Maple News reports that British Columbia, Quebec, and Prince Edward Island have issued new invitations for permanent residency under their respective provincial immigration programs between August 17 and 23. These draws aim to attract skilled workers and international graduates who can contribute to the local labor market.
British Columbia conducted four separate draws under its Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) on August 20, extending a total of 156 invitations. The largest of these was a general draw, inviting 83 candidates across the Skilled Worker, International Graduate, and Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled streams. Candidates in this draw were required to meet a minimum provincial score of 130, except for the Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled category, which required a lower threshold of 110.
The BC PNP is known for holding draws on a near-weekly basis, providing regular opportunities for prospective immigrants. The program uses its own points-based system, similar to the federal Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), to evaluate and rank candidates based on factors such as job offer, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
Meanwhile, Prince Edward Island also issued invitations through its Provincial Nominee Program during the same period. Like other PNPs across Canada, PEI’s program focuses on selecting individuals who meet the specific economic and labor market needs of the province.
Quebec, which does not operate a Provincial Nominee Program, maintains its own immigration authority through a separate agreement with the federal government. This gives the province full control over its economic immigration programs. It also conducted a selection round this past week aimed at qualified candidates under its independent immigration streams.
Each province’s program is designed with unique criteria to target individuals most likely to succeed in their specific economies. These include opportunities for international graduates, skilled tradespeople, and those willing to settle in rural areas. Candidates receiving a provincial nomination significantly increase their chances of securing permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
With Canada continuing to rely on immigration to fill workforce gaps, these latest draws demonstrate the provinces’ ongoing commitment to attracting top global talent with the skills and potential to grow local communities.
Maple News will continue tracking updates from across Canada’s provinces to bring you the most current insights on immigration opportunities.