New Immigration Developments in BC and Manitoba You Need to Know!
Explore the latest updates on British Columbia PNP draws targeting skilled workers and priority sectors, plus Manitoba's changes to open work permit policies
Gurmeet Sharma
Stay informed on the latest developments in British Columbia and Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Here's a clear breakdown of the updates:
British Columbia: More Invitations Issued
General Draws Overview
On December 10, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) conducted two draws targeting skilled immigration pathways:
-
General Draw:
- Streams Included:
- Skilled Worker (including the Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) option)
- Entry Level & Semi-Skilled
- Results:
- Total Invitations Issued: 6
- Minimum Scores by Stream:
- Skilled Worker: 148
- Skilled Worker (EEBC): 148
- Entry Level & Semi-Skilled: 121
- Streams Included:
-
Targeted Draw:
Focused on candidates with expertise in key sectors of British Columbia's economy.- Sectors and Results:
| Stream | Priority Sector | Minimum Score | ITAs Issued |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker (EEBC option) | Childcare | 101 | <5 |
| Skilled Worker (EEBC option) | Construction | 112 | <5 |
| Skilled Worker (EEBC option) | Healthcare | 121 | <5 |
| Skilled Worker (EEBC option) | Veterinary Care | 80 | <5 |
The inclusion of sector-specific draws reflects British Columbia’s focus on addressing critical labor shortages.
Manitoba: Temporary Policy Changes
The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) announced the termination of a temporary policy facilitating open work permits (OWPs) for specific candidates.
Policy Overview
- Introduced: August 2024
- Purpose: Allowed eligible PNP candidates in the Expression of Interest (EOI) pool or application inventory to obtain support letters for OWPs, enabling work opportunities while awaiting permanent residency.
Key Dates to Note
- Application Deadline for Support Letters:
- Submissions close at 11:59 PM CST on December 18, 2024.
- IRCC OWP Applications:
- IRCC will accept applications under this policy until December 31, 2024.
Eligible candidates should complete their online submission forms promptly before the cut-off date.
Summary
British Columbia continues to expand its candidate pool by issuing invitations through both general and targeted draws, emphasizing critical sectors such as childcare, construction, healthcare, and veterinary services. Meanwhile, Manitoba is set to conclude its temporary public policy for open work permits, urging eligible applicants to act quickly.
Stay updated for further announcements as provincial immigration programs continue to evolve.
