The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is administered by provincial governments in Canada.

While the Express Entry program addresses the nationwide shortage of skilled workers, the Provincial Nominee Program comes into effect when specific provinces face labor shortages. In such cases, the province selects foreign workers meeting predetermined criteria and occupations.

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The PNP empowers Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals aspiring to immigrate to Canada and settle in a particular province, with the exception of Nunavut and Quebec. Quebec, as a province, has the authority to establish its own selection criteria for economic immigration.

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Each PNP includes at least one immigration stream aligned with the federal Express Entry immigration selection system. Nominations issued under these Express Entry-aligned streams are referred to as enhanced nominations. Enhanced nominations offer Express Entry candidates an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, ensuring a higher chance of receiving a permanent residence invitation and expediting the federal application process within approximately six months.

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Alternatively, individuals can obtain permanent residence through a 'base' stream by applying directly to a PNP stream, receiving a provincial nomination, and having the federal government process their permanent residence application.

This program serves as an expedited and efficient pathway for immigration to Canada, particularly for individuals lacking sufficient CRS scores to secure an Invitation to Apply (ITA) under the Express Entry program.

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The program is ideal for workers who possess the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to a specific province or territory's economy, desire to reside in that province, and aim to become permanent residents of Canada.

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Each province and territory feature unique "streams" (immigration programs targeting specific groups) and requirements, such as those for students, businesspeople, skilled workers, and semi-skilled workers.

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The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is a tool used to determine eligibility for various Express Entry programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and Canadian Experience Class.

It assists individuals in assessing their CRS score and making necessary adjustments to improve their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence in Canada. Applicants must ensure their CRS score exceeds the minimum points required for their respective round of invitations.