Exploring Immigration Options to Canada: 5 Top Pathways to Consider
Considering individual profiles, provincial nominee programs often offer the most accessible route to Canadian permanent residency. Which provinces prioritize ease of access for candidates lacking prior Canadian ties? Explore our curated list of the top five provinces for such applicants.
Numerous nominee programs exist, each tailored to specific eligibility criteria. These programs empower provinces to address their distinct immigration demands. Typically, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) aim to address workforce shortages by attracting candidates with expertise in sought-after occupations.
Frequently, we're queried about the most accessible Canadian Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) for international candidates. While numerous PNPs mandate a tie to their province—like a job offer, professional background, or educational qualification—as a prerequisite for nomination, certain programs extend invitations solely based on candidates' capacity to address labor or demographic shortages.
In 2024, the following four provinces are regarded as the most accessible for international applicants to obtain permanent residency (PR) in Canada:
#1 – Saskatchewan’s International Skilled Worker: Occupation In-Demand and Express Entry
Situated in Canada's prairie region, Saskatchewan has emerged as a sought-after destination for immigrants, thanks to its robust economic development and abundance of employment prospects.
Saskatchewan's International Skilled Worker Program, specifically the Occupations In-Demand and Express Entry streams, targets individuals with expertise in the province's high-demand fields. Utilizing an Expression of Interest (EOI) system, these streams carefully select candidates for immigration.
To initiate an Expression of Interest (EOI), candidates should possess a minimum of one year's experience in an occupation not listed on SINP's Excluded Occupations List. Additionally, they must have completed at least one year of post-secondary education and demonstrate proficiency in English or French. Meeting Saskatchewan's minimum eligibility standards, including achieving a minimum of 60 points on the Points Assessment Grid, qualifies candidates to submit an EOI profile. These profiles undergo assessment during SINP's EOI draws, where only candidates with highly competitive scores and expertise in in-demand occupations receive invitations.
Eligible candidates under Express Entry can opt for the Saskatchewan Express Entry stream, which expedites the processing of their permanent residence application. Alternatively, individuals who do not meet the criteria to submit an Express Entry profile can still apply through the Saskatchewan Occupations In-Demand stream.
2. Alberta's Express Entry Stream
In Canada's western province of Alberta, vibrant cities like Calgary and Edmonton beckon newcomers with promising opportunities. Boasting a burgeoning job market and excellent education system, Alberta stands out as an attractive destination for aspiring immigrants.
The Alberta Express Entry stream handpicks candidates from the federal Express Entry pool for provincial nomination. A significant advantage of this stream is its consideration of Express Entry candidates with CRS scores as low as 300, offering a broader spectrum of individuals in the pool a chance to receive a Notification of Interest from the province.
It's essential to recognize that surpassing a CRS score of 300 doesn't assure an invitation from Alberta's Express Entry stream. While the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program divulges the CRS score of the least-ranked candidate in each invitation round, it doesn't disclose the specific targeted criteria. However, certain factors may enhance a candidate's likelihood:
- Having a qualifying relative who is a permanent resident or citizen residing in Alberta.
- Possessing a job offer or work experience in Alberta.
- Holding a completed credential from a Canadian post-secondary institution.
Alberta’s Express Entry stream operates within the federal Express Entry system. Consequently, obtaining a provincial nomination boosts an applicant’s CRS score by 600 points, essentially ensuring they will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency in the subsequent Express Entry draw.
Because of Alberta's low CRS requirement, it is frequently regarded as one of the most accessible provinces to obtain permanent residency in Canada.
Curious about your CRS score? Call Pelican Migration Consultants and find out today.
3. Ontario's Human Capital Priorities Stream
Ontario stands as Canada's premier destination for immigrants, with a significant influx drawn to the vibrant city of Toronto and its burgeoning tech job market. Consequently, the province allocates a substantial quota to facilitate newcomers' immigration through PNP streams.
Despite boasting one of the most substantial quotas among all provinces, Ontario is eager to attract even more newcomers. Ontario's Labour Minister, Monte McNaughton, has recently proposed doubling the number of immigrants permitted under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) from 9,000 to 18,000. This initiative aims to address the province's pressing labor shortage effectively.
For individuals residing outside Canada, Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities stream presents an excellent opportunity. This stream prioritizes skilled workers capable of fulfilling positions requiring specialized expertise within the province.
The Human Capital Priorities stream also functions within the federal Express Entry system. Eligible candidates must possess an active Express Entry profile with a CRS score of 400 points or above. Ontario thoroughly reviews all Express Entry profiles and extends invitations to apply to the PNP to selected profiles, typically based on specific NOC codes and within a designated CRS range.
In 2021, Ontario selected a total of 3,513 candidates through its Human Capital Priorities stream. Approximately half of these nominees received invitations through OINP's specialized tech draw.
Ontario additionally provides a PNP stream tailored for French-Speaking Skilled Workers with profiles in the Express Entry pool. If you possess intermediate to advanced French proficiency, this program could be an excellent fit for you!
With its generous immigration quotas, Ontario conducts regular draws, positioning it as one of the most accessible provinces for qualifying candidates to obtain permanent residency in Canada.
4. Nova Scotia's Labour Market Priorities Stream
Nestled along Canada's east coast, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Nova Scotia boasts a captivating blend of seaside charm, affordable living, and a relaxed lifestyle, rendering it an enticing haven for numerous aspiring newcomers.
Nova Scotia’s Labour Market Priorities stream directly chooses candidates from the Express Entry pool. As this stream frequently extends invitations to profiles without a prior connection to the province, it is recognized as one of the most accessible PNPs for overseas applicants seeking permanent residency.
Nova Scotia does not disclose the specific occupations or criteria it will target in advance of its intake rounds. However, the province consistently extends invitations to candidates regardless of their prior connections to the region. Prospective nominees are required to maintain an active Express Entry profile and express their interest in Nova Scotia to be considered.
Candidates who receive an invitation from Nova Scotia can apply for the opportunity to obtain a provincial nomination. Since the stream operates within the Express Entry system, successful nominees receive an additional 600 points toward their CRS score. These supplementary points essentially assure them of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in a federal Express Entry draw.
5. Prince Edward Island Express Entry
The Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) presents one of the most straightforward routes to Canadian permanent residency via PEI Express Entry. This nomination significantly boosts the likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply from the Federal Government.
To qualify for PEI Express Entry, candidates must:
- Fulfill the criteria of one of the Federal Economic Immigration programs (Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, or Canadian Experience Class).
- Establish a Federal Express Entry Profile and become part of the candidate pool.
- Exhibit nine months of full-time work experience alongside a supporting PEI employer, with at least four months remaining on their work permit if they hold a PGWP permit or a Spousal Open Work Permit.
Note: PEI will give priority to issuing invitations to individuals who are employed and residing in the province with a qualifying PEI employer.
To commence the application process, candidates should carefully review the Workforce Application Guide and establish a profile in the Prince Edward Island Expression of Interest system, which remains valid for six months. Maintaining accurate and current profile information is crucial. It's important to note that an Expression of Interest indicates interest but does not constitute an application. Certain eligibility criteria apply, such as being legally present in Canada.
Creating an Expression of Interest profile incurs no fee. However, upon receiving an invitation to apply, applicants are required to submit a non-refundable fee of $300 CAD along with the Workforce Application Form. Employers must fulfill the PEI Workforce Job Offer Form, while applicants are responsible for completing relevant provincial forms.
Upon nomination, candidates must acknowledge it through their MyCIC account and proceed to submit a permanent residency application along with the necessary documentation and fees. Permanent residency decisions are made by IRCC. It's imperative to promptly inform authorities of any changes in circumstances. Candidates are required to maintain employment with a single employer until obtaining Permanent Residency status and must report any changes without delay.
The PEI Express Entry pathway stands out as a notably accessible option for individuals aiming to immigrate to Canada, especially those with limited work experience and language proficiency. In contrast to programs like Quebec’s Regular Skilled Worker Program (RSWP), which often require candidates to accrue up to two years of work experience and demonstrate high proficiency in both English and French languages to attain higher points, the PEI Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) offers a more accommodating alternative.
Finding the Right PNP for You
Navigating over 80 PNPs can be daunting when seeking the ideal immigration program for your needs. As the easiest province to obtain PR in Canada often varies based on individual profiles, it can be challenging to determine the best starting point. If you're interested in exploring Canada's PNPs or alternative immigration routes, feel free to reach out to us for further assistance!
Discover if you qualify for any PNPs by completing our complimentary assessment form today!
Navigate the Pathways to Permanent Residency with Pelican Migration Consultants!
Pelican Migration Consultants specializes in assisting individuals in navigating the complex landscape of Canadian immigration, particularly through PNPs and Express Entry pathways. Our experienced consultants can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances and aspirations, ensuring a smooth and successful migration process. Whether you're considering relocation to Saskatchewan, Alberta, Ontario, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island, our team is here to support you every step of the way. With a deep understanding of the evolving immigration policies and requirements, our consultants stay abreast of the latest updates to offer you the most relevant and up-to-date advice. Trust Pelican Migration Consultants to turn your Canadian immigration aspirations into reality.
Contact us now to take the first step towards your new life in Canada!
