Provincial Nominee Programs

Immigration service

How Provincial Nominee Programs work

Most Canadian provinces and territories run Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) to select people who can contribute to their local economy and communities. We help you understand which streams may be relevant to you.

Each province and territory sets its own streams and criteria, which often relate to occupation, work experience, education or a job offer in that province. Quebec operates its own selection system. If a province nominates you, you then apply to the federal government for permanent residence.

Some streams are linked to Express Entry, which means a nomination can be part of a broader strategy. We help you weigh the options and plan your next steps.

Immigration application form and a Canadian passport on a desk beside a Canadian flag

Who this may be relevant for

  • Skilled workers with a connection to a particular province or territory
  • People with a job offer from an employer in a province
  • International graduates of institutions in a province
  • Candidates who want to understand how a nomination could fit with their Express Entry profile

Important considerations

  • Streams open, pause and change frequently, and some have limited intake.
  • Provinces generally look for candidates who genuinely intend to live and work there.
  • A nomination does not guarantee permanent residence. The federal application is still assessed on its own.
  • Processing steps and timelines differ between provinces.

The process

How it typically works

Every situation is different, but most applications move through these general stages.

Explore streams

Review the programs offered by the provinces and territories that match your background.

Confirm eligibility

Check the criteria, intent-to-reside requirements and any job offer or experience conditions.

Apply to the province

Submit the provincial application or expression of interest as required by the stream.

Apply for permanent residence

If nominated, submit your permanent residence application to the federal government.

Please note: Eligibility depends on each applicant’s circumstances and current immigration requirements. Invoke Immigration cannot guarantee any immigration outcome; decisions are made by the Government of Canada.

Talk through your options with Mohamed Kammouss, RCIC

Book a consultation to review your circumstances and the pathways that may apply to you.

Prefer to write first? Email contact@invokeimmigration.com

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