The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program is run by the province of British Columbia, in western Canada. It aims to target skilled foreign workers and entrepreneurs who can contribute towards the labour market and economy of the state, who want to become permanent residents of the province.
There are two pathways through which foreign nationals can apply for the program.
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- This pathway is targeted towards skilled and semi-skilled workers. The applicants are expected to go through a points based invitation system based on various parameters. Applications can be made online or through paper-based modes. There are several categories for this pathway:
Skilled Workers: Skilled workers who are experienced in their occupation and have a job offer from an employer in the province can apply through this pathway.Healthcare Professional: Individuals with relevant medical and healthcare experience such as doctors, nurses and psychiatrics, among other can apply here.
International Graduates: Students who have completed their graduation from an eligible Canadian institution and have a job offer from an employer in British Columbia can apply through this category.
International Post Graduates: Post graduates from universities in British Columbia in natural, applied or health sciences can apply through this method, without a job offer.
Entry level and semi-skilled workers: Eligible workers in certain provisions who have worked in British Columbia temporarily can apply for permanent residence through this method
This pathway enables skilled workers to immigrate to British Columbia in a fast-tracked manner through an online application process. Applicants are required to qualify for the federal economic immigration program and uses a point based ranking system, similar to the Canadian government express entry program.
Candidates do not need work experience in British Columbia but may need prior relevant work experience and must satisfy other eligibility criteria.
This is a unique pathway for budding entrepreneurs who want to start and manage a business in the province. The invitation is based on a points based system for applicants who have the required funds and investment for their residence and business.
There is also an Entrepreneur Regional Pilot for communities in British Columbia participating in the program.