Canadian Provincial Nomination Programs: A Brief Overview
Many have heard of Canada’s immigration system, and indeed Canada is famous for the large number of different programs it has available to help boost its declining population. However, many people are not aware that each of the ten provinces in Canada (being Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, New Brunswick, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Prince Edward Island and Alberta), have their own parallel immigration programs.
These are referred to as “Provincial Nomination Programs” (PNPs) and successful applicants to these programs, can go on to receive permanent residence in Canada. This article provides a brief overview of how they work.
General Features
Most provinces operate a parallel skilled worker program to the Canadian Federal (i.e. central government)“Express Entry” immigration system, which targets skilled workers. However, the main difference from the Federal Program, for most provinces (barring a few exceptions, which will be noted below), is that their programs are not open for all. In most cases, a province will have to invite an applicant to apply for the PNP, after they register an interest in the province via their Federal Express Entry application.
For a whole host of other programs, a job offer in the province is required, and some also require presence in the province. Some provinces, such as Manitoba, also have programs which allow an applicant to apply if they demonstrate some familial, professional, or business link to the province (including time spent studying). Therefore, these programs are not as open to international applicants as the Federal program.
There are also business and entrepreneur streams in almost every province. Some provinces, such as New Brunswick and PEI, also offer international student graduates from the province, the opportunity to apply for self employment visas. However, most business immigration programs require an investment, usually between CAD $100k-$600k, with an individual net worth of CAD $100,000-$800,000 (depending on if the investment is made in a rural or central location). There is also a long application procedure, which involves the preparation of a business plan, along with visits and negotiations between the investor and the province, in most cases. This process usually results in the issuance of a work permit, which can then be converted to permanent residency after approximately 2 years.
Provinces with more Options
The two provinces which offer more application opportunities for international candidates are Quebec and Saskatchewan.
Quebec is unique, in that it is Canada’s “French” province, where French language is spoken and used prevalently. They maintain their own immigration system and process, and therefore, have their own immigration application for permanent residence. However, the points required, and criteria, can be quite difficult for applicants. French language skills are also a significant part of the selection requirements. Qualified international applicants are still given the opportunity to apply, if they meet the selection criteria.
Quebec also maintains its own business and investor visa programs. There is even a self employment category, which requires a much lower investment than elsewhere, of between CAD $25k-$50k. However, only about 50 applications are accepted per year in this category.
Saskatchewan runs its own Express Entry type selection process, for applicants who meet their eligibility requirements. In addition, applicants who have a “skill in demand” (as defined by the provincial government), can apply if their occupation matches those in demand in the province. This provides international applicants, who meet the provinces’ requirements, a chance to apply for permanent residency under the provincial scheme.
Sidenote: Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program
We are often contacted about the AIPP, and how to apply. Therefore, it would be fitting to include a basic description of how the AIPP works. The AIPP allows designated employers in the Atlantic Provinces (PEI, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and New Brunswick), to sponsor individuals who receive job offers from them, for permanent residency. There is no labor market survey requirement, or job impact assessment, under this program (i.e. an assessment from the government which determines if the job will have a detrimental impact on the economy). Therefore, international applicants who receive a job offer, and who thereafter meet the program criteria, are eligible to apply. However, the key aspect of this program is the job offer part! Before applying, you will need a job offer from a designated employer.
Our Services
If anyone is planning to go to Canada, it is important to create an overall immigration strategy (even for a visit, as many visitors are highly scrutinized by immigration authorities prior to receiving the visa, due to high immigration numbers in Canada). We have years of experience in offering and implementing successful and tangible immigration strategies for individuals and families, and can offer a long term solution for your plans. It is also best to go with tried, tested and experienced advisors, when making a long term commitment to relocating. Our assistance extends to post settlement advice, and we stay in touch with our clients once they have relocated as well.
To get in touch with us, drop us an email at info@borderlesscounsel.com