Over the years, the immigration system of Canada has seen some changes. These changes are aimed at making things easier for immigrants. You can see the changes in its several PR streams, including the two most popular streams – Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). These streams have been favored by most newcomers to Canada over the past few years. 

With the many advantages that both streams offer, it gets difficult for immigrants to choose between the two. To help them make a better choice for getting a Canadian permanent resident visa, let’s look at the guide that compares both PNP and Express Entry streams in brief.

What Is an Express Entry System?  

The Express Entry system is an online application system used by the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. It is a fast and efficient way to apply for permanent residence. The Express Entry system manages applications for three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). 

The system works on a points system, where candidates are given points for factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills. It uses a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to assess and score candidates. The CRS is a points-based system that ranks candidates based on the information in their profile. The highest-ranking candidates are invited to apply for permanent residence. 

How Does an Express Entry System Work?

The Express Entry system is designed to be fast and efficient and it involves four main steps:

• Potential candidates complete an online Express Entry profile.
• The IRCC assesses the candidates against the criteria for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, or the Canadian Experience Class.
• If a candidate meets the criteria for one of these programs, they enter a pool of candidates.
• Finally, candidates are selected from the pool through regular draws and they are invited to apply for permanent residence.

The Express Entry system is just one of the ways in which skilled workers can apply for permanent residence in Canada. Candidates can also apply through the Provincial Nominee Program or they can be sponsored by a family member.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)  

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is a system that is governed by the provinces and territories in Canada and it has been around for over a decade. Each province and territory has a PNP that is tailored to suit their needs and the needs of their people. 

In the PNP program, you must be nominated by a province or territory willing to accept you and they will only accept you if they are looking for workers in your specific field. Candidates are assessed against provincial criteria, and if successful, they are nominated to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence through the Express Entry system. 

Eligible candidates for the PNP enter a provincial Express Entry pool and are ranked against each other using a point-based system.  

Provincial Nominee Program streams may target Express Entry candidates with specific work experience or skills or candidates with a connection to the province, such as having studied there or having family members living there. Candidates who are nominated by a province or territory receive additional points under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).  

If you receive an ITA, you will be asked to complete an online permanent residence application. You will need to provide information about your:

• Identity
• Travel documents
• Education
• Work experience
• Language skills
• Employer
• Funds
• Family members
• Admissibility 
• Fingerprints and photos (biometrics)

PNP or Express Entry: Which Is Better? 

There are many factors to consider when deciding whether the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or Express Entry is more advantageous. Some factors to consider include your specific skills and qualifications, the needs of the province you are interested in, and the current Express Entry intake numbers. Each program has its advantages and disadvantages. It is important to assess your situation and need to decide which program is right for you. 

The PNP allows provinces to nominate individuals for permanent residence based on the specific needs of the province. If you have skills and qualifications that match the needs of a particular province, the PNP may be advantageous for you. Express Entry, on the other hand, is a federal program that does not focus on the needs of specific provinces. 

If you are not sure which province you would like to live in, Express Entry may be the better option. The Express Entry system is the newest system that has been put in place to favor applicants with more points who can easily adapt to the Canadian lifestyle.  

Ultimately, which system is more advantageous for Canada Express PR depends on your circumstances. If you are unsure, it is best to consult an immigration consultant or other qualified professionals to help you make the best decision for your individual case. We hope the above information has helped you understand both programs and make a better choice.