A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nomination can boost your Express Entry profile by adding 600 CRS points, significantly increasing your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residency. Here’s how to secure a provincial nomination.
Step 1: Understand Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Each Canadian province and territory (except Quebec and Nunavut) has its own PNP streams designed to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates. Some popular PNPs include:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)
- British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP)
- Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)
- Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
PNPs are either:
- Express Entry-aligned (“Enhanced” PNPs) – Linked to Express Entry.
- Non-Express Entry (“Base” PNPs) – Requires a direct application to the province.
Step 2: Check PNP Eligibility Requirements
Each province has different eligibility criteria based on:
- Work experience in an in-demand occupation.
- Education and language proficiency (IELTS/TEF scores).
- Job offer from an employer in the province (if required).
- Connection to the province (such as work experience, studies, or relatives).
Step 3: Apply for a Provincial Nomination
There are two ways to get a nomination:
Option 1: Apply Directly to a Province (Before Entering Express Entry Pool)
- Visit the official PNP website of the province you’re interested in.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) or application directly.
- If nominated, apply for Express Entry and add your nomination.
Best for candidates who meet a province’s unique requirements but have a low CRS score.
Option 2: Express Entry-Linked PNP (Receive a “Notification of Interest”)
- Enter the Express Entry pool and indicate your preferred provinces.
- If a province finds your profile suitable, you’ll receive a “Notification of Interest” (NOI).
- Accept the nomination, and 600 points will be added to your CRS score.
Best for high-scoring Express Entry candidates who want a faster nomination.
Step 4: Accept the Nomination & Update Your Express Entry Profile
Once nominated:
- Log in to your IRCC Express Entry profile.
- Accept the nomination and confirm your interest.
- Your CRS score will increase by 600 points, making you a strong candidate for the next Express Entry draw.
Step 5: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) & Submit PR Application
- After receiving an ITA, submit your permanent residence application within 60 days.
- Provide police certificates, medical exams, proof of funds, and other required documents.
- Wait for IRCC processing (typically 6-8 months).
Need Help With Your PNP Application?
At Canada Express Entry Assist, we guide applicants through the Provincial Nominee Program process to maximize their chances of securing a nomination and PR.
Contact us today for expert assistance!