One of the most common questions among immigration applicants is: Which is better – the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or Express Entry? The answer depends on each applicant’s individual circumstances.
Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Which is Better?
If your CRS score is not high enough to be invited in federal draws, applying through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) can significantly increase your chances of receiving an invitation.
Since creating a profile in the Express Entry system is free, it is strongly recommended that all applicants submit one. If you are invited through Express Entry without the need for a PNP, this pathway is generally faster and simpler because you will avoid additional provincial processing steps.
Applying for PNP and Express Entry at the Same Time
Yes, you can apply through both pathways at the same time. Eventually, you must apply to the federal government for permanent residency in Canada. However, how you apply depends on the type of PNP you receive:
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Express Entry-Aligned PNPs (Enhanced):
In this case, you can submit your permanent residency application directly through the Express Entry system, which allows for faster processing. Receiving an Enhanced PNP adds 600 CRS points, essentially guaranteeing you an Invitation to Apply (ITA). -
Base PNPs:
These operate outside the Express Entry system. Applications must be submitted through a separate permanent residence portal. The processing times are usually longer compared to Enhanced PNPs.
How PNP Affects Your Express Entry Profile
If you receive a provincial nomination, 600 points will be added to your CRS score. This practically ensures that you will be invited in the next Express Entry draw.
Provinces with Express Entry-Aligned PNPs
Several provinces in Canada align their PNPs with the Express Entry system, including:
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Nova Scotia
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Ontario
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Prince Edward Island (PEI)
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Saskatchewan
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Alberta
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British Columbia
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Manitoba
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New Brunswick
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Newfoundland and Labrador
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Northwest Territories
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Yukon
Does Express Entry Close?
No. Unlike some immigration programs that open and close during the year, Express Entry remains open year-round, allowing candidates to submit their profiles at any time.
Express Entry vs. Permanent Residency
Express Entry is not itself a permanent residency program but rather a system that manages applications for permanent residency through several economic immigration programs.
Express Entry Draws
Approximately every two weeks, the Canadian government holds draws (rounds of invitations) and invites candidates who meet the CRS cut-off. The draws can take the following forms:
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All-program draws
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Program-specific draws
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Category-based draws
There is no fixed schedule, but draws are usually held on Tuesdays or Wednesdays.
What is an Express Entry Profile Number?
After creating your Express Entry profile, you will receive a unique profile number (starting with the letter “E”). This number will be used for tracking and correspondence.
Common Issues with Express Entry Login
Sometimes the IRCC portal experiences technical issues that prevent users from logging in. These problems are often resolved by clearing the browser cache or switching to another browser.
Can You Apply for Express Entry Without Work Experience?
No. All economic immigration programs managed under Express Entry require at least one year of skilled work experience. Without this minimum requirement, you are not eligible to create a profile or apply.
If your CRS score is low, the best option is to apply through an Express Entry-Aligned (Enhanced) PNP since it grants you an additional 600 points and faster processing. However, if you already have a competitive CRS score, applying directly through Express Entry is the quicker and simpler pathway.