Maple News reports that the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) issued 429 invitations to apply (ITAs) in a highly selective draw held on February 4, 2026. This targeted draw aimed to identify and invite candidates capable of contributing significant economic value to the province, focusing on high earners and high-scoring individuals within the Skills Immigration system.
The invitations were split between two key pathways: high-wage workers and top-ranking registrants based on BC’s Skills Immigration points system. A total of 206 invitations were issued to candidates who met a stringent wage requirement—earning at least $70 per hour (equivalent to approximately $145,000 per year)—alongside having a valid job offer in occupations classified under NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
The remaining 223 invitations were extended to candidates with registration scores of 138 or higher. This score significantly surpasses average previous thresholds, indicating the province’s strategic focus on candidates with exceptional credentials.
Data from the provincial candidate pool as of January 6, 2026, underscores the competitiveness of this draw. Only 9 individuals had scores above 150, while 67 registrants fell within the 140–149 range. A much larger portion—791 candidates—scored between 130–139, just below the cutoff. With over 11,200 active profiles in the system, the draw effectively selected only the top-tier applicants.
British Columbia has been increasing its emphasis on applicants deemed to have a ‘high economic impact,’ with income and points-based metrics playing a key role in selection. The province indicated that future draws with similar targeting may factor in additional variables, referencing section 7.3(a) of the Skills Immigration Program Guide for more detailed criteria.
These changes reflect BC’s broader strategy of attracting talented professionals who can make long-term contributions to its economy and labor market. By tightening its criteria, the BC PNP aims to align immigration more closely with provincial priorities and evolving workforce needs.
This February draw aligns with a pattern seen across Canada’s provinces, where immigration systems are adapting to post-pandemic labor shortages and growth priorities—an important evolution for candidates seeking regional pathways to permanent residency in Canada.