Maple News reports that three Canadian provinces—British Columbia, Alberta, and Prince Edward Island—issued invitations this past week to skilled workers and graduates under their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), aiming to attract talent in key sectors facing labour shortages.
British Columbia led the activity, issuing over 200 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through its Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams, including those aligned with Express Entry. These invitations targeted candidates in five high-demand areas: childcare, construction, healthcare, tech, and veterinary care. Minimum scores to qualify varied by sector, ranging from 60 to 108, with tech workers requiring the highest score.
Alberta issued 44 Notifications of Interest on February 6 under its Dedicated Healthcare Pathway—a stream within the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). These were specifically aimed at healthcare professionals who have a valid job offer in the province. This move is part of Alberta’s initiative to address ongoing regional shortages in medical staff by attracting qualified immigrants willing to settle and work in the province.
Further details on Prince Edward Island’s PNP invitations this week were not disclosed at the time of reporting, but historically, the province has focused on labour market needs in sectors such as healthcare, food processing, and truck driving. PEI uses a regular invitation schedule to manage its immigration priorities.
Provincial Nominee Programs allow Canadian provinces and territories to select immigrants who are most suited to fill their local labour gaps. While each PNP operates independently with its own criteria and scoring systems, nominations often lead to permanent residence applications through Canada’s federal immigration framework, including Express Entry.
These targeted draws are part of a broader strategy to align immigration with labour market demand, offering opportunities to foreign workers and graduates, and helping Canadian communities grow sustainably.
According to Maple News, as Canada continues to expand its immigration levels plan, provincial initiatives like these represent a critical pathway for newcomers aiming for Canadian permanent residence through employment-based options.
For skilled professionals seeking a move to Canada, staying attuned to PNP updates presents a timely opportunity to secure long-term settlement and employment.