Labour Market Needs / Skills Shortage (PNP criteria)
Statutory definition
PNP labour market criteria are set by each province under their federal-provincial immigration agreements. Provinces may require: a job offer from a provincial employer; evidence that the position is a genuine full-time permanent job; the employer meets minimum size and revenue thresholds; and the occupation is on the provincial in-demand occupation list. Some provinces prioritise occupations in healthcare, trades, and technology based on their economic planning.
Explanation
The provincial labour market assessment is the gatekeeping mechanism for most PNP streams with job offer requirements. It differs from the federal LMIA in that it is an immigration selection criterion — the province is certifying that this worker is needed in its economy and that nominating them serves provincial interests. Employers who provide job offers for PNP purposes must typically be in good standing with provincial employment laws and pay at least the prevailing wage for the occupation.