has yet to be complete.

·        Many of the new pathways to provincial nomination will be structured within the currently existing International Skilled Worker stream, which will continue to operate in its current guise until more changes come into effect. The current MPNP criteria for this stream, which is divided into the Skilled Workers Overseas and Skilled Workers in Manitoba categories, remains in effect for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) and the receipt of applications by the province.

·        There are to be four streams under the revamped Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program, which includes a range of what the province is now calling ‘pathways.

Skilled Workers in Manitoba Stream

Manitoba immigration authorities are still inviting candidates to apply to the Skilled Workers in Manitoba Stream, linked directly above, but below are a couple of new pathways.

·        Manitoba Work Experience Pathway

The Manitoba Work Experience Pathway of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program targets skilled temporary workers and graduates in Manitoba who wish to settle in Manitoba as permanent residents.

·        Employer Direct Recruitment Pathway

The Employer Direct Recruitment Pathway targets skilled workers overseas whose expertise is required in Manitoba.

International Education Stream

Manitoba’s new International Education Stream provides faster pathways to nomination international students graduating in Manitoba.

·        Career Employment Pathway

International graduates of universities and colleges in Manitoba can look to the Career Employment Pathway as their potential route to permanent residence.

·        Graduate Internship Pathway

The Manitoba Graduate Internship Pathway provides nomination pathways for international graduates of a Master’s or Doctoral (PhD) study program who then complete an internship contributing to industry innovation in Manitoba.

·        Student Entrepreneur Pathway

The Manitoba International Student Entrepreneur Pilot provides international students who have graduated in Manitoba the opportunity to pursue entrepreneurship in Manitoba.

Business Investor Stream

The previous business immigration stream of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program, known as MPNP-B, has been replaced by the new Business Investor Stream, which is itself subdivided into the Entrepreneur Pathway and the Farm Investor Pathway.

·        Entrepreneur Pathway

The Manitoba Business Investor stream is for investors and entrepreneurs who wish to purchase or start a business in Manitoba. Successful applicants to the Entrepreneur Pathway will receive a temporary work permit and sign a business performance agreement to purchase an existing business in the province or start a new business.

·        Farm Investor Pathway

The Manitoba Farm Investor Pathway provides a route to Canadian permanent residence for investors and entrepreneurs who wish to purchase or start a farming business in Manitoba.

Manitoba immigration draws

Many Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program streams operate on an Expression of Interest (EOI) basis, whereby potential applicants must first submit a form outlining their interest before potentially being invited to apply for immigration to Manitoba.

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program: In-demand occupations

The MPNP In-Demand Occupations List is an important component of many of the pathways listed above. The list provides a regularly updated listing of which occupations qualify as ‘in-demand’ in Manitoba. Many occupations on the in-demand list are limited to specific skilled streams of the MPNP, and candidates must meet the specific criteria and requirements for one of the specific pathways. Candidates working in an in-demand occupation will be prioritized during Expression of Interest draws. In certain cases, it is possible for individuals to be eligible for one of the pathways, even if they do not have experience in one of the listed occupations.

The language requirements for candidates depend on their occupation, with varying Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) thresholds set.

* Regulated Occupation
** Compulsory Trade

Rural In-Demand Occupations

In addition to the occupations listed above, the following occupations are considered in-demand for applicants with the MPNP streams listed as long as the employment is based outside of the Manitoba Capital Region.

NOC	Occupation Title	Skill Level	Minimum CLB	Eligible MPNP Stream(s)
3413	Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates	C	7	International Education Stream

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program

This province in the Canadian Prairies is looking to welcome Express Entry candidates, as well as workers in in-demand occupations.

·        Find out about the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program

·        Immigration to Saskatchewan, Canada is delivered in part through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), one of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

·        Saskatchewan immigration authorities have developed SINP categories for a broad range of potential applicants. For people thinking of immigrating to Saskatchewan — particularly those who may not succeed in immigrating to Canada through a federal program, such as those managed under the Express Entry system — the SINP may be the perfect Canadian immigration option.

·        Through a variety of categories and sub-categories, the SINP targets specific individuals and their families who have the potential to live and work successfully in Saskatchewan. If you are a skilled worker abroad, an international graduate or temporary foreign worker in Saskatchewan, or an entrepreneur with big plans for your future business in Saskatchewan, the SINP could be your route to Canadian permanent resident status.

·            Why think about Saskatchewan?

·        While the latest census data from 2016 reveals immigration to Saskatchewan has been relatively low compared to national figures, with four percent of newcomers to Canada choosing to settle in Saskatchewan, this figure is growing. The previous census, in 2011, showed only one percent settled in Saskatchewan.

·        Saskatchewan maintains a diverse and active immigration program to respond to and encourage this growth, as categories evolve or are created to respond to labour market needs.

·        With a growing economy, vibrant city life, a strong educational system, and plenty of open space, Saskatchewan could provide a prosperous new home for you and your family. Saskatchewan’s economic growth is among the highest of all Canadian provinces, as the agricultural and mining industries rebound. Employers are frequently looking for skilled and enthusiastic workers in these sectors, as well as others including education, healthcare, engineering, and more.

The SINP: an overview

As one of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), the SINP offers a variety of categories and sub-categories for potential immigration candidates. Most of these operate outside the federal Express Entry system, meaning a candidate can submit an application for nomination for permanent residence from the province without creating an Express Entry profile, entering the pool, and awaiting an invitation to apply (ITA) in a draw.

However, there is also one Express Entry-aligned option, the Saskatchewan International Skilled Worker: Express Entry sub-category, which could lead to that all-important provincial nomination and an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, leading to an ITA in a future Express Entry draw.

An ‘Expression of Interest’ system

During the first years of the SINP, candidates in the International Skilled Worker streams would have to submit applications during intake periods which were announced with little notice and often lasted briefly. However, in 2019, SINP opted to shift to an Expression of Interest (EOI) system.

Instead of trying to submit an application online during unannounced and brief intake periods, as was formerly required, anyone who is eligible became eligible to submit an Expression of Interest and enter a pool of candidates to stand a chance of receiving an invitation to submit a full application. This also ensures that only eligible candidates may submit an application and allows potential applicants to improve their profile and standing in the pool while they await an invitation.

·        Contact FineSkilzCanada to Learn more about the new SINP Expression of Interest system

SINP categories

The eligibility criteria across the SINP’s categories and sub-categories are many and varied, meaning a wide variety of workers, international graduates, and businesspeople may find a route that fits them.

Saskatchewan has identified several areas of labour shortage in the province, and looks to talented newcomers from around the world, as well as temporary foreign workers in Saskatchewan, to fill these gaps. If you work in any of the occupations listed on the province’s In-Demand Occupation List, or if you are currently working in Saskatchewan, there may be a sub-category for you.

Find out more about:

·        The International Skilled Worker category: Saskatchewan Express Entry and Saskatchewan Occupations In-Demand.

·        The Saskatchewan Experience category.

Saskatchewan immigration authorities also welcome foreign investment to nurture business opportunities in Saskatchewan. If you have a business idea, or wish to purchase and expand an existing Saskatchewan business, the Saskatchewan Entrepreneur Program could be the start of an exciting new investment.

Recent graduates from Saskatchewan colleges and universities who are interested in managing their own business might be interested in the Saskatchewan International Graduate Entrepreneur category.

A further business option can be found in the Saskatchewan Farm Owner and Operator category, which works closely with farmers abroad who wish to settle in the province and establish a farm.

 

Nova Scotia Nominee Program

With many Express Entry-aligned streams and room to welcome graduates and entrepreneurs, Nova Scotia is an increasingly popular destination for newcomers.

Nova Scotia Nominee Program

·        The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) offers several immigration streams targeting a diverse range of potential newcomers to Canada. From international graduates and temporary foreign workers in Nova Scotia, to skilled workers and entrepreneurs outside Canada, many people find their route to Canadian permanent resident status through a Nova Scotia immigration stream.

·        Through a range of NSNP streams, some of which are aligned with the federal Express Entry system, Nova Scotia targets applicants who have the experience and human capital factors the province needs to build its economy and communities.

·            The NSNP and Express Entry

·        The NSNP maintains an active interaction with the federal Express Entry pool, and candidates may have a range of options if they are interested in moving to Nova Scotia.

·        The Labour Market Priorities Stream is a dynamic and flexible stream that allows the province to select eligible candidates from the Express Entry pool based on the latest labour market needs, and invite them to apply for provincial nomination. Each invitation round selects candidates in the Express Entry pool with work experience in a particular occupation or occupations. Candidates selected through this stream may count on fruitful career opportunities in the province, as their occupation has been targeted because there is a shortage of that experience and skill set locally.

·        The Express Entry-aligned Demand and Experience streams allow eligible candidates in the federal Express Entry pool to choose Nova Scotia as their new home in Canada. Individuals in the Express Entry pool who have experience working in Nova Scotia may find success through the Experience stream. Meanwhile, the Demand stream operates through two sub-categories: candidates with a job offer may apply at any time through Category A, while Category B opens periodically to receive applications from individuals in targeted occupations. Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Category B applicants do not require a job offer.

Express Entry candidates who receive a provincial nomination through an Express Entry-aligned stream receive 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points and an invitation to apply (ITA) for permanent residence at a subsequent draw from the pool.

·            Other Nova Scotia immigration options

Operating outside the federal Express Entry system, the NSNP Skilled Worker stream provides a route to permanent resident status for international graduates and foreign workers with a job offer from a Nova Scotia employer. Elsewhere, the Physician and Labour Market Priorities for Physicians streams welcomes individuals in specific medical professions to apply for permanent resident status via both a non-Express Entry and an Express Entry stream that work with local health authorities to fill vacant positions.

·        Entrepreneurs are highly valued by the province, and the NSNP offers routes to permanent residence for both international graduates in Nova Scotia and experienced businesspeople worldwide through the establishment or purchase of a business in Nova Scotia.

·        Finally, hopeful newcomers with experience working as nursing aides (NOC 3413) and Caregivers NOC 4412)  with a job offer from a Nova Scotia employer may be able to immigrate through the Occupations In Demand stream.

·            Why Nova Scotia?

Nestled on Canada’s eastern coast, Nova Scotia offers vibrant city and small-town life alongside breathtaking scenery. With a growing economy and one of the lowest costs of living in Canada, many newcomers to Canada may find this small coastal province offers an enticing lifestyle away from the intensity and of major cities further west.

While Nova Scotia immigration levels are still relatively low compared to other destinations across the country, its potential should not be discounted. As the province actively looks to immigration as a way to boost its economy and fill labour shortages, you could find an exciting new career opportunity in Nova Scotia.

 

New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program

The NBPNP includes a popular Express Entry-linked stream, as well as opportunities for workers with a job offers and immigrant entrepreneurs.

New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program

New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program streams

See below for currently available NBPNP streams.

·        Express Entry Labour Market Stream: For Express Entry candidates. Criteria for this stream has changed previously and may do so again. Successful applicants obtain 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points and an invitation to apply (ITA) at a subsequent draw from the Express Entry pool.

·        Skilled Worker with Employer Support: For applicants with an eligible job offer in New Brunswick.

·        Entrepreneurial stream: For international entrepreneurs who want to establish and manage a business in New Brunswick.

·        Post-Graduate Entrepreneurial stream: For graduates of New Brunswick institutions who go on to start a business in the province.

Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)

The PEI PNP welcomes applications from Express Entry candidates, skilled workers, graduates, and business investors.

Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program

·        If you want to immigrate to Canada and would consider moving to the province of Prince Edward Island (PEI, Canada’s smallest province by area), then the PEI Provincial Nominee Program, commonly known as the PEI PNP, could be the perfect Canadian immigration option for you.

·        Nominated persons can settle in PEI with accompanying family members, if applicable.

·            Who is PEI looking for?

·        The PEI PNP is one of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs, or PNPs, through which provinces may nominate individuals for Canadian permanent residence based on criteria set by the province.

·        The PEI PNP offers immigration streams for candidates in the government of Canada’s Express Entry pool, as well as skilled workers (currently working in PEI or outside Canada), graduates of local higher education institutions, and for business immigrants who want to operate a business in PEI.

PEI Express Entry

·        The PEI Express Entry stream is a key part of the PEI PNP, notably because nearly any candidate in the Express Entry pool can submit an Expression of Interest. As with all Express Entry-linked PNPs, successful applicants obtain 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, resulting in an invitation to apply (ITA) at a subsequent Express Entry draw.

Skilled Worker Outside Canada stream

·        For eligible skilled workers outside Canada with a job offer from a PEI employer.

Skilled Worker in PEI stream

·        For eligible skilled workers currently working in PEI.

    International Graduate stream

·        For international graduates of an eligible institution in PEI, who have a local job offer.

Critical Worker stream

·        For workers with experience in an in-demand occupation.

Business Work Permit stream

·        For international business applicants who want to invest in and operate a business in PEI.

Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)

The NLPNP includes Canadian immigration pathways for Express Entry candidates, graduates, workers, and businesspeople.

Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program

·        The Newfoundland and Labrador PNP, or NLPNP, is one of Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs, or PNPs. Through the NLPNP, the province of Newfoundland and Labrador can nominate new immigrants to Canada based on local needs.

·        If you’re looking for the perfect place to build a career or raise a family, Newfoundland might be the perfect Canadian immigration option.

·        Express Entry candidates are among those who may benefit from provincial nomination under the Newfoundland and Labrador PNP.

Newfoundland and Labrador PNP streams

See below for currently available NLPNP streams.

·        Newfoundland Express Entry Skilled Worker: For Express Entry candidates with a job offer in Newfoundland. Successful applicants obtain 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points and an invitation to apply (ITA) at a subsequent draw from the Express Entry pool.

·        Skilled Worker: For applicants with an eligible job or job offer in Newfoundland.

·        International Graduate: For recent graduates who have a post-graduation work permit and a job or job offer from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer.

·        International Graduate Entrepreneur: For international graduates of Memorial University in Newfoundland or College of the North Atlantic who have already started or bought a local business in Newfoundland and maintained day-to-day operations for at least one continuous year.

·        Entrepreneur: For experienced business owners or senior business managers who want to build a new life, and continue their business career, in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP)

If you have a job offer up north in the Northwest Territories, the NTNP could be your immigration route. Express Entry candidates have a dedicated stream under the NTNP.

·        Explore your options under the Northwest Territories Nominee Program

·        The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) offers a route to Canadian permanent resident status for foreign nationals who wish to make this vast territory their home.

·        Nestled in the very north of Canada, the Northwest Territories is a vast and beautiful wilderness with several thriving small communities. With approximately 41,000 residents in over one million square kilometres, there is constant demand for workers in key sectors such as mining, energy and resources, construction, transport, tourism, and especially healthcare workers.

·        The Northwest Territories is the most populated of Canada’s three territories. The capital, Yellowknife, serves as an important administrative, economic, and cultural hub for the area. Despite its size and remote location, Yellowknife offers an impressive range of schools, medical services, and cultural amenities, and has the infrastructure you would expect of a regular city, including full telecommunications and cellular coverage, an airport, and the only public transit system in all three territories.

The Northwest Territories Nominee Program has a range of streams targeting foreign nationals with specific skills and experience:

·        Entry Level/Semi-Skilled Occupations Stream

·        Skilled Worker Stream

·        Express Entry Skilled Worker Stream

·        Business Stream

Why the Northwest Territories?

It is true that the remote location and environment may not be everyone’s first choice for their new home in Canada. But with such rich opportunities in diverse and exciting industries, this is a territory that deserves consideration.

Realistically, it can be challenging to get a job offer from abroad to work in a more populous province. However, the Northwest Territories is in great need of talented workers from all over the world, and a job offer here could lead to exactly the opportunity you and your family are looking for to work and live in Canada.

Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)

Yukon is looking for Express Entry candidates and healthcare workers, as well as businesspeople, to contribute to life in the territory.

Yukon Nominee Program

 

Which province in Canada is easiest to immigrate to?

ANALYSIS: Each of the provinces participating in the PNP has its own unique streams designed specifically to meet their market labour needs and to target a category of immigrants. 

A common misconception on Canadian immigration is that some provinces are “easier” than others to immigrate to. 

Any province can be the easiest to immigrate to if you meet all the criteria of the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that you are applying for. It might be obvious if you already have a job offer in a province, but not so much for people who have not yet set foot in Canada.  

Finding a PNP that is right for you is a little like finding the right key for a lock. The “right fit” will depend on your situation, as well as the skills and experience you can offer when it comes to the needs of the local labour market. Most regions in Canada, except for Nunavut and Quebec, have their own PNP–specific streams. These immigration pathways are tailored to meet the specific needs of each province and are intended for a category of immigrants, be they skilled, unskilled, entrepreneur or international students. Heath Care workers and Nurse aides are commonly found in High-Demand. FineSkilzCanada specializes in preparing prospective immigrants to pursue their careers

Aside from federal and Quebec streams, there are currently almost 80 unique streams across the provinces and territories participating in the PNP.  

A provincial nomination from an enhanced PNP stream, that is, one related to Canada’s Express Entry system, will award an additional 600 points toward the system’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. If you earn these additional points, it is virtually guaranteed that you will receive an invitation from the Government of Canada to apply for Canadian permanent residence. 

There are numerous options available to you depending on your personal situation: 

 

You do not have a job offer 

·         

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Human Capital Priorities stream is one of the more popular options for those without a job offer. The stream has three Express Entry-linked categories and has been actively issuing invitations to immigration candidates in 2020. While a job offer is not required, you do need to have an active Express Entry profile and work experience to be considered and invited to apply to this stream. Health Care workers and Nurse aides are commonly found in High-Demand   

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is another option for international applicants without a job offer. Saskatchewan’s International Skilled Worker Category has two continually active streams that do not require job offers. The first is the Saskatchewan Express Entry-linked stream, which does, however, require one having an active profile in the federal Express Entry system to apply.  

The second is the Saskatchewan Occupation In-Demand stream, which does not have this requirement. It brings skilled workers who are capable of filling labour needs in Saskatchewan. To qualify an applicant must have at least one year of work experience in one of the positions listed on the In-Demand Occupations List of Saskatchewan.  Health Care workers and Nurse aides are commonly found in High-Demand 

Lastly, the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is one of Canada’s most extensive and innovative provincial nominee programs. The NSNP uses four streams to select Express Entry candidates. The NSNP searches the Express Entry pool and identifies candidates with work experience in specific occupations. While the Labour Market Priorities for Physicians Stream requires a job offer (specifically, as a physician from a Nova Scotia Health Authority), the Nova Scotia Demand; Nova Scotia Experience; and Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities (other than Physicians) do not require applicants to have job offers. Health Care workers and Nurse aides are commonly found in High-Demand 

·        You speak French 

Outside of the French-speaking province of Quebec, there are other PNPs that call for francophone or bilingual applicants. The OINP’s Express Entry-linked French-Speaking Skilled Worker allows the province to search the Express Entry pool for candidates who are French-speaking skilled workers and who also have strong English language skills, among other selection criteria. The stream has been active over the past six months issuing close to 700 notifications of interest.   

·        You are a tech worker 

Two of the most notable PNP pathways for tech workers are those operated by the provinces of Ontario and British Columbia. 

Ontario periodically conducts dedicated “Tech draws” within the Ontario Express Entry-linked Human Capital Priority Stream. These draws target individuals who have work experience in one of six designated technology occupations, such as computer engineers and web designers. No job offer is required. 

B.C.’s Tech Pilot, meanwhile, selects immigration candidates to apply for a provincial nomination, on an almost weekly basis.  This pilot operates within the BC Skills Immigration pathway. A job offer in one of the 29 designated technology occupations is an eligibility requirement for the pilot. 

·        You have experience in the province or territory  

Many PNPs have streams that benefit individuals with experience in the province or territory. The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) Skilled Worker in Manitoba and Skilled Worker Overseas streams both privilege people who have worked in Manitoba as well as have an educational experience. Within its International Education stream, Manitoba also has three distinct sub-streams for individuals who studied or graduated from Manitoba post-secondary institutions. 

PNPs are one of the best ways to obtain PR in Canada 

Express Entry and Canada’s Provincial Nominee Program are set to play increasingly high-profile roles in Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan between now and 2024. 

Combined admissions for Express Entry-managed programs and Canada’s PNP are projected to account for close to half of Canada’s newcomer intake.

Despite Canada’s temporary travel restrictions spurred by coronavirus, most PNPs are still holding invitation rounds. 

Individuals who are seriously considering immigrating to Canada will benefit from examining all possible program and pathway options. Choices abound and exist to suit everyone’s diverse circumstances and unique background. 

If you are a professional Health Care Worker Contact Fine Skills Canada to explore your options