Permanent residence
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
Each province and territory, except Quebec and Nunavut, runs its own nominee program to pick people its economy needs. There are two routes. In the Express Entry route, a nomination adds a large number of points to your profile. In the direct route, you apply to the province first and then to IRCC for permanent residence.
Who can apply for a provincial nomination?
- Workers, graduates and business people who want to settle in a particular province.
- Express Entry candidates whose score alone is not high enough.
- People with a job offer from an employer in a province.
How does the Provincial Nominee Program work?
- We look at your profile against each province's streams, starting with where you want to live.
- You send an expression of interest or an application to the province, depending on the stream.
- If nominated, you apply to IRCC for permanent residence, through Express Entry or directly.
- IRCC checks medicals, security and the rest, and makes the final decision.
What documents do you need for a PNP?
- What the province asks for, often a job offer, work history, language results and education.
- Proof you intend to live in that province.
- Your nomination certificate, when you apply to IRCC.
IRCC sets the exact list for each application. We give you a checklist for your own file.
Why are PNP applications refused?
- Not meeting the stream's rules on the date the province checks.
- A job offer below the stream's wage or outside its occupations.
- Weak proof that you will live in the province.
- Information that does not match between the provincial and federal applications.
How can Blue Chip help?
- Provincial streams open, close and change often. We keep track so you apply where you fit.
- We prepare both the provincial and the IRCC application so they match.
- We help Ontario employers understand the Employer Job Offer streams.
Common questions
Does Quebec have a PNP?
No. Quebec runs its own selection programs, and Nunavut has no PNP.
Do I have to live in the province that nominates me?
You must truly intend to. Moving away soon after landing can cause problems later.
Does a nomination guarantee PR?
No. IRCC still makes the final decision after medical, security and other checks.
Official pages
Fees, processing times and income figures change often. Check them on the official pages:
This page is general information, not legal advice. Every case is different, and no one can guarantee an outcome. Rules checked against canada.ca in October 2026.
Related services
Book your free, no-obligation consultation today
Speak directly with Ratul Kumar, a licensed immigration consultant (RCIC). Your first consultation is free.