British Columbia and Ontario Boost Immigration Nominations for Skilled Workers

British Columbia and Ontario are stepping up their efforts to attract skilled workers by issuing more nominations through their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). This initiative is aimed at meeting the growing demands of the labour market in these provinces. Candidates who possess the right mix of professional experience and language skills in either English or French have been invited to apply.

In the recent draws held between September 21st and 27th, both provinces targeted individuals who possess in-demand skills that are essential for their economies. It is important to note that each PNP employs its unique scoring system to determine candidates’ eligibility, and these scores cannot be compared across different programs.

British Columbia's PNP Results

On September 24th, British Columbia’s Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) issued invitations to a total of at least 146 candidates. These invitations were part of the Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams, designed to attract professionals in high-demand fields. The cutoff scores varied depending on the specific profession. Here are some details from the latest draw:

• Childcare: 42 candidates invited with a minimum score of 83
• Construction: 22 candidates invited with a minimum score of 89
• Healthcare: 24 candidates invited with a minimum score of 99
• Tech: 57 candidates invited with a minimum score of 117
• Veterinary Care: Fewer than 5 candidates invited with a minimum score of 80

The Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams provide a pathway to permanent residency for recent graduates from Canadian post-secondary institutions. To qualify, applicants must have graduated within the last three years and possess a full-time job offer from a British Columbia employer. The job must align with specific categories within the National Occupation Classification (NOC) system.

Applicants are also required to meet language proficiency standards, have an acceptable wage offer, demonstrate qualifications for the position, and show they can support themselves financially. Additionally, the International Graduate stream offers an Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) option. This enhanced pathway connects with Canada's federal Express Entry system, allowing candidates in the federal pool to receive a provincial nomination, resulting in an extra 600 points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).

Ontario's PNP Results

On September 26th, the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) issued 243 notifications of interest (NOIs) to candidates through its French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream. For this draw, candidates needed a CRS score ranging from 290 to 445 to be considered.

This stream is designed for eligible foreign workers who possess the required skilled work experience, education, and language proficiency in both English and French. To be eligible for nomination, candidates must hold a valid profile in the Express Entry system and receive an NOI from Ontario before applying online for the nomination. As with British Columbia's program, the French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream is also an enhanced stream aligned with the Express Entry system, increasing the chances for successful candidates to secure permanent residency.

Both provinces are demonstrating a strong commitment to welcoming skilled immigrants, recognizing the vital role they play in enhancing the workforce and contributing to local economies.