British Columbia Issues Invitations
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) conducted its latest draw on June 25, 2024, issuing invitations to apply for provincial nomination to skilled workers and international graduates across various streams.
In this general draw, the BC PNP invited candidates from the following streams:
- Skilled Worker
- Skilled Worker – Express Entry BC (EEBC) option
- International Graduate
- International Graduate – EEBC option
- Entry Level and Semi-Skilled
For all these streams, the minimum score requirement was set at 134 points. The total number of invitations issued for these general categories was 35.
In addition to the general draw, the BC PNP also conducted targeted draws for specific sectors experiencing high labor demand:
- Childcare:
- Minimum score: 97
- Invitations issued: 6
- Construction:
- Minimum score: 97
- Invitations issued: 11
- Healthcare:
- Minimum score: 106
- Invitations issued: 11
- Veterinary care:
- Minimum score: 80
- Invitations issued: Less than 5
These sector-specific invitations were issued under the Skilled Worker and International Graduate categories, including those with the EEBC option.
The varied score requirements across different sectors reflect British Columbia’s strategic approach to addressing specific labor market needs. The higher minimum score for healthcare (106) compared to childcare and construction (both 97) suggests a more competitive applicant pool in the healthcare sector.
It’s noteworthy that the veterinary care sector had the lowest score requirement at 80, possibly indicating a pressing need for professionals in this field. However, with fewer than 5 invitations issued, it appears to be a highly targeted selection.
This draw demonstrates British Columbia’s continued commitment to attracting skilled workers and international graduates to support its growing economy. The inclusion of the Express Entry BC option in multiple streams also highlights the province’s integration with the federal Express Entry system, providing candidates with additional pathways to permanent residency in Canada.
For prospective immigrants, this draw underscores the importance of not only achieving a competitive score but also considering in-demand sectors when planning their immigration journey to British Columbia. The targeted draws for childcare, construction, healthcare, and veterinary care present opportunities for candidates with experience in these fields.
As always, candidates who received invitations in this draw will now have the opportunity to submit a full application for provincial nomination. If nominated, they can then apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The Canada Time will continue to monitor and report on future BC PNP draws, providing valuable insights for those looking to make British Columbia their new home.
