The Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) of Canada provide a path to Canadian permanent residence for individuals interested in immigrating to a specific province or territory of Canada. Each province and territory of Canada (EXCEPT Quebec) operates its own PNP designed to meet its specific economic and demographic needs. The most notable Provincial Programs in Canada is the Ontario PNP (OINP), British Columbia PNP (BC PNP), Manitoba PNP and Alberta PNP.
How PNP and Express Entry work:
Each province and territory (with the exception of Quebec) has its own “streams” (immigration programs targeting certain groups) and requirements. For example, in the program stream, provinces and territories may be targeted: students, business people, skilled workers, semi-skilled workers.
Applicants must first enter the Express Entry System with their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and then apply to the PNP programs (which is a separate application). You will stay in the Express Entry pool for a year or until you are chosen to apply for a permanent residence.
After the province processes your PNP application (usually within 3-4 months), you will be granted 600 points to add to your Express Entry score. With these additional 600 points, you will be selected and invited to apply for PR at the very next draw, which takes place every 2 weeks.
Following are the provinces currently participating in the PNP