Maple News reports that both British Columbia and Alberta have recently extended invitations to immigration candidates through their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), reinforcing their commitment to targeted economic immigration.
On November 13, British Columbia conducted two draws under the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP), issuing a total of at least 25 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for provincial nomination. The draws targeted both general and specific occupation-based categories.
In a general draw across various streams—including Skilled Worker, International Graduate, and Entry-Level & Semi-Skilled—the province issued 10 ITAs. All skilled and graduate streams required a minimum score of 143, while Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled candidates needed a minimum score of 121.
An additional category-based draw targeted priority sectors such as childcare, construction, healthcare, and veterinary care. At least 15 candidates received invitations in this round, with minimum scores ranging from 80 to 113. This demonstrates British Columbia’s continued focus on attracting talent aligned with critical labor shortages across key industries.
Candidates may apply to the BC PNP through either a base nomination, which is independent of federal Express Entry, or through the Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) option. The EEBC route enhances the chance for faster processing of permanent residency applications once a provincial nomination has been secured.
To qualify under EEBC, candidates must first meet the eligibility criteria of one of Canada’s three Express Entry-managed programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, or the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
Meanwhile, Alberta has also issued new invitations to candidates via the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) and has updated its processing times for various immigration streams. While exact numbers from the recent draw were not disclosed, candidates in Alberta can now access more transparent timelines, aiding better preparation and planning for applicants.
These developments reflect ongoing provincial efforts to streamline immigration pathways and attract professionals who meet regional labor demands.
For more updates on Canada’s dynamic immigration landscape, stay tuned to Maple News.