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BC | Canada
BC Provincial Nominee Program
British Columbia's PNP offers fast-track pathways for tech workers, healthcare professionals, and skilled workers. With weekly draws for BC PNP Tech and strong links to Express Entry, BC is a top destination for immigrants.
Processing
2-4 months for provincial nomination
Provincial Fee
$1,150 CAD
Streams
6 Available
CRS Boost
+600 Points
Program Overview
About the BC PNP
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) is known for its BC PNP Tech pilot, which offers weekly draws for workers in 29 technology occupations. This makes BC particularly attractive for software developers, IT professionals, and tech entrepreneurs.
BC PNP uses a points-based system called the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). Candidates create a profile and receive a score based on factors like job offer wage, location, work experience, and language ability. Higher-scoring candidates are invited to apply.
Vancouver and Victoria are major destinations, but BC also encourages immigration to smaller communities through regional incentives. The province's diverse economy spans technology, film, healthcare, forestry, and tourism.
In-Demand Occupations
Software Developers and EngineersRegistered NursesIT Project ManagersWeb DevelopersDatabase AnalystsHealthcare Workers
Free Eligibility Assessment
Find out if you qualify for the BC PNP. Our RCIC-licensed consultants will review your profile.
Book ConsultationRCIC License: R515110
Immigration Streams
BC PNP Streams
British Columbia offers 6 immigration streams. Find the one that matches your situation.
Skills Immigration: Skilled Worker
Express Entry LinkedJob Offer Required
For skilled workers with a job offer from a BC employer. Available in both Express Entry and base categories.
Job offer from BC employer
Job in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
At least 2 years related work experience
Meet minimum language requirements
Skills Immigration: Healthcare Professional
Express Entry LinkedJob Offer Required
Priority stream for healthcare workers including physicians, nurses, and allied health professionals.
Job offer from BC public health authority or eligible employer
Qualified in eligible healthcare occupation
Valid professional registration if required
Language requirements vary by occupation
Skills Immigration: International Graduate
Express Entry LinkedJob Offer Required
For recent graduates of Canadian post-secondary institutions with a BC job offer.
Graduated from eligible Canadian institution within 3 years
Job offer from BC employer
Job in NOC TEER 1, 2, or 3
Meet language and wage requirements
Skills Immigration: International Post-Graduate
Express Entry LinkedNo Job Offer
For masters and PhD graduates of BC institutions. No job offer required.
Masters or PhD from eligible BC institution within 3 years
Degree in natural, applied, or health sciences
No job offer required
Intent to live in BC
BC PNP Tech
Express Entry LinkedJob Offer Required
Fast-track for workers in 29 technology occupations. Features weekly draws and priority processing.
Job offer in 1 of 29 eligible tech occupations
Job offer for at least 1 year
Meet Skills Immigration stream requirements
Working or have offer to work in BC
Entry Level and Semi-Skilled
Job Offer Required
For workers in tourism, hospitality, food processing, and long-haul trucking in specific BC regions.
9 months full-time work with BC employer
Job offer from same employer
Eligible occupation in designated category
CLB 4 minimum language proficiency
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
General requirements for BC PNP streams. Specific requirements vary by stream.
Skills Immigration
- Valid job offer from BC employer
- Meet wage requirements for region
- Relevant work experience
- Language proficiency (CLB 4-7)
BC PNP Tech
- Job in 1 of 29 tech occupations
- Minimum 1-year job offer
- Meet base stream requirements
- Weekly draws with priority processing
Post-Graduate
- Masters/PhD from BC institution
- Natural, applied, or health sciences
- Graduated within 3 years
- No job offer required
Draw Information
BC PNP Draws & Invitations
BC PNP Tech conducts weekly invitations for eligible tech workers
Draw Frequency
Weekly draws for Tech, bi-weekly for others
Score Range
Varies by category and draw
Application Fees
Provincial Fee$1,150 CAD
Federal PR Fee$1,365 CAD (PR application)
CRS Boost+600 Points
Provincial nomination adds 600 points to your CRS score, virtually guaranteeing an Express Entry invitation.
Calculate your CRS score with PNP boostFAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the BC PNP
What is BC PNP Tech?
BC PNP Tech is a fast-track immigration pathway for workers in 29 eligible technology occupations. It features weekly draws, priority processing, and the ability to apply with job offers as short as 1 year. Tech workers can qualify through either Express Entry or base BC PNP.
Do I need a job offer for BC PNP?
Most BC PNP streams require a job offer from a BC employer. The exception is the International Post-Graduate stream for masters and PhD graduates of BC institutions in natural, applied, or health sciences.
How does the BC PNP scoring system work?
BC uses the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS). You receive a score based on wage offered, job location, work experience, education, and language. Higher-scoring candidates are invited in draws. Tech occupations and regional employment can boost your score.
Is Vancouver expensive?
Yes, Vancouver has high housing costs compared to other Canadian cities. However, salaries in tech and healthcare are competitive. Many immigrants settle in surrounding areas like Burnaby, Surrey, or Richmond for more affordable options while staying close to Vancouver.
What are the BC PNP processing times?
Provincial processing takes 2 to 4 months. BC PNP Tech applications often receive faster processing. After nomination, Express Entry-linked applications are processed federally in about 6 months. Base applications take 12 to 18 months.
Ready to Apply for BC PNP?
Book a consultation with our RCIC-licensed consultants. We'll assess your eligibility and recommend the best stream for your situation.