Maple News reports that British Columbia has indefinitely suspended its new Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) streams for international graduates, leaving many recent and prospective graduates scrambling for alternative routes to Canadian permanent residency (PR).
The BC PNP previously offered two streams tailored to international students: the International Graduate and International Post-Graduate streams. The International Graduate stream was shut down on November 26, 2024, followed by the closure of the International Post-Graduate stream on January 7, 2025.
To replace these programs, the province initially announced three new pathways — the Bachelor’s Stream, Master’s Stream, and Doctorate Stream — which were scheduled to launch in January 2025. However, on April 14, 2025, BC announced an indefinite suspension of these new streams. According to the government, the suspension will remain in place until nomination allocation levels from the federal government are restored.
Additionally, BC PNP revealed that International Post-Graduate stream applications submitted after September 1, 2024, have been placed on a waitlist. This means many applicants who believed themselves to be on track for nomination are now in limbo with uncertain timelines.
Maple News notes that international students hoping to remain in Canada as permanent residents must now consider alternative immigration programs. One of the most prominent options is the federal Express Entry system, particularly the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), which is suited to those who have Canadian work experience — a common scenario for post-graduation work permit holders.
Other provincial nominee programs outside British Columbia, such as those offered in Ontario, Alberta, and Atlantic Canada, also provide alternatives for eligible candidates. Moreover, programs like the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) and the recently expanded Municipal Nominee Program (MNP) could offer new opportunities for graduates open to settling in smaller communities.
Maple News recommends that international graduates assess their circumstances carefully and consider seeking guidance from certified immigration professionals to understand which immigration pathways are still viable. While BC’s current freeze poses a significant challenge, multiple federal and provincial options remain open to qualified applicants.
As Canada continues to balance population growth with economic priorities, immigration policies remain subject to change. Maple News will continue monitoring the status of BC PNP and other PR programs to keep international graduates informed.