Maple News reports that two of Canada’s largest provinces have conducted new selection rounds under their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), inviting skilled immigrant candidates to apply for permanent residency. Meanwhile, Saskatchewan has officially closed one of its targeted immigration pilot initiatives.
On September 5, 2024, Ontario issued 96 Notifications of Interest (NOIs) through its French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream, part of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). Selected candidates had Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores between 290 and 393. This stream is aimed at French-speaking individuals qualified under the federal Express Entry pool and having the necessary education, professional experience, and settlement capabilities to reside in Ontario. Applicants can only proceed with a permanent residence application after receiving an NOI from the province.
British Columbia also conducted new PNP draws on September 4, issuing invitations through several categories. In a general draw, 75 candidates were invited across the Skilled Worker, International Graduate, and Entry Level & Semi-Skilled streams. The minimum scores required ranged from 110 to 128, depending on the stream.
In a targeted round, British Columbia focused on applicants with experience in priority occupations critical to the provincial economy—including the childcare sector. The province invited 84 candidates with scores between 80 and 99, reflecting its strategy of aligning immigration with pressing labor market needs.
In a significant program update, Saskatchewan announced the permanent closure of its Hard-to-Fill Skills Pilot under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), effective August 30, 2024. The province will no longer accept applications or job approval forms under this stream. However, applications already submitted with valid job approval documents will continue to be processed.
This shift is part of Saskatchewan’s goal to streamline immigration programs and improve settlement outcomes. The province emphasizes that other categories under the SINP remain operational. Prospective applicants are encouraged to explore alternative pathways, with information sessions scheduled for September 6 and 11, 2024.
These recent updates reflect ongoing efforts by Canadian provinces to refine their immigration strategies, addressing local labor shortages while offering skilled professionals from abroad the opportunity to build their future in Canada.