Looking to settle in Canada through provincial immigration? Discover the easiest provinces to get PR in Canada, including Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and the Atlantic provinces. Learn about PNPs with low requirements, fast processing times, and higher nomination chances to help you make the smartest move towards Canadian permanent residence.
Why Some Provinces Make It Easier to Get PR in Canada
Canada offers multiple immigration pathways, but when it comes to securing permanent residence (PR), some provinces stand out for their simpler processes, faster timelines, and more flexible criteria. These provinces typically have high labour shortages, lower population densities, and strong provincial nominee programmes (PNPs) designed to attract newcomers who can fill economic and demographic gaps.
Through Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs), individual provinces and territories can nominate eligible immigrants who wish to settle in a specific region. PNPs are a popular route for those who may not score high enough in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) used in Express Entry. Some provinces offer easier access to PR through low requirements, frequent draws, and priority streams targeting in-demand occupations.
In this guide, we’ll explore the easiest provinces to get PR in Canada, breaking down their provincial nominee streams, processing speed, and eligibility criteria. Whether you’re a skilled worker, international student, or temporary worker, this information can help you assess your immigration options and choose the best path to permanent residency.
Saskatchewan: A Popular Choice for Easy PR
Why Saskatchewan PNP Is Considered One of the Easiest
Saskatchewan is often cited as one of the easiest provinces to get PR in Canada, thanks to its well-structured Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). The SINP offers various streams for international skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates, many of which do not require a job offer or Canadian work experience.
Key Streams Under SINP
- International Skilled Worker – Express Entry: For candidates in the federal Express Entry pool who meet Saskatchewan’s criteria.
- International Skilled Worker – Occupation In-Demand: Allows skilled workers in high-demand occupations to apply without needing a job offer.
- Saskatchewan Experience Category: For foreign nationals already working in Saskatchewan on a valid work permit.
Advantages of Saskatchewan PNP
- Low IELTS requirement – CLB 4 or 5 accepted for some streams.
- No job offer needed under the Occupation In-Demand stream.
- Large number of occupations eligible under the in-demand list.
- Regular invitations with relatively low EOI (Expression of Interest) scores.
With a friendly nomination process, high demand for skilled talent, and flexible criteria, Saskatchewan remains one of the top choices for applicants seeking an easier route to Canadian PR.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, try our free immigration assessment to determine your eligibility for SINP and other PNPs.
Manitoba: High Nomination Chances and Family Ties
Manitoba Immigration Pathways
Manitoba’s Manitoba Provincial Nominee Programme (MPNP) is another favourable pathway for those looking to settle in Canada. The province is known for its strong economy, affordable living, and community-focused immigration streams that make it easier for newcomers to integrate.
Key Streams in MPNP
- Skilled Worker in Manitoba: For temporary foreign workers and international graduates with job offers in Manitoba.
- Skilled Worker Overseas: For applicants with strong connections to Manitoba (family, friends, work experience, or education).
- International Education Stream: For graduates from Manitoba institutions who wish to stay and work in the province.
Why Manitoba Offers High Nomination Chances
- Points-based system that favours applicants with Manitoba connections.
- Low CRS-like score thresholds compared to federal Express Entry draws.
- Support for rural immigration through the Strategic Recruitment Initiative (SRI).
Manitoba also values adaptability and community roots, so having family or friends in the province can significantly boost your chances. Those with previous work or study experience in Manitoba are also prioritized.
To explore your Canadian immigration options through Manitoba, consider how your background aligns with the province’s labour needs and nomination criteria.
The Atlantic Provinces: Fast PR Through Atlantic Immigration and PNPs
Why the Atlantic Region Is a Great Option
The Atlantic provinces—Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island (PEI), and Newfoundland & Labrador—offer some of the fastest and most accessible immigration options in Canada through both their PNPs and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).
These provinces face significant demographic challenges and workforce shortages, making them eager to attract skilled workers, international graduates, and intermediate-skilled applicants. Programmes here often have low requirements PNP and quick processing times.
Nova Scotia Nominee Programme (NSNP)
The NSNP offers several streams where candidates may be nominated directly from the Express Entry pool or through targeted occupations.
- Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities Stream: Targets specific occupations in demand, no job offer required.
- Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry: For candidates with at least one year of work experience in Nova Scotia.
Prince Edward Island PNP (PEI PNP)
The PEI PNP is known for its streamlined process for skilled workers and business investors.
- Express Entry Category: For candidates already in the federal Express Entry system with skills matching provincial needs.
- Labour Impact Category: For individuals with valid job offers in PEI.
PEI also regularly holds draws for candidates with relatively low CRS scores, increasing nomination chances for qualified applicants.
Newfoundland & Labrador PNP
This province focuses on skilled workers in technology, healthcare, and other high-demand sectors. Their PNP includes the following streams:
- Skilled Worker Stream
- International Graduate Stream
- Priority Skills NL: Targets tech professionals and researchers.
Newfoundland & Labrador also participates in the Atlantic Immigration Program, allowing designated employers to hire foreign workers directly and support their PR applications.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The AIP is a federal-provincial initiative that allows employers in the Atlantic provinces to hire skilled workers and support their PR applications without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Benefits of AIP
- Faster processing compared to many other PR programmes.
- Lower language and education requirements.
- Employer-driven with strong settlement support.
This programme is an excellent choice for applicants seeking fast processing provinces for PR and a smoother transition into Canadian life.
Rural and Northern Immigration: Hidden Gems for Easier PR
What Is the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)?
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot is designed to help smaller Canadian communities attract and retain foreign workers. It provides a direct pathway to PR for candidates who secure a job offer in one of the participating rural communities.
Key Features of RNIP
- Lower CRS-like requirements compared to Express Entry.
- Employer-driven with a focus on community integration.
- Streamlined PR process once community recommendation is obtained.
Communities in Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan participate in RNIP, offering a unique opportunity for applicants interested in rural immigration and a quieter lifestyle.
To determine your eligibility for RNIP or other regional programmes, professional guidance can help you develop a targeted immigration strategy.
The provinces covered so far show that choosing the right region can significantly improve your chances of becoming a Canadian permanent resident. Whether it’s through low requirements PNP streams, fast processing provinces, or employer-backed initiatives, there’s a Canadian province that fits your profile.
Alberta: Growing Opportunities and Flexible Immigration Streams
Why Alberta Is Becoming a Prominent PR Destination
Alberta is one of Canada’s fastest-growing provinces, with a strong economy, affordable living costs, and a high demand for skilled workers. Its Provincial Nominee Programme—known as the Alberta Advantage Immigration Programme (AAIP)—is a promising option for many newcomers. Alberta’s immigration streams are known for having relatively low CRS score requirements, inviting Express Entry candidates with scores as low as 300 in some cases.
Top Streams Under the AAIP
- Alberta Express Entry Stream: Selects candidates from the federal Express Entry pool with ties to Alberta or who work in in-demand occupations.
- Rural Renewal Stream: Targets skilled workers with job offers in rural Alberta communities.
- Alberta Opportunity Stream: For individuals already working in Alberta on a valid work permit.
Advantages of the Alberta PNP
- Lower CRS thresholds than many other provinces.
- No job offer required for the Express Entry stream (if invited by the province).
- Frequent draws and transparent selection criteria.
- Growing tech and healthcare sectors offering job opportunities.
Those with previous Alberta work experience, degrees from Alberta institutions, or close family ties will have increased nomination chances. If you’re exploring provincial nominee programmes with flexible criteria, Alberta is worth considering.
Not sure if Alberta fits your profile? Complete a free immigration assessment to evaluate your chances of getting nominated under AAIP.
Ontario: Targeted PR Opportunities Through Key Streams
Ontario Immigration Options Beyond the CRS Race
While Ontario is Canada’s most populous province and a popular destination for newcomers, its Provincial Nominee Programme (OINP) offers targeted pathways for those who may not have high CRS scores. Ontario focuses on in-demand occupations, French-speaking candidates, and skilled workers in the tech sector.
The Ontario Immigrant Nominee Programme (OINP) includes both employer-driven and human capital streams. The province regularly invites candidates from the Express Entry pool to apply under its Tech Draws and other focused streams.
Key Streams Under OINP
- Human Capital Priorities Stream: Targets Express Entry candidates with experience in selected occupations.
- Skilled Trades Stream: For tradespeople working in Ontario with at least 12 months of work experience.
- Employer Job Offer Streams: For foreign workers with job offers in Ontario.
- French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: Prioritizes bilingual candidates for federal Express Entry nominations.
Benefits of Ontario PNP
- Regular invitation rounds targeting specific occupations.
- Opportunities for tech professionals through the Tech Draws.
- Options for lower CRS candidates in targeted professions.
Ontario may not always be considered one of the easiest provinces PR seekers think of due to competition, but targeted streams make it accessible for the right candidates. If you have relevant skills or language abilities, your nomination chances may be higher than expected.
You can improve your CRS score or explore provincial pathways like OINP to increase your odds of success.
Other Noteworthy Provinces with Accessible PR Streams
British Columbia: Tech Talent and International Graduates Welcome
British Columbia (BC) is known for its diverse economy, scenic beauty, and strong job market, particularly in the tech, healthcare, and construction sectors. The BC Provincial Nominee Programme (BC PNP) offers several streams for foreign workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs.
Popular BC PNP Streams
- Skills Immigration: For skilled workers with job offers in BC.
- Express Entry BC: Linked to the federal Express Entry system.
- Tech Pilot: Prioritizes workers in 29 in-demand tech occupations with expedited processing.
BC’s Tech Pilot is one of the fastest options for tech professionals, making the province a great destination for those in IT, digital media, engineering, and related fields. The province also welcomes international graduates from BC institutions through specific post-graduate streams.
If you’re studying in Canada and considering your pathway to PR, British Columbia offers clear options for staying after graduation and transitioning to permanent residence.
New Brunswick and Northern Territories: Smaller Populations, Bigger Opportunities
New Brunswick, one of the Atlantic provinces, also runs its own PNP with employer support and community-driven immigration. The province participates in the AIP and offers industry-specific pilot programmes in nursing, trucking, and hospitality.
The New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Programme is ideal for applicants with job offers or work experience in the province. It’s also known for welcoming French-speaking immigrants due to the province’s bilingual status.
Meanwhile, the Yukon and Northwest Territories offer unique opportunities for applicants seeking adventure, high wages, and close-knit communities. These territories run their own PNPs with employer sponsorship and prioritize occupations in demand, such as healthcare, trades, and hospitality.
Why Consider Smaller Provinces and Territories?
- Less competition for PNP nominations.
- Simplified immigration processes with employer support.
- High demand for skilled and semi-skilled workers.
These regions may not be as well-known but offer significant advantages for immigrants who value community life, job security, and permanent residency opportunities.
Tips to Improve Your Nomination Chances
Even in the easiest provinces PR applicants target, preparation is key. Here are some expert tips to boost your success:
1. Build Local Connections
Many PNPs value ties to the province. This could be through previous work or study, family members, or even a valid job offer. For example, Manitoba immigration specifically prioritizes candidates with established connections.
2. Target In-Demand Occupations
Each province publishes occupation lists outlining skilled roles with shortages. Applying under a listed occupation—especially in healthcare, tech, construction, or education—can significantly boost your nomination chances.
3. Improve Your Language Score
While some low requirements PNP streams accept CLB levels as low as 4 or 5, a higher language score will improve your profile and help with Express Entry-linked PNPs. Consider retaking IELTS or CELPIP to enhance your score.
4. Tailor Your Application to the Province
Each province has its own selection criteria, community needs, and economic priorities. Research thoroughly and ensure your application aligns with the specific requirements of the province you’re applying to.
5. Seek Professional Immigration Guidance
Working with a licensed immigration consultant can help you create a strategic plan, avoid costly mistakes, and assess your immigration options across multiple provinces. This is especially helpful if your case is complex or you need help navigating provincial rules and document requirements.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Province for Your PR Journey
Canada’s immigration system offers flexibility and opportunity, especially through its Provincial Nominee Programmes. Whether you’re a skilled worker, international student, or temporary resident, choosing the right province can make your journey to permanent residency smoother and faster.
From the job-rich prairies of Saskatchewan and Manitoba to the employer-driven programmes in the Atlantic provinces, and from Alberta’s low CRS thresholds to rural community pilots across the country, there is a path for everyone.
If you’re ready to begin or refine your immigration journey, we recommend starting with a free immigration assessment to determine your eligibility and explore the best provincial streams based on your profile.
At Immigration to Canada (EverNorth), we’re committed to helping you find the right path. With expert guidance, a personalised strategy, and support at every step, we can help make your Canadian dream a reality.
Let your journey begin today—because the easiest province to get PR in Canada is the one that fits you best.
