The BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) is designed to support British Columbia’s economic growth by addressing labour market needs through timely and targeted immigration. The program focuses on attracting skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs who can contribute to the province’s economy. Successful applicants may receive a provincial nomination, helping them move closer to permanent residence in Canada.
The program allows individuals to apply under specific immigration streams based on their skills, work experience, and employment opportunities in British Columbia. To be eligible, applicants must secure a valid job offer from a BC employer and meet the criteria of the chosen stream.
BC PNP applications are processed in alignment with provincial labour market priorities and industry demands. The program works closely with employers and industry stakeholders to ensure that selected candidates meet current workforce requirements.
Certain BC PNP streams allow applicants to apply for permanent residence without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Eligible applicants may also apply for a work permit or extend their existing work permit, allowing them to live and work in British Columbia while their permanent residence application is being processed. Support letters may be issued to facilitate continued employment during this period.
Role of IRCC
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is responsible for processing permanent residence applications submitted through the BC PNP. IRCC also oversees policy direction and program operations at the federal level.
BC PNP Skills Immigration
The BC PNP Skills Immigration category is for skilled workers and international graduates who have the qualifications, experience, and job offers needed by British Columbia employers.
As of November 16, 2023, eligibility for most streams requires a full-time job offer in a skilled occupation located within the Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD). For job offers outside the MVRD, different eligibility requirements may apply.
BC PNP recognizes two primary occupational classifications:
