Canadian provinces British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Prince Edward Island released the latest provincial immigration results this week. Provinces and territories across Canada, excluding Quebec and Nunavut, have their own PNPs to facilitate immigration for potential candidates. Applicants who intend to migrate to Canada can submit applications through these programs. Those who are granted provincial nomination may enjoy a benefit in their quest for permanent residency.
A steady increase in the number of permanent residents has been a hallmark of the PNP for more than two decades, since its establishment in 1998. Efforts to promote economic development outside urban areas are widely acknowledged as efficient, with both the federal and provincial governments supporting the PNP.
Two Express Entry draws were held by IRCC this month, the latest being held this week and inviting only Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates to apply. Provincial recruitment programs enable provinces to find candidates with suitable qualifications and abilities. Thereby addressing local labor shortages and promoting economic growth.
Latest provincial immigration results – February 11 – February 17
British Columbia
More than 232 candidates received invitations for a provincial nomination from British Columbia on February 14th. Out of which 183 candidates were specifically targeted for tech-related occupations. Candidates who fit the descriptions of qualified professionals and international grads received these invitations. Also, it comprised people who had registered for the Fast Entry system. As well as it includes those who are registered with the Express Entry program. To qualify, all invitees had to have a minimum SIRS score of 83.
British Columbia’s immigration skills program has five streams, each designed for individuals with different skills and experience levels. Express Entry BC is available in four of these streams. While the fifth is designed for individuals with no work experience in an eligible NOC. To rank applicants, the province employs the SIRS. It is similar to the CRS used for the federal Express Entry program but is only applicable to the British Columbia PNP.
Candidates from the following occupations were also invited to apply:
- 29 early childhood instructors and helpers had to receive a minimum of 60 points to be eligible.
- At least 20 healthcare workers have been deemed eligible, each receiving a minimum 60-point score in one of the three categories: skilled workers, international graduates, and express entry.
- Jobs with other priorities require a minimum of 60 points.
Saskatchewan
As part of its first draw of the year, the SNIP – (Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program) was conducted on February 16, 2023. It is estimated that 468 candidates applied for permanent residency in Saskatchewan. As a special measure in response to the Ukrainian crisis, one candidate from Ukraine was invited in addition to the 177 Express Entry candidates selected from the 243 Occupations-In-Demand candidates. In both streams, 84 was the at least score required.
Prince Edward Island
On February 16, 222 applicants were given invitations to submit applications for permanent residence under the PEI PNP’s Express Entry and Labor streams. Six candidates were also invited to apply for a Business Work Permit Entrepreneurship program. They had to score at least 70 points. Express Entry applicants who want to be taken into account for nomination by the PEI PNP must submit a separate EOI profile. A score is assigned to each EOI profile by the PEI PNP based on its points grid. Similar to Express Entry’s CRS, the candidates with the highest scores are chosen through monthly draws for a provincial nomination.
