Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program: Picking the Best Pathway

Each year, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) oversee the two main immigration pathways for new permanent residents in Canada: the Express Entry system and the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).

This 2024, these two channels are anticipated to facilitate the arrival of 220,770 new immigrants, comprising a portion of the 485,000 individuals that Canada aims to welcome.

For individuals contemplating immigration to Canada, a common query emerges: should I opt for the Express Entry system or pursue a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)? Each pathway presents unique advantages. Continue reading to delve into how to navigate this decision, discern the differences between Base and enhanced PNPs, and more.

Express Entry Overview

Express Entry is a primary application management system for economic immigrants to Canada.

It administers three immigration programs:

1. The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP);
2. The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP); and
3. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

In 2024, Express Entry is expected to continue as the primary pathway for newcomers to Canada, with the country aiming to welcome 110,700 permanent residents through these programs.

Each program has distinct eligibility criteria, with at least one requirement that individuals must meet before submitting a profile to the Express Entry pool of eligible candidates. Upon meeting the eligibility criteria and submitting their profile under one of the Express Entry programs, individuals become official Express Entry candidates with a profile in the pool.

Upon entering a profile into the Express Entry pool, all candidates are assigned Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. These scores are calculated based on factors like human capital, work experience, and other pertinent characteristics.

Candidates must await an Express Entry draw, which may be program-specific or general. To receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence (PR), they must possess a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score meeting the minimum threshold set for that draw. Once an Express Entry profile is successfully submitted, it remains valid for one year, with candidates having the option to resubmit their profile upon expiry.

Upon receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), candidates transition into applicants and must submit a permanent residence (PR) application to IRCC within 60 days. Upon approval, newcomers are granted permanent residence (PR) status, enabling them to settle and reside in Canada. For further details on Express Entry, please visit our dedicated webpage.

Apart from the Federal Express Entry pool, Canadian provinces and territories can also issue invitations to candidates through special Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams, referred to as enhanced streams.

To qualify under an enhanced stream, individuals must receive invitations from either the Federal Express Entry pool or the provincial/territorial pool of eligible candidates. Subsequently, they submit an enhanced PNP application to the respective province or territory. Candidates who receive a provincial nomination are granted an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, substantially enhancing their prospects of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the Federal Government.

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) are pathways that operate independently of Express Entry and are overseen by provincial or territorial governments. These streams necessitate separate applications and feature their own unique eligibility criteria (further details will be provided later).

What are Provincial Nominee Programs?

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) are pathways that operate independently of Express Entry and are overseen by provincial or territorial governments. These streams necessitate separate applications and feature their own unique eligibility criteria (further details will be provided later).

Originally created to meet regional demographic and labor market demands, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) empower provincial and territorial governments to nominate qualified newcomers to establish permanent residency within their respective regions.

Every province and territory in Canada (excluding Quebec, which has its own distinct immigration programs, and Nunavut) manages its own PNPs. Eligibility criteria may differ depending on the particular program, but typically encompass factors like residency, education, or employment within the province or territory, occupation in demand, or possession of human capital attributes considered advantageous to the local economy.

PNP serves as Canada's second-largest avenue for newcomers this year, aiming to distribute the advantages of immigration nationwide. While PNPs may not equal the scale of Express Entry in 2024 in terms of newcomer intake, forecasts indicate that in 2025 and 2026, they will surpass all other immigration pathways, emerging as the primary route for newcomers to Canada.

How Pelican Migration Consultants Can Help You Migrate to Canada Using Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program

Navigating the complex pathways of Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) can be daunting. Pelican Migration Consultants offers expert assistance to individuals aiming to migrate to Canada, ensuring a smooth and successful transition. Here are five ways Pelican Migration Consultants can assist you:

1. Expert Guidance: Our experienced consultants provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, ensuring you understand the intricacies of both Express Entry and PNP pathways.
2. Application Preparation: We assist in the meticulous preparation of your application, ensuring all necessary documents are accurately completed and submitted, maximizing your chances of success.
3. Strategy Development: We work closely with you to develop a strategic approach that optimizes your profile for Express Entry or PNP nomination, enhancing your competitiveness in the selection process.
4. Comprehensive Support: From initial consultation to post-application support, our team offers comprehensive assistance at every stage of the migration process, addressing any queries or concerns you may have along the way.
5. Continuous Updates: We keep you informed of any updates or changes in immigration policies and procedures, ensuring you remain up-to-date throughout your migration journey.

With Pelican Migration Consultants by your side, migrating to Canada through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program becomes a seamless and stress-free experience. Contact us today to embark on your journey to a new life in Canada.