Provincial Immigration Updates: British Columbia and Manitoba

This week brought significant updates in provincial immigration programs across Canada. British Columbia issued invitations to apply (ITAs) to skilled candidates, while Manitoba announced the end of its open work permit policy for certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. Here’s everything you need to know.

British Columbia: Invitations Under Two Immigration Pathways

On December 10, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) held two separate draws targeting skilled workers and candidates in specific sectors.

General Draw
The general draw invited candidates under the following streams:

Skilled Worker (including Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) option)

Entry Level & Semi-Skilled

Results:

·         Skilled Worker: Minimum score of 148, 6 ITAs issued

·         EEBC option: Minimum score of 148

·         Entry Level & Semi-Skilled: Minimum score of 121

Sector-Specific Draw
The second draw focused on candidates with professional experience in priority sectors such as childcare, construction, healthcare, and veterinary care.

Results:

·         Childcare: Minimum score of 101, <5 ITAs issued

·         Construction: Minimum score of 112, <5 ITAs issued

·         Healthcare: Minimum score of 121, <5 ITAs issued

·         Veterinary Care: Minimum score of 80, <5 ITAs issued

The inclusion of Express Entry-aligned streams (enhanced streams) provides candidates the opportunity to earn an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points and fast-track their pathway to permanent residency.

Manitoba: End of the Temporary Open Work Permit Policy

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) announced on December 6 that it will discontinue its “Temporary Public Policy for Work Permits Aimed at Prospective PNP Candidates” by the end of December.

1. What Was This Policy?
   Introduced in August 2024, the policy allowed PNP candidates in Manitoba’s Expression of Interest (EOI) pool or application inventory to request a support letter. This letter enabled eligible candidates to apply for an open work permit (OWP) with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
   
   
2. Key Dates to Remember

• Application Deadline for Support Letters:
  Candidates must submit their applications online before 11:59 PM CST on December 18, 2024 (12:59 AM EST on December 19). After this, no new applications will be accepted.
• IRCC Deadline for OWP Applications:
  IRCC will continue to accept OWP applications under this policy until December 31, 2024.
  
  

3. Next Steps for Candidates
   Eligible individuals should complete the online submission form before the deadline to secure their support letters. After December 19, the online submission portal will close.
   
   

What Do These Updates Mean for Immigrants?

For aspiring immigrants in British Columbia, the recent draws highlight opportunities for skilled workers to enter Canada’s workforce, especially in priority sectors. Candidates connected to Express Entry benefit from an enhanced pathway to permanent residency, ensuring faster processing times.

For Manitoba, the end of the open work permit policy means prospective PNP candidates must act quickly to secure support letters before the deadlines. This policy change emphasizes the importance of staying updated on shifting immigration rules to avoid missed opportunities.

Need Guidance on Provincial Nominee Programs?

Understanding provincial immigration policies can be challenging. If you’re planning to apply to a PNP or need assistance navigating deadlines and requirements, consult with an immigration expert to explore your options.

Stay informed and take the right steps toward your Canadian immigration goals!