Permanent residence
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Each Canadian province can nominate people who fit its economy and labour market for permanent residence. For many applicants this is an important route.
An overview
In a Provincial Nominee Program the province "nominates" you, and then IRCC reviews the permanent residence application and decides. Each province has its own streams and rules, for example based on occupation, field or a link to the province.
Some streams are linked to Express Entry, where a provincial nomination raises the CRS score significantly. Quebec runs its own selection system.
Permanent residenceKey points
Each province's rules
Each province has its own streams, in-demand jobs and requirements.
Express Entry-linked streams
A nomination raises the CRS score.
Base streams
Apply to the province directly, then to IRCC.
A link to the province
A job offer, experience or study there can help.
The steps in short
- 1
Choose a province and stream
Based on your job, experience and situation.
- 2
Prepare documents
As that province's guide says.
- 3
Apply to the province
Submit an expression of interest or a direct application.
- 4
Receive a nomination
If the province nominates you.
- 5
Apply to IRCC for permanent residence
With the provincial nomination.
Common documents
- A valid passport
- Education records and credential assessment, where needed
- Work history
- Language test result
- A job offer, if the stream requires one
- Whatever that province asks for
Good to know
- Streams and their openings change in every province.
- A nomination is not permanent residence by itself; IRCC makes the final decision.
- Quebec has its own system and PNP does not cover it.
- A genuine link to the province usually matters.
Frequently asked questions
Does a PNP guarantee residence?
No. A nomination is an important step, but IRCC makes the final decision.
Do I need a job offer for a PNP?
It depends on the province and stream. Some streams require a job offer and some do not.
How is PNP related to Express Entry?
Some provincial streams are linked to Express Entry, and a nomination raises the CRS score significantly.