
British Columbia Expands Invitations, Manitoba Ends Open Work Permit Policy
Provincial Immigration Updates: British Columbia Expands Invitations, Manitoba Ends Open Work Permit Policy
British Columbia: Increased Invitations for Skilled Workers
On December 10, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) conducted two distinct draws under its Skills Immigration pathways. These draws targeted candidates across specific streams, including those aligned with Canada’s federal Express Entry system. Let’s explore the details:
General Draw:
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Streams: Skilled Worker (including Express Entry British Columbia (EEBC) option) and Entry Level & Semi-Skilled.
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ITAs Issued: Six invitations.
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Minimum Scores:
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Skilled Worker: 148
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Skilled Worker EEBC option: 148
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Entry Level & Semi-Skilled: 121
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Targeted Draw:
This draw focused on priority sectors, underscoring the province’s commitment to addressing labor market needs. Invitations were issued under the Skilled Worker stream (including the EEBC option) with specific minimum scores for different sectors:
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Childcare: 101 (fewer than five ITAs issued)
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Construction: 112 (fewer than five ITAs issued)
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Healthcare: 121 (fewer than five ITAs issued)
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Veterinary Care: 80 (fewer than five ITAs issued)
Key Takeaway for Applicants:
For candidates eyeing British Columbia, aligning your profile with the province’s in-demand sectors can significantly boost your chances of receiving an ITA. It’s crucial to research the targeted industries and ensure your application highlights relevant experience and skills.
Manitoba: End of Open Work Permit Support Policy
The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) recently announced the conclusion of its temporary public policy for open work permits. Instituted in August 2024, this policy allowed PNP candidates to obtain support letters for open work permit (OWP) applications. Here are the details:
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Policy Closure: The MPNP will stop accepting applications under this policy at 11:59 PM CST on December 18, 2024 (12:59 AM EST, December 19).
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Final Submission Deadline: Eligible candidates must submit their applications via the online form before this deadline.
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IRCC Deadline: Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will continue processing OWP applications under this policy until December 31, 2024.
What Does This Mean for Candidates?
The cessation of this policy marks a pivotal shift. Previously, candidates in Manitoba’s Express of Interest (EOI) pool could leverage support letters to apply for open work permits, providing flexibility in employment opportunities. With this option ending, candidates should strategize to secure employer-specific work permits or explore other pathways.
Tips and Insights for PNP Applicants
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Understand Provincial Needs: Each province prioritizes specific sectors to address skill shortages. Tailor your profile to meet these demands.
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Leverage Enhanced PNP Streams: Streams linked to the federal Express Entry system, such as British Columbia’s EEBC option, offer quicker pathways to permanent residency. Ensure your Express Entry profile is active and competitive.
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Act Promptly: For Manitoba candidates, the window to benefit from the open work permit support policy is closing rapidly. Submit your application before the December 18 deadline to avoid missing this opportunity.
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Stay Informed: Provincial policies and priorities can change frequently. Regularly check PNP updates and seek professional guidance to navigate these shifts effectively.
The recent updates from British Columbia and Manitoba highlight the dynamic nature of Canada’s immigration landscape. As an RCIC, my advice is to remain proactive and informed. Whether you’re aiming to secure a nomination through targeted draws or adapting to policy changes, strategic planning is essential for success.
For personalized guidance and support, consult an RCIC to help you craft a robust immigration strategy tailored to your goals. With the right approach, you can navigate the complexities of Canada’s PNP programs and achieve your dreams of settling in this vibrant country.
The information provided in this article is based on the latest updates from British Columbia and Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) as of December 2024. This content is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. For personalized assistance, please consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or an authorized immigration professional.