Maple News reports that Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) remain a cornerstone of the country’s immigration system, playing a crucial role in addressing regional labor market needs. In October 2021, PNP activity was particularly robust, highlighting the importance of these programs in shaping Canada’s economic immigration landscape.
Since their inception in 1998, PNPs have given provinces and territories a greater say in selecting immigrants best suited to local economic demands. With the exception of Quebec and Nunavut, all Canadian provinces and territories operate their own PNP streams, allowing them to nominate foreign workers for permanent residency based on individual regional priorities.
By 2023, PNPs are expected to admit over 80,000 newcomers annually, making them the second-largest immigration pathway after the federal Express Entry system. The federal government manages overall immigration planning and permanent residence criteria, but PNPs ensure a more tailored approach across the country.
Most provinces have streams aligned with the Express Entry system. In October 2021, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held two Express Entry draws specifically for PNP candidates. On October 13, 681 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, followed by 888 more on October 27. These draws continue a trend of PNP-focused selections, with IRCC hosting 21 such draws so far in 2021, surpassing invitation rates from the previous year.
Ontario was particularly active last month, holding seven separate draws through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Notably, on October 6, the province resumed its Human Capital Priorities Stream after a brief pause, inviting 486 candidates to apply for a provincial nomination.
Maple News notes that this consistent and dynamic use of provincial streams reflects Canada’s commitment to a diversified immigration strategy—one that empowers provinces while boosting economic growth through skilled immigration.
As PNP draws continue to outpace previous years, it’s evident that these programs are not just supplementary but central to Canada’s overall immigration plan, offering a vital pathway for skilled workers aiming to build a future in Canada.