The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) continues its efforts to fill key labour shortages across the province by inviting skilled workers and international graduates through its Skills Immigration stream. In the latest draw, held on September 4, 2024, British Columbia PNP issued invitations to various candidates, emphasizing professions in healthcare, childcare, and skilled trades.
Key Highlights from the Latest BC PNP Draw
In the recent draw, British Columbia PNP targeted specific occupations to address the province’s labour market needs. A total of 158 invitations were issued to skilled workers, international graduates, and entry-level or semi-skilled workers. Here’s a breakdown of the draw:
| Draw Type | Stream | Minimum Score | Number of Invitations |
| General | Skilled Worker | 128 | 75 |
| Skilled Worker – EEBC option | 128 | ||
| International Graduate | 128 | ||
| International Graduate – EEBC option | 128 | ||
| Entry Level & Semi-Skilled | 110 | ||
| Childcare | Skilled Worker, International Graduate (includes EEBC option) | 83 | 31 |
| Construction | Various construction roles | 89 | 33 |
| Healthcare | Healthcare professionals | 99 | 19 |
| Veterinary Care | Veterinary professionals | 80 | <5 |
The Focus of the Skills Immigration Program
The British Columbia PNP Skills Immigration stream is designed to attract foreign nationals who possess the skills needed to contribute to the province’s economic growth. The selection of candidates is based on a range of factors, including:
- Education: The level and field of education, including where it was completed.
- Professional Designations: Eligible designations recognized within B.C.
- Language Skills: Proficiency in English or French.
- Occupation: Specific occupation targeting labour market needs.
- Work Experience: The skill level and duration of previous work experience.
- Wage and Job Offer: Consideration of the salary and the skill level required for the job offer.
- Regional Focus: The candidate’s intent is to live, work, and settle in a specific region within British Columbia.
- Strategic Priorities: Addressing critical labour shortages and supporting government initiatives or pilot programs.
This targeted approach helps ensure that the province continues to attract highly qualified individuals who are essential to British Columbia’s thriving economy.
Sectors Receiving Special Focus
In addition to the general draw, the BC PNP continues to focus on specific sectors in high demand. The September 4, 2024 draws highlighted key industries like healthcare and childcare. These sectors are critical to British Columbia’s long-term development, particularly as the population grows and the demand for qualified professionals increases.
For example, a minimum score of 83 was required for childcare workers, while healthcare professionals were selected with scores of 99. Additionally, professionals in veterinary care were selected with a minimum score of 80. These draws help address urgent needs in these essential sectors and ensure that B.C. has a sustainable workforce for the future.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
The British Columbia PNP offers various streams for candidates to apply for permanent residency. If you received an invitation in the latest draw, the next step involves submitting a full application to the province. Successful applicants can then apply for permanent residence with the federal government.
This program has been an integral part of the province’s strategy to manage labour shortages and help employers fill vital roles across industries. With the continued issuance of invitations, British Columbia Immigration is actively creating opportunities for skilled workers and graduates worldwide to contribute to the province’s growth.
The British Columbia PNP continues to play a crucial role in addressing labour market gaps by inviting skilled workers, graduates, and professionals in healthcare and other critical sectors. With each draw, the program ensures that the province has the talent necessary to sustain its economic development. As British Columbia remains one of Canada’s most attractive provinces for immigration, candidates should keep an eye on future draws and opportunities to apply for permanent residency through British Columbia Immigration.
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