It’s time to explore the exciting opportunities that emerged with the first BC PNP Skill Immigration Draw of May 2023. This crucial event sheds light on the categories, eligibility, and pathways to permanent residency for potential applicants, offering a new chance for skilled professionals to contribute to British Columbia’s growth and success.

British Columbia’s Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) plays a pivotal role in attracting skilled workers to the province, addressing labor shortages, and driving economic growth. In May 2023, the BC PNP conducted its first skill immigration draw, inviting candidates from various categories to apply for a provincial nomination. This blog will delve into the details of the draw, focusing on the invited categories and the pathway to permanent residency for successful applicants.

BC PNP SKILL IMMIGRATION DRAW OF MAY 2023-Who Was Invited?

In May 2023, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) conducted a skill immigration draw, issuing invitations to apply (ITAs) to 176 candidates across two primary categories. This article provides a detailed breakdown of the invitations and minimum scores required for each subcategory.

Category 1: General Draw

In the general draw, a total of 133 candidates received ITAs. The distribution of invitations and minimum scores for each subcategory were as follows:

• Skilled Workers: a minimum score of 104 points( including the EEBC option)
• International Graduates: a minimum score of 107 points (including the EEBC option)
• Entry Level and Semi-Skilled Workers: a minimum score of 85 points.

Category 2: Priority Occupations

In the priority occupations category, 43 candidates were issued ITAs. The distribution of invitations and minimum scores for each subcategory were as follows:

• Childcare Skilled Workers and International Graduates (including EEBC option): 22 invitations were extended to candidates in this subcategory, with a minimum score requirement of 60 points. (NOC 42202)
• Healthcare Skilled Workers and International Graduates (including EEBC option): 16 candidates from the healthcare sector received invitations, with a minimum score threshold of 60 points.
• Other Priority Occupations Skilled Workers and International Graduates(NOCs 31103, 32104): This subcategory saw 5 invitations issued, with candidates needing a minimum score of 60 points to qualify.

This overview of the May 2023 BC PNP skill immigration draw highlights the distribution of ITAs and the minimum scores required for each subcategory. It showcases the province’s commitment to attracting skilled professionals across various sectors to support its economy and address labor shortages.

Applying for Permanent Residency Through BC PNP

Successful applicants who receive a provincial nomination from British Columbia can subsequently apply for permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The BC PNP nomination significantly increases the candidate’s chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency during the federal Express Entry draw.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on applying for permanent residency through the BC PNP:

• Register with the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS): Submit an online profile, and you will receive a score based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency.
• Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If your score is among the highest in your category, you will receive an ITA for a provincial nomination during a BC PNP draw.
• Submit your application for a provincial nomination: After receiving the ITA, submit a complete application within the specified timeframe.
• Receive your provincial nomination: If your application is successful, you will receive a nomination from the BC PNP.

Apply for permanent residency through IRCC:- With the provincial nomination, submit your application for permanent residency to IRCC within six months.

Conclusion

The first British Columbia PNP skill immigration draw of May 2023  exemplifies British Columbia’s commitment to attracting skilled professionals and international graduates to support its economy. By understanding the invited categories and the pathway to permanent residency through the BC PNP, potential applicants can seize this opportunity and contribute to the province’s growth and success.