Maple News reports that British Columbia (B.C.), Alberta, and Quebec have issued fresh invitations to immigration candidates this past week, continuing Canada’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled newcomers to support regional labor demands and demographic sustainability.
Most provinces and territories in Canada operate Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), designed to allow local governments to nominate immigrants who meet regional economic and workforce needs. Quebec remains an exception, having a special agreement with the federal government that grants the province sole authority to manage its own economic immigration intake.
Between May 25 and May 31:
British Columbia conducted two separate invitation rounds under its British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) on May 28. In a general draw, 35 candidates across five streams were invited to apply. These included Skilled Workers, International Graduates, and Entry Level or Semi-Skilled Workers. All streams except Entry Level required a minimum score of 131, while the Entry Level and Semi-Skilled stream required a score of 110. Candidates submitted applications either through the direct BCPNP or via the Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) pathway.
In addition to the general draw, B.C. also held targeted draws focused on specific in-demand occupations, although further details on those occupational categories were not immediately released.
Meanwhile, Alberta and Quebec also selected provincial candidates this week. While Alberta operates under the standard PNP system, Quebec utilizes its own immigration selection model due to its unique administrative arrangement with the federal government. Through these selections, all three provinces remain committed to addressing labor shortages and attracting skilled talent to drive regional growth.
These provincial draws are a key part of Canada’s broader immigration strategy, aligning local economic goals with national population growth targets. As federal-provincial collaboration continues, candidates with the right skills and experience will find increasing opportunities to apply for Canadian permanent residence through these regional programs.