What is the difference between Express Entry and PNP for Canada?

Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) are two distinct immigration pathways for Canada, each with its own eligibility criteria and application process:

1. Express Entry:
   • Express Entry is a federal immigration system used to manage applications for permanent residence under three main economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
   • To apply through Express Entry, candidates must first create an online profile and be eligible for one of the three federal programs mentioned above. They are then ranked based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency, and other adaptability factors.
   • Candidates with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores are invited to apply for permanent residence through regular draws conducted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
   • Express Entry is a federal program and does not require a job offer from a specific province or territory.
2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):
   • The Provincial Nominee Program is designed to allow Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who wish to immigrate to a specific province or territory and have the skills, education, and work experience needed to contribute to the local economy.
   • Each province and territory in Canada operates its own PNP, with specific streams and eligibility criteria tailored to its economic and demographic needs. These programs target individuals who meet specific criteria set by the province or territory, such as having a job offer from an employer in the province, meeting specific labor market needs, or having ties to the province through education, work experience, or family.
   • Candidates nominated by a province or territory through the PNP receive additional points under the Express Entry system, which increases their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry.

In summary, while both Express Entry and PNP are pathways to permanent residence in Canada, Express Entry is a federal immigration system managed by IRCC and is not tied to a specific province or territory, whereas the Provincial Nominee Program allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet their specific economic and demographic needs. Additionally, candidates nominated through a PNP stream receive additional points under the Express Entry system, enhancing their chances of being invited to apply for permanent residence.