B.C. PNP issues 216 invitations to immigration candidates

British Columbia held a draw through its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) on February 2, 2021. British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (B.C. PNP) issued 216 invitations to apply (ITAs) for immigration candidates in B.C.

A mere eight (8) invitations were given to candidates in the Entrepreneur subcategory. A total of 208 candidates in the Skilled Worker and International Graduate subcategories were given ITAs for a provincial nomination through the Express Entry B.C. (EEBC) and Skills Immigration categories. The minimum required Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores for candidates varied by category.

The CRS cut-off scores for EEBC subcategories were: Skilled Worker – 104; International Graduate – 100.

The CRS cut-off scores for the Skills Immigration subcategories were: Skilled Worker – 98; International Graduate – 98; and Entry Level and Semi-Skilled – 79.

The 8 invitations issued under the B.C. PNP Entrepreneur Immigration Base Category had a CRS cut-off score of 122.

The provincial government stated that there was an impact of COVID-19 on the draw.

Candidates in the EEBC category needed to already have submitted profile under Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) Express Entry system. Once candidates receive their ITA for a provincial nomination from B.C., successful candidates will earn an additional 600 CRS points. By doing this it almost guarantees that they will receive an ITA for permanent residence under IRCC’s Express Entry system.

The Entrepreneur Immigration Base Category is to welcome established entrepreneurs who either wish to start a business or take over one. Candidates are assessed on criteria such as business experience, net worth, education, business plan, and the amount of investment their plan to make.