Blog

Boost your chances of Canadian PR! See Which Province is Best for Canada PR and have programs perfect for your skills & experience. Explore your options and unlock a new life in Canada!

Dreaming of a fresh start in Canada? Permanent Residency (PR) opens doors to living, working, and enjoying all that this vast and diverse country has to offer.

But with ten provinces and three territories, each with its own unique landscape and immigration landscape, choosing the right path can feel overwhelming. 

Fear not! This guide explores the exciting PR opportunities available across Canada’s provinces, helping you find the perfect fit for your skills, aspirations, and lifestyle.

In our previous article we have already discussed the provinces where it is easier to get permanent residency in Canada. Let’s revise:

Saskatchewan – Provides focused PNP streams for highly sought-after professions, resulting in expedited processing and possibly increased rates of nomination.

British Columbia – With multiple PNP streams and a sizable and diverse economy, British Columbia attracts a wide range of applicants who, based on their qualifications, have a fair chance of being nominated.

Ontario – The most sought-after location for immigrants is Ontario, which is known for its diversified population and strong economy. In contrast to other provinces, there might be more competition, though.

Manitoba & Nova Scotia – Offer PNP streams in Manitoba and Nova Scotia to alleviate workforce shortages; this may increase the likelihood of nomination for qualified candidates.

We have already discussed PR details and provinces for Saskatchewan and British Columbia. 

Here we will read the specifications for becoming a permanent resident in Manitoba, Nova Scotia, and Ontario.

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is one of the key pathways for obtaining PR in Ontario. 

This program allows the province to nominate individuals for permanent residence based on their skills, work experience, and ability to contribute to the local economy.

Key streams under the OINP include:

Express Entry Human Capital Priorities Stream

The Express Entry Human Capital Priorities Stream is an immigration pathway under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) that is closely linked to the federal Express Entry system. 

This stream is designed to attract highly skilled individuals who have the potential to contribute to Ontario’s labor market and economy. Key features of this stream include:

Express Entry Pool – To be considered for nomination through this stream, candidates must already be in the Express Entry pool, which is the federal system used to manage applications for three economic immigration programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, and Canadian Experience Class.

Here’s some brief information about each:

• Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Program – The Federal Skilled Worker Program is designed for individuals with high levels of education, language proficiency, and skilled work experience. 

The program aims to attract immigrants who can contribute to the Canadian economy through their professional skills. 

To be eligible, candidates must meet requirements related to education, work experience, language proficiency in English or French, age, and adaptability factors. 

Points are awarded based on these criteria, and candidates are selected through the Express Entry system.

• Federal Skilled Trades (FST) Program – The Federal Skilled Trades Program is tailored for individuals with experience in specific skilled trades. 

It targets those who have the necessary skills and qualifications to fill shortages in certain trades in the Canadian labor market. 

To qualify, applicants must have at least two years of work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years. 

They must meet job requirements for that trade, and possess a valid job offer for at least one year or a certificate of qualification in that skilled trade issued by a Canadian provincial or territorial authority.

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – The Canadian Experience Class is designed for individuals who have gained skilled work experience in Canada and wish to transition to permanent residency. 

It recognizes the value of individuals who have already adapted to the Canadian work environment and have established themselves in the country.

To be eligible for the CEC, candidates must have at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years before applying. 

The work experience should be in a qualifying occupation and obtained while the individual had temporary resident status (e.g., as a worker or student).

Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) – Individuals in the Express Entry pool are assigned a CRS score based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other criteria. 

The Human Capital Priorities Stream targets candidates with high CRS scores, indicating a strong likelihood of success in the Canadian labor market.

Nomination – Ontario may issue a Notification of Interest (NOI) to candidates in the Express Entry pool who meet the specific criteria set by the province. 

Upon receiving the NOI, candidates can then apply for a provincial nomination, which significantly enhances their CRS score and increases their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in a subsequent Express Entry draw.

Employer Job Offer Category

The Employer Job Offer Category is a set of streams under the OINP that aims to address specific labor market needs in Ontario by facilitating the immigration of individuals with job offers from Ontario employers. This category includes several streams:

Foreign Worker Stream – For individuals with a job offer in a skilled occupation from an Ontario employer.

International Student Stream – For international students who have completed their studies at an eligible institution in Ontario and have a job offer from an Ontario employer.

In-Demand Skills Stream – Targets individuals with specific in-demand skills in Ontario’s labor market, even if they do not have a job offer. This stream allows Ontario to nominate individuals based on their skills and the province’s economic needs.

Applicants under the Employer Job Offer Category must meet specific criteria related to their job offer, work experience, and, in some cases, licensing or certification requirements. 

A valid job offer from an Ontario employer is a key requirement for eligibility.

Business Category

The Business Category under the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) is designed to attract entrepreneurs who wish to establish or invest in a business in Ontario. 

There are two main streams within this category:

Entrepreneur Stream – This stream is for individuals who plan to start a new business or purchase an existing one in Ontario. 

To be eligible, applicants typically need to have a viable business plan, sufficient investment funds, and the intention to actively manage the business.

Corporate Stream – This stream is for established international corporations seeking to expand their operations to Ontario. 

To qualify, corporations must make a significant investment in the province, create jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents, and meet other specified criteria.

Applicants under the Business Category are assessed based on factors such as their business experience, net worth, investment amount, and the economic benefit their business is expected to bring to Ontario.

French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream

The French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream is tailored for individuals with strong French language proficiency and skilled work experience. 

This stream aims to attract French-speaking individuals who can contribute to the province’s economic and cultural diversity. Key points about this stream include:

Language Requirements – While applicants must have strong French language skills, they are also required to have a good command of the English language, ensuring they can effectively integrate into the broader community and workplace.

Eligibility Criteria – Apart from language proficiency, candidates must meet other eligibility criteria, including education, work experience, and the intention to reside in Ontario.

It’s important for applicants to demonstrate their ability to contribute positively to the province’s economy.

Express Entry Alignment – Like some other OINP streams, the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream is often aligned with the federal Express Entry system. 

Candidates in the Express Entry pool may receive a provincial nomination, leading to a significant boost in their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

Both the Business Category and the French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream provide avenues for individuals with specific skills and aspirations to make Ontario their permanent home.

As always, prospective applicants should refer to the most recent guidelines and requirements on the official OINP website for the latest information.

It’s important to keep in mind that the criteria for each stream changes, and the province periodically updates its immigration programs. 

Applicants usually need to demonstrate their intention to settle in Ontario and meet specific eligibility requirements, including factors like education, work experience, language proficiency, and more.

To get the latest and most accurate information, check the official website of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) or consult with a certified immigration consultant or lawyer. 

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is a program designed to facilitate the immigration of skilled workers, business people, and their families to Manitoba, a province in Canada. 

Here are key components of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program:

Skilled Worker Stream

The Skilled Worker Stream is for individuals with skills and work experience that meet the labor market needs of Manitoba.

It is a pivotal component of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), designed to attract individuals possessing valuable skills and work experience that align with the labor market requirements of the province. 

This stream serves as a pathway for qualified individuals to obtain provincial nomination and, subsequently, Canadian permanent residency.

Key Features of the Skilled Worker Stream:

• Eligibility Criteria – Prospective applicants are assessed based on various eligibility factors, including education, work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability. 

The points-based system evaluates candidates on these criteria, assigning scores to determine their suitability for nomination.

• Points Allocation – Points are assigned based on the candidate’s educational background, relevant work experience, language proficiency in English and/or French, and adaptability factors such as previous work or study experience in Manitoba. 

The scoring system is designed to identify candidates who possess the skills and attributes needed to integrate successfully into the Manitoba workforce and community.

• Skilled Workers in Manitoba Pathway – This pathway is tailored for individuals who are already working in Manitoba and have established connections within the local labor market. 

Applicants under this pathway may include temporary foreign workers and international student graduates who have secured employment and wish to continue their career in the province.

• Skilled Workers Overseas Pathway – Geared toward individuals who have a strong connection to Manitoba, the Skilled Workers Overseas Pathway accommodates candidates living outside Canada but who possess specific ties to the province. 

This pathway acknowledges the importance of attracting skilled workers who may not currently be residing in Manitoba but have a demonstrated affinity or connection to the province, such as family ties or previous education in Manitoba.

• Application Process – Interested candidates typically begin the application process by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the MPNP. 

The EOI system allows individuals to showcase their qualifications and intentions to immigrate to Manitoba. Points are assigned based on the information provided. 

High-scoring candidates may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for provincial nomination, leading to the next stages of the immigration process.

International Education Stream

The International Education Stream (IES) is a specialized pathway under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) that caters to the aspirations of international students.

These students must have successfully completed their studies in Manitoba and must be keen on building their careers and contributing to the province’s workforce.

It includes three pathways: Career Employment Pathway, Graduate Internship Pathway, and the International Student Entrepreneur Pilot.

Key Components of the International Education Stream:

• Career Employment Pathway – This pathway is designed for international graduates who have obtained a full-time, permanent job offer from a Manitoba employer. 

To be eligible, graduates must have completed a program of study in Manitoba, such as a post-secondary diploma, degree, or certificate. 

The Career Employment Pathway facilitates the transition of international graduates into the provincial workforce, contributing to the retention of skilled professionals in Manitoba.

• Graduate Internship Pathway – The Graduate Internship Pathway is crafted to provide international graduates with an opportunity to gain practical work experience in their field of study through a research-based or industry-specific internship. 

To be eligible, graduates must have completed a master’s or Ph.D. program in Manitoba and secured a research internship related to their field of study. 

This pathway not only enhances the graduate’s skills but also fosters collaboration between educational institutions and industry partners in Manitoba.

• International Student Entrepreneur Pilot – This innovative pathway targets international students who have demonstrated an entrepreneurial spirit and a commitment to establishing and operating a business in Manitoba. 

Eligible candidates must have completed a qualifying program in Manitoba, and their proposed business must align with the province’s economic priorities. 

The International Student Entrepreneur Pilot encourages the growth of entrepreneurship in Manitoba by providing a platform for international students to contribute to the local economy through business innovation.

• Application Process – Interested candidates typically initiate the application process by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the MPNP under the International Education Stream. 

Points are assigned based on various factors, including educational qualifications, language proficiency, and the specific requirements of the chosen pathway. 

Successful candidates often receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for provincial nomination, marking the next steps toward achieving permanent residency in Manitoba.

Business Investor Stream

The Business Investor Stream is for individuals who wish to invest and actively manage a business in Manitoba.

It includes three pathways: the Entrepreneur Pathway for those establishing a new business, the Farm Investor Pathway for those establishing a farm business, and the Investor Pathway for those looking to invest in an existing business.

The Business Investor Stream is a significant avenue within the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), specifically designed for individuals who aspire to invest capital and actively engage in business management within the province of Manitoba.

Key Pathways within the Business Investor Stream:

• Entrepreneur Pathway – Geared towards individuals aiming to establish a new business in Manitoba, the Entrepreneur Pathway is well-suited for those with an entrepreneurial spirit and a comprehensive business plan. 

Eligibility criteria often include demonstrating the ability to invest a certain amount of equity in the proposed business, meeting a minimum net worth requirement, and outlining a viable business proposal that aligns with Manitoba’s economic priorities.

• Farm Investor Pathway – Tailored for individuals interested in establishing a farm business in Manitoba, the Farm Investor Pathway encourages investment in the agricultural sector. 

Eligible candidates typically need to demonstrate experience in farm ownership or management, present a feasible farm business plan, and meet financial criteria related to farm investment and personal net worth.

• Investor Pathway – Designed for individuals looking to make an investment in an existing business in Manitoba, the Investor Pathway provides an opportunity for individuals to contribute capital to an established enterprise. 

Eligibility requirements include making a significant equity investment in the business, demonstrating the financial capacity to support the investment, and showcasing the positive economic impact the investment will have on the province.

• Application Process – Individuals interested in the Business Investor Stream usually begin the process by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the MPNP, expressing their intention to participate in the stream. 

Eligible candidates are typically invited to submit a comprehensive business plan and provide evidence of their ability to meet the financial requirements outlined for their chosen pathway. 

Successful candidates who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) may proceed with submitting a formal application for provincial nomination.

• Post-Nomination Responsibilities – Once nominated through the Business Investor Stream, individuals are expected to actively manage and operate their business in Manitoba. 

Nominees are encouraged to contribute to the economic growth of the province by fulfilling their commitment to business investment, job creation, and participation in the local community.

Family Support Stream

The Family Support Stream, an integral component of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), offers a unique immigration pathway for individuals who have close relatives residing in Manitoba and are willing to support their application for permanent residency. 

This stream recognizes the importance of family ties and aims to reunite family members in the province. This stream is for individuals with close relatives in Manitoba who are willing to support their application.

Key Components of the Family Support Stream:

• Eligible Relatives – The Family Support Stream allows individuals to be nominated for permanent residency in Manitoba if they have close relatives who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents residing in the province. 

Eligible relatives may include parents, siblings, children, and other family members, fostering family reunification within the Manitoba community.

• Supporting Application – To be eligible, individuals must have a close relative in Manitoba who is willing to provide support for their settlement in the province.

This support may include assistance with the integration process, such as finding housing, securing employment, and adapting to the local community.

• Expression of Interest (EOI) – Applicants to the Family Support Stream are typically required to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the MPNP. 

The EOI system allows candidates to provide detailed information about their qualifications, work experience, education, language proficiency, and other factors relevant to their potential nomination.

• Assessment and Invitation to Apply (ITA) – The submitted EOIs are assessed based on various factors, and candidates are assigned scores. 

Individuals with the highest scores may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for provincial nomination, indicating that they are invited to proceed with the formal application process for permanent residency.

• Application Process – Once invited, candidates need to submit a comprehensive application, providing supporting documents and demonstrating their eligibility for the Family Support Stream. 

The nominated individuals are expected to make Manitoba their primary place of residence and actively contribute to the community.

• Post-Nomination Responsibilities – Nominees through the Family Support Stream are encouraged to actively engage in the local community, contribute to the economy, and establish themselves as valued members of Manitoba.

As immigration policies undergo changes, individuals interested in settling in Manitoba are advised to regularly check the official MPNP website for the latest program updates and requirements. 

Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)

The province of Nova Scotia in Canada offers the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) as its primary immigration pathway for individuals seeking permanent residency.

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program includes various streams and categories, each targeting different groups of immigrants with diverse skills and backgrounds. 

Some key streams within the NSNP include:

Nova Scotia Demand – Express Entry Stream

Aligned with the federal Express Entry system, this stream selects candidates with skills and experience that are in demand in the province. 

To be eligible for this stream, candidates are required to secure a job offer from a Nova Scotia employer, demonstrating their commitment to contributing to the local labor market. 

The stream’s alignment with Express Entry facilitates a streamlined and efficient immigration process, enabling selected candidates to receive a provincial nomination and subsequently apply for permanent residency in Canada, establishing Nova Scotia as their new home. 

Nova Scotia Experience – Express Entry Stream

This stream is for individuals who have at least one year of work experience in Nova Scotia and are already in the federal Express Entry pool.

A job offer is not required for eligibility, but candidates must have the intent to live and work in Nova Scotia permanently.

Skilled Worker Stream

The Skilled Worker Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is designed to address specific labor market needs in the province by welcoming individuals who have secured a job offer from a Nova Scotia employer.

This stream is particularly tailored for skilled workers in occupations facing shortages in the local labor market, contributing to the economic growth and development of Nova Scotia.

To be eligible, applicants typically need to possess the necessary skills, qualifications, and work experience relevant to the identified occupational shortages. 

The stream’s focus on addressing specific workforce gaps ensures that successful candidates not only find employment opportunities in Nova Scotia but also contribute significantly to meeting the demands of the provincial economy. 

Entrepreneur Stream

The Entrepreneur Stream is designed for individuals who plan to start or acquire a business in Nova Scotia. 

Applicants are required to have a minimum net worth, invest in and actively manage a business, and create jobs for Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream

This stream is tailored for international graduates who have completed at least two years of full-time study at a recognized Nova Scotia university or community college. It allows them to start or operate a business in the province.

The NSNP operates through an Expression of Interest (EOI) system, where candidates interested in specific streams submit their profiles outlining their qualifications, work experience, and other relevant details. 

The province then invites selected candidates to apply for nomination based on their scores and the province’s economic and labor market needs.

Once nominated by Nova Scotia, candidates can apply to the federal government for permanent residence. Successful applicants become permanent residents of Canada and can live and work in Nova Scotia.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to stay informed about the latest criteria and requirements by regularly checking the official NSP website or consulting with immigration professionals for the most up-to-date information.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Permanent Residency (PR) programs for Nova Scotia, Manitoba, and Ontario offer diverse pathways for individuals seeking to make Canada their permanent home. 

Nova Scotia’s Nominee Program (NSNP) caters to specific labor market needs through streams like Nova Scotia Demand – Express Entry, welcoming skilled individuals with job offers. 

Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) features streams such as the Skilled Worker Stream and Business Investor Stream, fostering economic growth and entrepreneurial endeavors. 

Ontario’s Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) provides multiple pathways, including the Express Entry Human Capital Priorities Stream and the Business Category, attracting skilled workers and entrepreneurs. 

These programs collectively reflect Canada’s commitment to welcoming individuals with valuable skills, experiences, and contributions, contributing to the cultural and economic vibrancy of these provinces. 

Prospective immigrants are encouraged to stay informed about evolving program details and consult official sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Canada PR

Which province gives fastest PR in Canada?

Provinces like Saskatchewan and Alberta are known for faster processing under specific streams.

What is the PR program in Canada 2024?

The “PR program” refers to the entire Canadian immigration system. There are various pathways like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and more. 

Is Alberta easy to get PR?

Alberta can be easier for PR through specific PNP streams, but it depends on your profile and chosen program.

What is the cheapest province to live in Canada?

Generally, smaller provinces like Newfoundland are cheaper, while larger ones like Ontario are pricier. Research cost of living comparisons before making a move.

Which province is expensive in Canada?

Vancouver, Toronto, and Victoria are among the most expensive. 

Which province in Canada is best for jobs?

Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba generally have strong job markets.

Is Toronto very expensive?

Toronto is one of Canada’s most expensive cities due to housing costs and overall lifestyle.