Maple News reports that British Columbia extended a total of 494 invitations to immigration candidates through two separate Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws held on February 16, 2021. These invitations were part of the province’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled workers and graduates to meet labor market needs and support economic growth amid pandemic-related recovery.
A substantial 459 invitations were sent to candidates under the Skills Immigration (SI) and Express Entry BC (EEBC) streams. These included individuals from the Skilled Worker, International Graduate, and Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled categories. Scores required for eligibility in this draw ranged from 85 to 104 points, depending on the sub-category.
Additionally, a targeted draw issued 35 invitations to candidates employed as retail and wholesale trade managers, as well as restaurant and food service managers. British Columbia noted that this focused selection was due to a large volume of registrants in these specific occupational roles within its Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS).
The province also announced plans to resume invitations for candidates working in tourism, hospitality, retail, and personal services—sectors previously excluded from recent draws due to COVID-related impacts. This move is seen as a step toward a more inclusive selection process as economic activity resumes.
Since the beginning of 2021, British Columbia has conducted nine invitation rounds under the BC PNP, bringing the total number of invitations issued so far to 1,308. This consistent pace demonstrates the province’s commitment to attracting qualified talent through structured immigration pathways.
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program is designed to help meet the province’s labor demands by selecting and nominating immigration candidates who are positioned for success in the provincial job market. Candidates must first register under the SIRS and receive a score based on factors such as education, work experience, and language abilities. High-scoring individuals are then invited to apply for a provincial nomination, which can significantly increase their chances of receiving permanent residency in Canada.
Invited candidates have 30 days to submit a complete online application to the BC PNP. Once approved, nominees can proceed to apply for Canadian permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Maple News will continue to monitor and report on new developments in Canada’s provincial immigration programs, including future BC PNP draws and changes in selection criteria.