Changes to the BC PNP

In response to the crucial need for more healthcare workers and early childhood educators (ECEs), BC has implemented changes to their Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) to prioritize these occupations, effective March 10, 2022.

Priority Access for Care Occupations

Targeted invitations to apply will give priority access to select occupations in the care economy, specifically registrants whose occupation is on a pre-determined list of in-demand health occupations as well as early childhood educators. The Health Care Professional category has been renamed Health Authority category and is open to all occupations employed by a health authority. Targeted invitations to apply (priority access) replaces the registration points awarded for high demand occupations in the Labour Market Outlook. The total registration points and total points for economic factors have been adjusted accordingly. Periodic general draws will be conducted for other skilled and semi-skilled workers who meet program criteria. Invitations to apply can be based on various factors that support B.C. government priorities. You can find an overview of Strategic Priorities & Initiatives on the updated BC PNP website. 

Entry Level and Semi-Skilled category

Healthcare assistants and dental assistants have been added to the Entry Level and Semi-Skilled category as eligible occupations. The full list of eligible occupations can be found on the updated BC PNP website.

Skilled Worker category

Instead of two years directly related experience, applicants now require two years of skilled experience (NOC Skill Type 0, or Skill Level A or B) under the Skilled Worker category. This matches the requirements under the Express Entry stream of the BC PNP. 

Candidates working in management occupations (NOC Skill Type 0) are no longer eligible under the International Graduates categories and must apply under Skilled Worker categories.

The BC PNP Tech was not changed. 

French language test criteria

The Test de Connaissance du Français (TCF) and the relevant minimum test scores have now been added. Previously, only the Test d'évaluation de français (TEF) test was accepted as proof of French language skills, and IELTS or CELPIP for English. Click here to learn more about language test for immigration to Canada.

Misrepresentation

The new version of the BC PNP Skills Immigration Program Guide also includes a definition for "misrepresentation". The BC PNP may refuse an application if the applicant or the employer supporting the application has been found to have made a misrepresentation in a previous BC PNP application within the last 2 years. 

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