Your Guide to BC and Alberta PNP Invitations and Processing Updates
Explore the latest PNP updates from British Columbia and Alberta, including ITAs, eligibility criteria, processing times, and new work permit policies for 2024.
Gurmeet Sharma
British Columbia and Alberta have recently issued invitations to apply for provincial nominations under their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). Additionally, Alberta has provided updates on processing times for its immigration programs. Below is a detailed breakdown of the updates.
British Columbia PNP Invitations
Recent Invitations
On November 13, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) issued a total of 25 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) across two separate draws:
General Draw
This draw issued 10 ITAs across multiple streams:
| Stream | Minimum Score |
|---|---|
| Skilled Worker | 143 |
| Skilled Worker – Express Entry (EEBC) | 143 |
| International Graduate | 143 |
| International Graduate – EEBC | 143 |
| Entry-Level & Semi-Skilled | 121 |
Category-Based Draw
This draw focused on specific occupations and issued 15 ITAs:
| Category | ITAs Issued | Minimum Score |
|---|---|---|
| Childcare | 5 | 102 |
| Construction | 4 | 105 |
| Healthcare | 5 | 113 |
| Veterinary Care | <5 | 80 |
Application Pathways
Candidates may apply through the base PNP or link their applications to their Express Entry profile via the Express Entry BC (EEBC) option. EEBC provides faster processing times for applications to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) after receiving provincial nomination.
Alberta PNP Invitations
Recent Draws
Between October 15 and November 7, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) conducted four draws:
| Draw Type | Date | ITAs Issued | Minimum Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta Opportunity Stream | November 7 | 187 | 50 |
| Dedicated Healthcare Pathway (Non-EE) | November 4 | 33 | 44 |
| Dedicated Healthcare Pathway (EE) | November 4 | 65 | 51 |
| Tourism and Hospitality Stream | October 15 | 302 | 70 |
Eligibility Criteria by Stream
| Stream | Key Requirements |
|---|---|
| Alberta Opportunity Stream | CLB 5+, valid work permit, 12+ months of work experience, full-time Alberta job offer in an in-demand trade. |
| Dedicated Healthcare Pathway | CLB 5+, job offer, authorized to practice regulated occupation. |
| Tourism and Hospitality Stream | CLB 4+, LMIA-based work permit, full-time job offer, 6+ months of Alberta experience. |
Alberta Processing Time Updates
As of November 7, Alberta has provided the following updates:
| Stream | Applications in Queue | 2024 Nominations Issued | Nomination Spaces Remaining |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alberta Opportunity Stream | 1,401 | 5,065 | 199 |
| Rural Renewal Stream | 1,407 | 1,757 | 73 |
| Tourism and Hospitality Stream | 129 | 399 | 201 |
| Dedicated Healthcare Pathway | 19 | 79 | 31 |
| Accelerated Tech Pathway (EE) | 510 | 976 | 0 |
Temporary Work Permit Policy
IRCC introduced a temporary public policy allowing PNP candidates to apply for open work permits, with support from their PNP program. This policy is active until December 31, 2024, unless otherwise revoked.
About the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
The PNP enables provinces and territories to nominate foreign nationals for permanent residency. All provinces and territories, except Quebec and Nunavut, participate in this program. Quebec operates independently, managing its own immigration programs.
For candidates nominated through PNP, the next step is to apply for permanent residency through the federal government, streamlining their pathway to settling in Canada.
These updates highlight the opportunities and pathways available for immigration to British Columbia and Alberta. Stay informed about eligibility requirements and processing timelines to maximize your chances of success.
