Maple News reports that Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) continued to operate throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, despite travel restrictions and disruptions to immigration services. These programs, managed by each province and territory, play a vital role in supporting regional labor markets by nominating skilled foreign workers for permanent residency.
Throughout 2020 and into 2021, provinces adjusted their nomination criteria and processing measures to maintain immigration flow while adapting to pandemic realities. The federal government bolstered these efforts by prioritizing PNP applicants in some Express Entry draws and reaffirmed its commitment by targeting over 80,000 newcomers annually through PNPs as part of its 2021–2023 Immigration Levels Plan.
In British Columbia, weekly PNP draws continued, but occupations in sectors severely impacted by the pandemic—such as hospitality, tourism, and personal services—were temporarily excluded. These exclusions reflect the province’s real-time labor market assessments and may be lifted once economic demand returns.
Alberta introduced restrictions on processing Labour Market Impact Assessments, limiting them to 27 occupations. Still, candidates could apply to the Alberta Immigrant Nominee Program (AINP), including Post-Graduation Work Permit holders and Alberta Express Entry candidates, regardless of their job sector.
Saskatchewan allowed six-month extensions for nominees whose employment situation changed due to COVID-19, offering conditional nominations based on updated eligibility. Similarly, Manitoba began recognizing non-consecutive work experience and accepting incomplete applications with proper documentation to reflect employment disruptions.
Ontario also permitted candidates to submit incomplete applications with a written explanation, giving additional time for document submission. Despite the challenges, the province exceeded its 2020 nomination quota and plans to launch an Expression of Interest system to replace the first-come, first-served approach.
In the Atlantic region, New Brunswick temporarily welcomed applications from laborers and truck drivers via the Atlantic Immigration Pilot. Nova Scotia intensified recruitment of healthcare workers, while PEI prioritized keeping current residents on track for permanent residency. Newfoundland and Labrador introduced a new pathway for skilled workers, especially local graduates.
Up north, the Yukon Nominee Program adjusted its employment requirements, removing the obligation to meet full-time work minimums and eliminating the 90-day job replacement rule. Meanwhile, the Northwest Territories streamlined application processes with a new online submission portal.
These provincial and territorial adaptations reflect Canada’s broader effort to ensure immigration remains a key pillar of its economic recovery and long-term growth. The PNP landscape remains dynamic, and continued flexibility may be key as Canada moves into a post-pandemic era.
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