Provinces in Canada other than Quebec and Nunavut, provide diverse Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) options suited to their immigration requirements, featuring varying criteria and application procedures. Although PNPs are a favored pathway to obtaining Canadian permanent residency, the ultimate decision on this status rests with the federal government, rendering these programs as “nominee” routes. Those who successfully apply for the PNP receive a nomination from the province, initiating the initial phase of a two-step procedure. Once the provincial endorsement is granted, applicants must seek permanent residency in Canada through the federal government. In this article we will explore the implications of provincial nomination and Express Entry category-based draws and choose the right pathway for immigration.
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a well-known economic immigration initiative in Canada. It aims to welcome around 117,500 immigrants annually by 2025. Many PNP programs will accept Express Entry applicants.
An overview of Express Entry category-based draw
Express Entry experienced several notable changes this year. On May 31, IRCC introduced six new categories for Express Entry, which are based on different attributes.
These categories provide an opportunity for applicants who meet the requirements of any of the following six categories to have another chance of being selected for an Express Entry draw and receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA):
- Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) professions
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Strong French language abilities
- Healthcare
- Transport
- Trades, such as carpenters, plumbers, and contractors
An eligible candidate can receive an ITA through a number of draw types within the Express Entry system, such as all-program draws, program-specific draws, or category-based selection draws. In the event that such a candidate is also nominated by a province through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), should they accept that nomination?
Understanding the implications of provincial nomination and how it functions
Except for Quebec and Nunavut, each Canadian province and territory operates its own Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Through these initiatives, the federal government can select individuals for economic immigration to the provinces, allowing them to choose those who will best integrate into the local workforce and economy. This collaborative approach reflects the shared responsibilities of the provincial and federal governments in the realm of immigration.
Once a candidate is nominated by a province and accepts the nomination. They proceed to directly submit an application for that nomination to the respective province. The approval of this nomination significantly enhances their application for permanent resident status with IRCC.
There are two ways to enter PNP: “enhanced nomination” or “base nomination.” A PNP candidate who chooses the enhanced nomination route will earn an additional 600 points on the CRS, almost guaranteeing selection for Express Entry.
Moreover, some PNP streams align with Express Entry draws based on categories. British Columbia, for example, regularly nominates candidates in healthcare and technology occupations. There are also streams available in other provinces aimed at candidates with high-demand occupations or work experience. By aligning these strategic goals, the PNP system is able to better address the needs of local labor markets.
Choosing between PNP nomination and category-based selection draw Eligibility: Factors to consider
A PNP nomination continues to offer significant advantages even if you are currently within the Express Entry pool with an occupation aligned with the new categories. A nomination through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) offers 600 CRS points. There has been no indication that IRCC will discontinue program-specific or all-program draws for categories like the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, the Canadian Experience Class, or Express Entry candidates in the PNP. The majority of candidates have been extended invitations during all-program draws since the category-based selection was introduced.
Because a candidate’s CRS score is the main factor in an all-program draw, it is crucial to aim for the highest CRS score possible. In the context of category-based selection within the Express Entry system, this basic idea is still applicable. Despite the fact that CRS scores in these category-based draws could differ slightly from those in all-program draws. It is still desirable to meet or above the minimum CRS score requirements.
Factors in deciding whether to decline a provincial nomination
It may be best for candidates with extremely high CRS scores to consider accepting a provincial nomination carefully. Even for individuals who receive an upgraded nomination, this discussion is especially relevant due to the unique process involved in the PNP.
For acceptance of your application for permanent residence, you only need to submit one application and pay one fee to IRCC if you obtain an ITA through the Express Entry system that isn’t associated with a PNP. Most applicants often have to wait six months or less for their applications to be processed.
However, if your nomination is strengthened, you must first submit an application to the province that nominated you. Also, you have complete any required payments, and follow their processing guidelines. When your application is accepted, you should send it to the IRCC, together with the required fee, again subject to the usual six-month processing period.
Accepting an enhanced nomination may cause your immigration process to take longer while you wait for a nomination decision. It may also result in greater charges because you’ll need to file two separate applications. The cost will depend on the province making the nomination. Some provinces might not charge an application fee, but most do.
Conclusion
Nominations from provinces are accepted or rejected at the candidate’s discretion. Furthermore, a PNP nomination may increase your chances of receiving a Request for Application (RFA) in an Express Entry draw. It includes category-based draws, in addition to raising your CRS score. A direct ITA from IRCC is wiser for applicants who have good CRS scores. And they are concerned about cost or time. It is important to take into account your individual immigration goals, time frame, and budgetary constraints.
