This program was introduced in 1998, PNP is the second foremost way to immigrate to Canada as a skilled worker after the Express Entry. Almost every province in Canada runs this program to welcome skilled workers from all over the world, which is helpful for both the candidate and Canada to grow economically. This program is for the workers who are skilled, educated and have work experience in contributing to fulfilling the shortage of skills specific to that province. The applicant must have the intention to live in that province to become a permanent resident of Canada.

The eligibility criteria under PNPs vary from province to province. As this program is part of an economic immigration strategy, some PNPs emphasize the immigrants who have experience in occupations that are in demand in that province. Other PNPs prefer immigrants who have a connection to the province, like a relative, as this increases the chance that they will remain in the province.

Each province, except Quebec and Nunavut, runs several PNP streams. These streams are designed by the provinces to help in meeting their unique immigration goals, so the eligibility criteria vary for each province.