The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) held two draws on June 22nd, 2021, inviting 395 qualifying candidates to apply for nomination. Following a pattern seen since February, BCPNP has targeted NOC codes 0621 and 0631 in a separate draw, with a higher minimum SIRS score.
The Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS) points has decreased from the last non-tech rounds of invitations, which had previously seen the lowest targeted draw scores this year.
First BCPNP draw results: 54 invitations
This draw targeted NOC codes 0621 and 0631 only. BCPNP has continued to target these NOC codes separately and more competitively, initially excluding them due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on B.C. businesses. As labour market needs evolve, BC may adjust program requirements as needed.
Express Entry BC categories (EEBC) minimum SIRS score:
- Skilled Worker: 109
- International Graduate: 109
BC Skills Immigration categories minimum SIRS score:
- Skilled Worker: 109
- International Graduate: 109
Second BCPNP draw results: 341 invitations
The subsequent BCPNP draw held on June 22nd targeted all other NOC codes and invited some of the lowest scoring candidates in a non-tech draw this year.
Express Entry BC categories (EEBC) minimum SIRS score:
- Skilled Worker: 92
- International Graduate: 85
BC Skills Immigration categories minimum SIRS score:
- Skilled Worker: 92
- International Graduate: 85
- Entry level and semi-skilled: 75
How does BCPNP work?
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) divides their skilled worker immigration programs into two main streams: Express Entry and Skills Immigration. Each stream has additional immigration pathways. The programs for Skills Immigration and Express Entry are essentially the same; however, the Express Entry pathway offers an accelerated option for candidates who are eligible to submit an Express Entry profile.
Candidates that meet the requirements for BC’s Skilled Worker, International Graduate, or Entry Level and Semi-Skilled Worker pathways can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the province. Once a candidate creates an EOI profile, they are ranked by the province’s Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS), and given a “SIRS” score. The highest ranking candidates will receive an invitation from BC to apply for nomination. After receiving an invitation, candidates have 30 days to prepare and submit their online application to the province. According to BC’s 2020 statistics, about 77% of all Skills Immigration applications received by BCPNP resulted in nomination.
After approximately 2-3 months, a decision will be made on a candidate’s application. Should a nomination be received, a candidate will be eligible to submit an application to the federal government for Permanent Residence. Candidates eligible under BC’s Express Entry stream will be eligible for an accelerated 6 months processing of their application. Those who have submitted under BC’s Skills Immigration will be invited to submit a non-Express Entry application for permanent residence.
Lauren Boorman
