Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) Each province, apart from Quebec and Nunavut, operates several PNP streams. These streams are designed by the provinces to help meet their unique immigration goals, so the eligibility criteria and application procedures vary. However, PNPs are a popular option because they can be the fastest pathway to Canadian permanent residence. All decisions regarding Canadian permanent residence must be approved at the national level by the federal government, so Canada’s provinces cannot approve permanent resident status on their own. This is why the provincial programs are considered “nominee” programs. A successful applicant to a PNP will be nominated by the province to apply for permanent residence to the federal government. This means that securing a provincial nomination are always step one in a two-part process. First, an interested immigrant is approved at the provincial level and then they must apply to the federal level. Provinces and Territories Each of Canada’s provinces and territories, apart from Nunavut and Quebec, operates its own unique Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) designed to meet its economic and demographic needs. Program requirements and application procedures vary greatly between provinces, so interested applicants should consult each of the provinces to determine their eligibility. How to Apply for a Provincial Nominee Program Canada Step-by-Step guide to applying to a Canadian PNP: How to apply to through the 'Non Express Entry base' PNP process Some PNPs do not require an Express Entry profile to apply. These programs are called ‘non express entry base’ PNPs. While the nomination process is different for each program, the general process is essentially: Once you have been nominated by a Canadian province or territory, you can submit your application for Canadian permanent residence to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada through IRCC’s online Permanent Residence Portal. How to apply through the Express Entry Process As all PNPs are different, the process for applying and receiving a nomination through the Express Entry system varies depending on the program. Some PNPs generally acknowledge applications from qualified candidates, so if you are qualified for the PNP you can submit at whatever point you are prepared. Other PNPs utilize an Expression of Interest (EOI) framework, where qualified candidates present a profile that is positioned on point-based system for the opportunity to get a challenge to apply for nomination. Finally, some PNPs invite foreign nationals to submit applications, either by choosing applicants directly from the Express Entry pool or by having interested people present a proper Expression of Interest.