British Columbia continued its sector-focused immigration strategy on 13 July, issuing at least 343 invitations under the Provincial Nominee Program’s (BCPNP) Skills Immigration stream. The province split the draw between its ‘Care’ priorities—health-care, childcare, veterinary services—and its ‘Build’ priorities covering construction trades. Early Childhood Educators needed just 108 points under the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS), while several health professions cleared at 96. Construction trades saw the largest share of invitations but also the highest minimum SIRS score (97), reflecting fierce competition amid record housing starts and public-sector infrastructure projects tied to the World Cup. For employers, the targeted draw unlocks quicker access to work permits. Once nominated, candidates can obtain a 2-year B.C. work permit support letter, avoiding federal Labour Market Impact Assessments. HR teams should align recruitment with the province’s three-pillar strategy—Care, Build, Innovate—to maximise nomination chances. The province has now run 15 selection rounds in 2026, with 70 percent of nominations flowing to priority sectors. Immigration consultants expect at least one construction-only draw before summer ends, citing a shortfall of 9,000 skilled tradespeople anticipated for Metro Vancouver projects. Companies should also note processing-fee hikes taking effect 1 August: the BCPNP application fee for Skills Immigration rises to CAD 1,650, while the entrepreneur stream climbs to CAD 3,500. Budgets for relocation packages need updating accordingly.
Source: ImmigToronto
