Maple News reports that both British Columbia and Manitoba have issued new invitations through their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), opening more pathways for prospective immigrants to apply for Canadian permanent residency. The latest rounds of invitations, held between May 11 and May 24, focused on addressing labour shortages and supporting provincial economic goals by targeting specific in-demand occupations.
In British Columbia, the Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) conducted two invitation rounds on May 14 and May 22. The May 14 draw included a general selection process that invited 37 candidates from a variety of skilled immigration streams—Skilled Worker, Skilled Worker via Express Entry BC (EEBC), International Graduate, International Graduate EEBC, and Entry Level & Semi-Skilled. The minimum score ranged from 107 to 131, depending on the stream.
That same day, B.C. also conducted targeted draws for critical occupations. Invitations were sent to candidates with experience in childcare (minimum score: 90), construction (93), healthcare (100), and veterinary care (80). These targeted draws ensure that the province addresses pressing workforce needs in essential sectors.
A second targeted draw was held on May 22, resulting in at least 75 further invitations. Eligible candidates had work experience in childcare (93), construction (93), healthcare (100), veterinary care (80), and notably, tech professions, where a high cut-off score of 122 emphasized the demand in this sector.
Meanwhile, Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) also issued invitations during this period, although fewer details were released at this time. The province’s focus remains on selecting immigrants who possess skills aligned with Manitoba’s labour market and demographic objectives. Like other PNPs, Manitoba uses its own scoring method, which is distinct from systems used in other provinces.
It’s important to note that each province sets its own selection criteria and scoring system for its PNP streams. Scores cannot be directly compared between provinces, as each program adjusts cut-offs based on local economic developments and skill shortages.
Provincial Nominee Programs are a vital component of Canada’s broader immigration strategy, successfully bringing skilled workers into regional economies that benefit from targeted labour market support. Many PNP streams are aligned with the federal Express Entry system, allowing selected candidates to benefit from faster processing times for permanent residency applications.
Maple News continues to track developments across all provinces as Canada strategically invites skilled newcomers to support economic growth, innovation, and community resilience.