The provincial nominee program (PNP) is for workers who

• have the skills, education and work experience to contribute to the economy of a specific province or territory
• want to live in that province or territory
• want to become permanent residents of Canada

Each province and territory has its own “streams” (immigration programs that target certain groups) and requirements.

For example, in a program stream, provinces and territories may target

• students
• business people
• skilled workers
• semi-skilled workers

Understand the application options

How you apply depends on which stream you’re applying to. You can apply using one of the following streams. The application process will vary based on the stream you choose.

Express Entry process

Check application processing times

Step 1. Check your eligibility

Make sure you qualify for the PNP of the province or territory where you want to live and for 1 of the 3 programs managed through Express Entry.

Step 2. Get a nomination

• Contact the province or territory and apply for a nomination.
• Create an Express Entry profile and select the provinces and territories you’re interested in. If a province or territory sends a “notification of interest” to your account, contact them and apply for a nomination.

Step 3. If you get a nomination, update your Express Entry profile

Update (or create) your Express Entry profile and show your nomination. We’ll award you 600 additional points that will help you get invited to apply.

Step 4. Apply for permanent residence if you’re invited

Wait to receive an invitation from us to apply for permanent residence and, if you get one, apply online.

Apply through Express Entry

Non-Express Entry process

Check application processing times

Step 1. Check your eligibility

Make sure you qualify for the PNP of the province or territory where you want to live.

Step 2. Get a nomination

Contact the province or territory and apply for a nomination.

Step 3. Apply for permanent residence

If you’re nominated, apply for permanent residence online.

Select a province or territory to learn about their PNP programs: