Two provinces in Canada have recently issued invitations for candidates to apply for nominations through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
The PNP was initially launched in Manitoba in 1998 to promote the economic advantages of immigration in regions of Canada that are often overlooked by newcomers. Today, all provinces and territories, except Quebec and Nunavut, have their own PNPs.
Through this program, provincial governments can select economic immigration candidates who are most likely to thrive in the local job market. Each province is allocated a specific number of nominations according to the federal Immigration Levels Plan. The 2025 plan, released on October 24, indicates a significant reduction in the total number of PNP nominations available next year, decreasing from 110,000 in 2024 to 55,000.
A provincial nomination greatly enhances a candidate’s application for permanent residency, especially for those in the Express Entry system, as it adds an additional 600 points to their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This makes the PNP one of the most sought-after pathways for newcomers seeking permanent residence in Canada.
Provincial Immigration Results from October 26 to November 1
British Columbia
On October 30, British Columbia issued over 83 invitations for nominations through the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP).
The province conducted a general draw, inviting 31 candidates from the Skilled Worker, International Graduate, and Entry Level and Semi-Skilled streams, all requiring a minimum score of 134, with Entry Level and Semi-Skilled candidates needing at least 117.
In addition, B.C. held four targeted draws for specific occupations within the Skilled Worker and International Graduate streams:
- Childcare: 20 candidates with a minimum score of 90
- Construction: 20 candidates with a minimum score of 96
- Healthcare: 12 candidates with a minimum score of 104
- Veterinary: fewer than five candidates with a minimum score of 80
Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island’s PNP invited 89 candidates through its Labour and Express Entry categories, prioritizing individuals currently working in the province’s healthcare, construction, and manufacturing sectors.
Additionally, two candidates from the Business Work Permit Entrepreneur category were invited, both of whom had a minimum score of 92.
In the last 12 months, PEI has issued a total of 1,237 invitations to PNP candidates, with 98% of those going to individuals in the Labour and Express Entry streams.
