British Columbia and Alberta Invite Candidates in New Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws

This week, British Columbia (BC) and Alberta extended invitations to candidates through their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These programs aim to attract skilled professionals and students who can contribute to the provinces’ economies and communities.

Here’s a summary of the latest draws and eligibility details for each province.

Provincial Nominee Programs: A Brief Overview

The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), launched in 1998, helps distribute immigration benefits across Canada. Except for Quebec and Nunavut, all provinces and territories have their own PNPs.

• Quebec operates its own immigration system through an agreement with the federal government.
• PNP Criteria: Candidates are assessed based on professional experience, education, and employment-related factors.
  
  

British Columbia PNP Draw (December 3, 2024)

BC held a draw targeting specific sectors under the Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams, including Express Entry BC (EEBC).

Key Highlights:

• Invitations Issued: At least 9.
• Targeted Sectors and Minimum Scores:

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) Draws

Alberta conducted two draws recently under the Alberta Opportunity Stream:

Draw 1: November 22, 2024

This draw targeted candidates with full-time job offers in Alberta’s healthcare sector.

• Invitations Issued: 80.
• Minimum Score Required: 40.
  
  

Eligibility Criteria:

• A valid work permit.
• Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or NCLC level 5 or higher.
• At least 12 months of work experience.
• A full-time job offer in Alberta in a moderately or high-demand healthcare occupation (excluding occupations in the Dedicated Healthcare Pathways).
• Compliance with licensing requirements for regulated occupations.
  
  

Draw 2: November 27, 2024

This larger draw targeted individuals with Alberta education and job offers.

• Invitations Issued: 447.
• Minimum Score Required: 71.
  
  

Eligibility Criteria:

• A valid Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) with an expiry date on or after February 28, 2025.
• CLB or NCLC level 4 or higher.
• At least 6 months of work experience in Alberta.
• A job offer in Alberta in an eligible occupation under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) broad categories:
• 1 - Business, Finance, and Administration Occupations.
• 6 - Sales and Service Occupations.
  
  

Why These Draws Matter

PNPs like those in BC and Alberta provide unique opportunities for candidates to achieve permanent residency while addressing local labor market needs.

• BC’s Focus: Prioritizes in-demand sectors such as childcare, healthcare, and technology.
• Alberta’s Focus: Emphasizes opportunities for Alberta-educated individuals and professionals in healthcare and business-related fields.

These draws highlight the provinces’ commitment to welcoming skilled professionals and fostering economic growth.