B.C. PNP invites tech workers and entrepreneurs in new draw

B.C. invited immigration candidates to apply for a provincial nomination for permanent residence on December 1, 2020.

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) issued 68 invitations through the Express Entry BC (EEBC) and Skills Immigration streams.

Candidates were invited under the Skilled Worker, and International Graduate subcategories through the BC PNP Tech Pilot. Invited candidates need to have job offers in an eligible tech occupation in order to receive the nomination.

The minimum required score for successful candidates was 80 in all categories.

The BC PNP also issued 11 invitations through its Entrepreneur Immigration stream. The minimum score requirement for this draw was 121.

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B.C. holds draws through two Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) categories and streams on a weekly basis.

To apply for the Skills Immigration or Express Entry BC categories candidates must first create a profile through the BC PNP’s online portal and register under its Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS).

Applicants are evaluated and issued a score based on factors such as level of education, work experience, proficiency in English and location of employment.

If an applicant is approved, they can then use their provincial nomination to apply for permanent residence with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under the PNP.

Express Entry candidates who receive a nomination from British Columbia will be given an additional 600 points toward their Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

The BC PNP is one of Canada’s PNPs. Through these programs, provinces can nominate newcomers who can settle into the local labour market.

The BC PNP has conducted 25 tech draws since January, with minimum scores dropping from 90 to 80 points that have remained constant for several months.

It should be noted that BC continues to invite workers and graduates in non-tech occupations on a regular basis as well.

British Columbia's high-growth technology sector has grown even faster in recent years due to the influx of international talent leaving U.S. technology centers such as Silicon Valley. This has been attributed, in part, to strict immigration and economic policies that have led to a period of uncertainty in the U.S. technology sector.

In addition to its reputation for innovation and technological talent, British Columbia's mild climate and proximity to U.S. markets are also factors that attract companies and workers.

Find out if you’re eligible for Canadian immigration