Which Provincial Nominee Program is Simplest in Canada and What is the Process?

Immigrating to Canada using a PNP is generally not recommended as the best option by the Sobirovs team, given the average of two to four years to complete the application process, higher required investment amounts, increased competitiveness among applicants, and the bureaucratic nature of the process. While the PNP Canada immigration route may not be optimal, some programs are simpler to apply for than others, depending upon the individual entrepreneur applying for the program, as well as his or her expertise, work experience, and other factors.

The Easiest PNP in Canada

Saskatchewan’s Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) may often be the simplest program for many foreign entrepreneurs. The program’s Entrepreneur stream targets experienced business managers or business owners interested in moving to Saskatchewan. Nomination by Saskatchewan for its provincial nominee program may also benefit a nonresident’s chances of being approved for permanent residence in Canada, as Saskatchewan allocates additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for applicants with family members or cousins staying in the province, unlike other provinces which only do so for blood relatives.

What is the Process for Saskatchewan’s PNP Entrepreneur Stream?

Among the streams offered by Saskatchewan’s Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), the Entrepreneur stream is designed to attract foreign business owners or managers with experience and an interest in moving to Saskatchewan. To be eligible, an entrepreneur must first demonstrate the ability, interest, and resources to own and actively manage a business in the province. The entrepreneur must generally have at least three years of experience as a manager or entrepreneur within the previous 10 years and must commit to maintaining an active role within the proposed business.

The entrepreneur must generally have a minimum net worth of at least $500,000 CAD as well as an investment of $200,000 to $300,000. Saskatchewan also requires applicants to develop a Business Establishment Plan (BEP) demonstrating how the entrepreneur intends to establish and invest in the new business. Further, the proposed business must create at least two employment opportunities for Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

An interested foreign entrepreneur must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) before then being ranked against other entrepreneurs with the highest-ranking candidates being invited to apply to the Entrepreneur stream. The entrepreneur will then have 20 business days to pay the $2,500 CAD processing fee as well as to choose a designated third-party financial review source to assess and verify the entrepreneur’s proposed investment amount and net worth.

After completing the application within 90 days of receiving the invitation, the entrepreneur must then interview with SINP officials. If the application is approved, the entrepreneur will then sign a business performance agreement before Saskatchewan will issue a work permit support letter. After operating the new business for at least 6 months and meeting conditions of the business performance agreement, the entrepreneur may then submit an official request to SINP for a provincial nomination, which if approved, will then allow the nonresident to apply for permanent residence.

While Saskatchewan’s PNP may be simpler than in other provinces, applying without the help of experienced professionals may put you at a serious disadvantage. An experienced immigration team member with Sobirovs Law Firm can help you understand your options and help you navigate the application process for the PNP as well as the federal permanent residency process. You can book your 1-hour Strategy Meeting with a senior business immigration lawyer who will answer all your questions.