British Columbia Announces Latest 2024 PNP Draw

On July 23, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) held its latest draw, issuing over 108 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency (PR). This round included both general and targeted invitations, reflecting a recent trend where B.C. has started issuing fewer invitations but raising the cutoff scores.

Despite the reduction in the number of invitations, B.C. continues its commitment to regular weekly draws, maintaining consistency in its immigration processes. In this draw, 35 invitations were issued under the general category, targeting profiles that met the minimum score eligibility criteria. The cutoff score for this general draw remained unchanged from the previous round.

Additionally, B.C. sent out 37 invitations to candidates with experience as early childhood educators or assistants, classified under NOC 42202. Another 19 invitations were issued to individuals with experience in healthcare-related occupations, highlighting the province's ongoing need for skilled healthcare workers.

Moreover, a new category introduced in late 2023 saw 17 invitations sent to candidates with experience in 25 construction-related occupations. This indicates B.C.’s focus on addressing labor shortages in the construction sector through targeted draws.

Here are the details of the latest BC PNP draw held on July 23:

• General Draw:
  • Skilled Worker: Minimum score of 134, 35 invitations.
  • Skilled Worker (Express Entry BC option): Minimum score of 134.
  • International Graduate: Minimum score of 134.
  • International Graduate (Express Entry BC option): Minimum score of 134.
  • Entry Level & Semi-Skilled: Minimum score of 110.
• Targeted Draws:
  • Childcare (Early childhood educators and assistants, NOC 42202): Skilled Worker, International Graduate (including Express Entry BC option), minimum score of 91, 37 invitations.
  • Construction Occupations: Minimum score of 92, 17 invitations.
  • Healthcare Occupations: Minimum score of 104, 19 invitations.
  • Veterinary Care: Minimum score of 80, fewer than 5 invitations.

B.C.’s decision to reduce the number of invitations while raising cutoff scores could be seen as a strategic move to ensure the quality and suitability of candidates for the province's labor market needs. By focusing on specific occupations such as early childhood education, healthcare, and construction, B.C. aims to fill critical gaps in these sectors, supporting its economic growth and development.

This approach not only aligns with B.C.’s economic priorities but also provides a clear pathway for skilled workers in high-demand occupations to secure permanent residency in the province. As B.C. continues to adapt its immigration strategies, it remains a desirable destination for skilled immigrants seeking opportunities in Canada.