Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in Canada
By Radmila Lim, RCIC #R414423 – Lawseph & Associates Inc.
What is the Provincial Nominee Program?
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a Canadian immigration pathway that allows provinces and territories to nominate foreign nationals for permanent residency. Each province has its own PNP streams tailored to local labour market needs, economic development priorities, and demographic goals. This program is ideal for applicants who want to settle in a specific province and contribute to its economic growth.
What the PNP Is Not
- It is not a temporary work permit. PNP is designed for permanent residency.
- It is not a federal-only process. Provinces have authority to nominate, but final PR approval is by IRCC.
- It is not the same as Express Entry, though many PNP streams align with Express Entry for faster processing.
PNP vs. Other Immigration Programs
PNP vs. Express Entry: Express Entry is points-based and highly competitive. PNP, by contrast, allows provinces to select candidates who meet local labour shortages, often giving Express Entry candidates an additional 600 CRS points if nominated.
PNP vs. LMIA-based Work Permits: An LMIA supports temporary work permits but does not guarantee permanent residency. PNP, however, is a direct pathway to permanent residency.
PNP vs. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): AIP is limited to four Atlantic provinces, while PNP covers nearly all provinces and territories across Canada, each with unique categories.
Concrete Example
Rajesh, a 34-year-old IT professional from India, wanted to live in Saskatchewan where there was a strong demand for his skills. Through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), he applied with the assistance of Lawseph & Associates Inc. We guided him in preparing his documents, verifying eligibility, and submitting a complete application. Within 9 months, he received a provincial nomination, applied for PR, and was approved. Rajesh and his family landed in Canada, ready to start their new life in Saskatoon.
Eligibility & Admissibility Requirements
- A valid job offer or work experience in an in-demand occupation (varies by province).
- Language proficiency in English or French (CLB 4–7 depending on stream).
- Educational credentials (secondary or post-secondary, depending on program).
- Proof of settlement funds (unless already working in Canada).
- No criminal or inadmissibility issues under Canadian law.
Associated Costs
- PNP Application Fee (varies by province): CAD $250 – $1,500.
- IRCC Government PR Fee: CAD $1,365 (principal applicant).
- Medical Exam: ~CAD $200–300 per person.
- Police Certificates: ~CAD $50–100 each.
Lawseph & Associates RCIC Legal Fees
- Initial Consultation: CAD $200 (credited toward full service if retained).
- PNP Application Preparation: CAD $3,500.
- PR Application Submission (post-nomination): CAD $2,500.
- Additional Family Members: CAD $500 each.
Total legal service packages available. Contact us for a personalized quote.
Processing Times
Processing times depend on province and federal stage. Average timelines:
- PNP Nomination: 6–12 months.
- Federal PR Stage after Nomination: 6–12 months.
Total time: 12–24 months from application to permanent residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply directly to a PNP without Express Entry?
Yes, many provinces accept direct PNP applications outside of Express Entry.
2. Can my family come with me?
Yes, spouses and dependent children can be included in your application.
3. Do all provinces have the same requirements?
No, each province sets its own eligibility criteria based on labour market needs.
How to Get Started
At Lawseph & Associates Inc., we assess your profile, recommend the best PNP stream, and manage your application from start to finish. By hiring an RCIC consultant, you reduce risks of refusal and delays. Our legal expertise ensures your application is accurate, complete, and persuasive.
