Getting Canada PR can be tough, especially if your CRS score is low in Express Entry. But there’s good news—Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) offer a way in! These programs let Canadian provinces select skilled workers who meet their labor market needs.
For many Indians, PNPs are the best route since some programs don’t require a job offer and accept candidates with lower CRS scores. In this blog, we’ll break down the easiest PNPs to apply for in Canada, their eligibility, and how you can boost your chances of getting nominated for Canadian PR.
What is PNP in Canada?
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a Canada immigration pathway where provinces select skilled workers based on their labor market needs. If a province nominates you, it significantly boosts your chances of getting Canada PR.
Each province has its own eligibility criteria, focusing on occupations in demand. Some PNPs require a job offer, while others don’t.
Compared to Express Entry, a PNP application for Canada is a better option if your CRS score is low. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, making PR (permanent residency) approval almost guaranteed!
Factors That Make a PNP Easy to Get
Not all PNPs apply for Canada the same way—some are much easier to qualify for. Choosing the right PNP can make your Canada PR journey smoother. Here’s what makes a PNP simpler to get:
- No Job Offer Requirement—Some provinces nominate candidates even without employer sponsorship.
- Low CRS Score Requirement—Certain PNPs accept applicants with lower CRS scores, making PR more accessible.
- Occupation in Demand—If your job is in high demand, your chances of nomination increase.
- Frequent Draws—More draws mean more opportunities for selection.
- Simple Application Process—Some PNPs have faster, more straightforward paperwork
Top 5 Easiest PNPs in Canada to Get as Indians
If you’re looking for the easiest PNP to apply for in Canada, these five programs offer great opportunities with low CRS requirements, no job offer needs, and high nomination numbers.
#1. OINP— Human Capital Priorities Stream
In 2024, OINP (Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program) issued 21,500 nominations, 2.3X more than in 2022. This stream is ideal for Express Entry candidates with skilled work experience. The best part? No job offer required—you only need the right education and work history to qualify. Ontario regularly selects candidates with in-demand skills, making it one of the easiest PNPs to secure.
#2. SINP—Express Entry & Occupations In-Demand
SINP (Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program) invited 5,375 skilled immigrants in 2023, focusing on high-demand occupations. You don’t need a job offer, and the CRS score requirements are often lower than Express Entry draws. Saskatchewan regularly holds frequent draws, improving your chances of getting selected. If your occupation is on Saskatchewan’s in-demand list, this PNP can be an easy route to Canada PR.
#3. AAIP—Express Entry Stream
AAIP (Alberta Advantage Immigration Program) issued 9,942 nominations in 2024, with 85% going to foreign workers. This program is great for candidates with low CRS scores (as low as 300). If you have ties to Alberta, like previous work, study, or a relative, you have a higher chance of nomination. No job offer is needed, making Alberta one of the easiest provinces for PNP selection.
#4. MPNP—Skilled Worker Stream
MPNP (Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program) nominated 6,275 candidates in 2024, an 11% increase since 2020. It favors applicants with a connection to Manitoba, such as family, friends, or prior education/work experience in the province. A job offer isn’t mandatory, but candidates with local support get preference. Manitoba holds frequent draws, offering more chances for PR hopefuls.
#5. NSNP—Labour Market Priorities
NSNP (Nova Scotia Nominee Program) welcomes 7,000+ PR applicants yearly, with a 70% retention rate. This PNP selects Express Entry candidates directly, prioritizing professions in healthcare, IT, and skilled trades. Since the province actively seeks workers, it’s a great option for those without a job offer. If your skills match Nova Scotia’s labor market needs, this program can be an easy pathway to PR.
Each of these PNPs applies for Canada PR with unique requirements, but all provide a faster and easier path to permanent residency!
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a PNP
If you’re planning to PNP apply for Canada, here’s how you can do it:
- Check Eligibility—Find the right PNP based on your skills, experience, and province requirements. Some programs need a job offer, while others don’t.
- Create an Express Entry Profile—If applying through an Express Entry-linked PNP, ensure your profile is active.
- Apply for Provincial Nomination—Submit the required documents to your chosen province.
- Get Your Nomination Certificate—This gives you 600 extra CRS points, securing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
- Apply for PR—Submit your final application to IRCC for permanent residency in Canada!
FAQs on PNP for Canada PR
Here are a a few more questions to understand more about PNP and the process of Canada. Here they are:
Which PNP requires the lowest CRS score?
The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) is known for inviting candidates with CRS scores as low as 300. Some Saskatchewan and Manitoba PNPs also have lower cut-offs, depending on demand.
Can I apply for multiple PNPs at the same time?
Yes, you can apply to multiple PNPs, but you must meet each program’s eligibility. However, once a province nominates you, you must commit to living and working there.
How long does the PNP process take?
The timeline varies by province. Generally, PNP nomination takes 3-6 months, and after that, applying for Canada PR through IRCC takes another 6-12 months.
Which PNPs don’t require a job offer?
Many PNPs, like Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities, Saskatchewan’s Express Entry, and Nova Scotia’s Labour Market Priorities, don’t require a job offer but focus on work experience and skills.
Can I settle in another province after getting a PNP?
Legally, PR holders can move within Canada. However, since you committed to a province for nomination, you should initially settle there to avoid complications with future immigration processes.
Final Thoughts & Next Step
Choosing the easiest PNP depends on your profile. If you have a strong Express Entry profile but a low CRS score, Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities Stream is your best choice. For those with in-demand skills but no job offer, Saskatchewan and Nova Scotia PNPs are great options. If you’re open to a lower CRS requirement, Alberta’s PNP is worth considering.
PNP rules change frequently, so always check the latest updates before applying. Need expert help? New Land Visas can guide you through the process and boost your chances of getting nominated for Canada PR. Contact us today!