Maple News reports that the provinces of British Columbia and Prince Edward Island issued a new round of immigration invitations through their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) during the week of April 13 to April 19, 2024.
As a reminder, Provincial Nominee Programs allow Canadian provinces and territories—excluding Quebec and Nunavut—to nominate skilled foreign workers who meet specific regional labour market and demographic needs. Each province designs its PNP to attract candidates whose skills and experience align with local economic priorities.
On April 16, British Columbia held a series of immigration draws under the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP). In its general draw, the province invited 39 candidates from the Skilled Worker, Skilled Worker – Express Entry BC (EEBC) option, International Graduate, International Graduate – EEBC option, and Entry Level and Semi-Skilled streams. Most candidates required a minimum score of 132, while those in the Entry Level and Semi-Skilled stream needed a minimum of 107.
British Columbia also conducted four targeted draws for key occupational sectors within the Skilled Worker and International Graduate categories. These draws resulted in a further 40 invitations distributed as follows:
– 12 invitations in childcare occupations (minimum score: 92)
– 10 in construction (minimum score: 97)
– 18 in healthcare (minimum score: 92)
– Fewer than five in veterinary care (minimum score: 80)
Meanwhile, Prince Edward Island issued 82 invitations through its Provincial Nominee Program on April 18. These were distributed under the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams and targeted candidates working in healthcare, manufacturing, construction, and traditional sectors.
While Quebec operates its own separate selection system under an immigration agreement with the federal government, all other Canadian provinces continue to leverage their PNPs to support workforce development and long-term population growth.
Maple News will continue to monitor and report on provincial immigration activity, which remains one of the most dynamic and accessible pathways for skilled workers looking to secure permanent residency in Canada.