British Columbia invites applicants in latest PNP draw

British Columbia invited a small group of entrepreneurs to apply for provincial nomination through its latest immigration draw. This draw took place under the province’s Entrepreneur Immigration Base Stream and is the third such draw of 2025.

On April 15, five candidates got invitations to apply for nomination. The person with the lowest score among them had 115 points. This score is based on several factors including net worth, experience, business plan, and language ability.

This draw focuses on entrepreneurs who can start or buy a business in B.C. and help grow the local economy. The province looks for business owners who are ready to invest and actively manage their companies in British Columbia.

To apply for this stream, candidates must meet several requirements. They need a minimum score of 115 points and a net worth of at least $600,000. They must be able to speak English or French at a level equal to CLB 4 or higher. They also need to invest at least $200,000 of their own money into the business.

Applicants must either own at least one-third of the business or make an equity investment of $1 million. In terms of experience, they need one of the following: three years as a business owner-manager, four years as a senior business manager, or a mix of one year in business ownership and two years in senior management.

Education is also important. Applicants must have at least a two-year post-secondary diploma or equivalent. They also need to create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in B.C.

In addition to the Base Stream, B.C. also has a regional entrepreneur stream. This is for people who want to start businesses in smaller towns and communities. It has lower financial requirements but needs the candidate to visit the community and get a letter of support from local officials.

The province has made several big changes to its immigration program this year. Many streams have been closed, and general draws are on pause. The number of new applications B.C. will accept in 2025 is also limited.

For now, the province is focusing on inviting people who bring high economic value. These include front-line healthcare workers, skilled workers, and entrepreneurs who can help the economy grow.

B.C.’s immigration program remains one of the most active in Canada. However, the new restrictions and targeted draws show that the province is now being more selective. It wants to choose only those who will bring long-term value to the local job market and communities.