British Columbia
Overview
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) is administered by the government of British Columbia to select immigration candidates for nomination to the Canadian government for permanent residency in the province, thereby contributing to economic growth.
The BCPNP offers 10 different immigration streams, providing a diverse range of options for skilled workers, international graduates in Canada, and post-graduates in British Columbia. These streams include Express Entry BC, Skills Immigration, and an entrepreneur category.
How It Works
The BC-PNP is distinguished by its two broad streams for workers and graduates: Express Entry BC and Skills Immigration, along with an additional stream for entrepreneurs.
Within these streams, various categories exist. Some align with Canada’s federal Express Entry system, providing successful applicants with an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points and an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence. Others operate under the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS), where candidates register profiles and are invited to apply based on periodic draws and their score.
While some categories require a job offer from a BC employer, others do not. Additionally, the Tech Pilot program targets IT and technology workers for expedited processing, with specific in-demand occupations identified for eligibility.
In-Demand NOC Occupations Lists
The BC-PNP includes the BC Tech Pilot stream, which accelerates processing for IT and technology skilled workers. However, eligibility requires a job offer in one of the following in-demand occupations:
Telecommunication carriers managers
Computer and information systems managers
Managers in publishing, motion pictures, broadcasting, and performing arts
Civil engineers
Mechanical engineers
Electrical and electronics engineers
Chemical engineers
Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers)
Information systems analysts and consultants
Database analysts and data administrators
Software engineers and designers
Computer programmers and interactive media developers
Web designers and developers
Biological technologists and technicians
Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians
Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment)
Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics
Computer network technicians
User support technicians
Information systems testing technicians
Authors and writers
Editors
Translators, terminologists, and interpreters
Broadcast technicians
Audio and video recording technicians
Other technical and coordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting, and the performing arts
Support occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting, photography, and the performing arts
Graphic designers and illustrators
Technical sales specialists - wholesale trade
Last updated