Ontario and BC Announce Nominees for Provincial Nominee Program

This week, both Ontario and British Columbia selected candidates for their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) as part of their immigration initiatives. These selections were based on candidates' work experience, employment status, and language skills.

Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP)

On September 5, Ontario conducted a draw for the French-speaking skilled Worker stream. This draw resulted in 96 Notifications of Interest (NOIs) being issued to candidates with Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores ranging from 290 to 393. This stream targets French-speaking skilled workers who wish to settle in Ontario. 

To qualify, candidates must be part of the federal Express Entry pool under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), meet specific work experience and language requirements, hold a recognized degree, plan to live in Ontario, and show they have enough funds for settlement. Candidates must receive an NOI from Ontario before they can apply for permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP)

On September 4, British Columbia held two separate draws for its PNP:

1. The first draw was a general selection from the Skilled Worker, International Graduates, and Entry Level & Semi-Skilled streams. In this draw, 75 invitations were issued. Candidates needed a minimum score of 128, except for those in the Entry Level & Semi-Skilled stream, who required a score of at least 110.
2. The second draw targeted candidates with experience in specific sectors critical to British Columbia's economy. This included the Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams. The details are as follows:
   • 31 candidates with childcare experience needed a minimum score of 83.
   • 33 candidates with childcare experience required a minimum score of 89.
   • 19 candidates with childcare experience needed a score of 99.
   • At least one candidate with childcare experience required a minimum score of 80.

For more information on in-demand positions in British Columbia, interested parties can refer to the provincial listings.

Closure of the Saskatchewan Hard-to-Fill Skills Pilot

Effective August 30, 2024, Saskatchewan has permanently closed the Hard-to-Fill Skills Pilot under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). No new applications or job approval forms will be accepted from this date. However, any applications already submitted with a valid Candidate-Specific Job Approval Letter will continue to be processed. This closure is part of Saskatchewan’s effort to streamline immigration pathways and improve settlement outcomes. 

Other SINP categories remain open, and alternative immigration options are available. The SINP will provide information sessions on alternative pathways on September 6 and 11, 2024. Additional support and details can be obtained through email or SINP’s contact channels.