Maple News reports that British Columbia has continued its strong start to 2024 by issuing 474 invitations to apply (ITAs) through the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) over two consecutive draws held on February 10 and 11. The invitations were extended to both skilled workers and entrepreneurs seeking permanent residency in the province.
On February 10, the BC PNP focused on Entrepreneur Immigration, issuing a total of 14 invitations across its two entrepreneur streams. Thirteen were allocated under the Base stream—targeted at higher-investment candidates intending to establish or purchase a business anywhere in B.C.—with a minimum score requirement of 121. The remaining invitations, fewer than five, were issued under the Regional Pilot stream, which supports business development in smaller communities and required a minimum score of 105.
The Base stream generally caters to experienced entrepreneurs with a minimum net worth of $600,000 and a minimum investment of $200,000. It offers flexibility in business location and doesn’t require community endorsement. In contrast, the Regional Pilot stream supports smaller towns, requires a net worth of at least $300,000, and a $100,000 investment, along with a strong community connection and majority business ownership.
The following day, February 11, the province conducted a large-scale Skills Immigration draw, issuing 460 invitations to skilled workers. According to the BC PNP, these individuals were selected based on their ability to generate high economic impact across various sectors of the provincial economy.
Skills Immigration draws typically cover categories such as tech, health care, construction, and early childhood education—sectors facing ongoing labor shortages in British Columbia. Candidates selected through these draws often possess in-demand occupations, Canadian work experience, and strong educational backgrounds.
With these latest numbers, British Columbia continues to be a leading destination among provincial nominee programs, actively targeting individuals who have the talent and resources to support the province’s economic development and community growth.
As always, candidates who receive an invitation in a BC PNP draw gain a significant advantage in their pursuit of Canadian permanent residence, as provincial nomination awards 600 additional points under the federal Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
Maple News will continue to provide up-to-date coverage of PNP developments across Canada’s provinces.