Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

The provincial nominee program (PNP) is an opportunity for people interested in immigrating to a specific province or territory of Canada. Every province and territory in Canada operates its own PNP tailored to meet its specific demographic and economic needs.

An applicant must be nominated by a province or territory to be eligible for the Provincial Nominee Program. Canadian provinces have an agreement with the federal government enabling them to nominate immigrants for immigration to their provinces based on criteria set by the provincial government. PNP Canada programs allow Canadian provinces to nominate individuals for immigration to their provinces based on criteria set by the provincial government. Successful applicants receive a provincial nomination, which may then be used to apply for permanent residence with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

How to apply to through the Paper-Based Process

If you wish to apply to a PNP that is not aligned with Express Entry, you must use the paper-based process. Your paper application for Canadian permanent residence can be submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada once you have been nominated by a Canadian province or territory.

In addition, you must also pass a police check and a medical exam.