British Columbia issues invitations to skilled workers in priority care and construction occupations
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) held a targeted occupation-based draw on July 9, inviting skilled workers to apply for provincial nomination. The draw took effect immediately, as part of the province's efforts to attract highly skilled talent and fill labour market gaps. The invitations were issued as part of the eighth Skills Immigration (SI) draw held by the province in 2026.
This latest draw marks a continuation of British Columbia's efforts to prioritize certain occupations, particularly in the care and construction sectors. The province has been holding targeted draws throughout 2026, with this being the third SI draw to target specific occupations. In previous draws, the province had prioritized candidates based on minimum registration score, wage/salary, and job offer TEER. The focus on care and construction occupations reflects the province's core objectives of attracting highly skilled talent and addressing labour market gaps in these sectors. Historically, the BCPNP has played a crucial role in helping the province meet its labour market needs, and this latest draw is part of that ongoing effort.
The draw resulted in no fewer than 343 invitations being issued to BCPNP candidates across four occupational categories. The largest share of invitations went to candidates in priority construction trades, with 913 invitations issued to candidates in this category. The minimum score required for an invitation in this category was 697. In the care sector, invitations were issued to candidates in childcare, healthcare, and veterinary care occupations. For example, early childhood educators (NOC 42202) received invitations if they held a one-year or five-year ECE Certificate issued by the ECE registry. In the healthcare sector, candidates in occupations such as nursing, medicine, and dentistry were eligible for invitations if they met specific requirements, such as being registered with the BC Care Aide & Community Health Worker Registry.
"Highly qualified workers" were selected across a variety of in-demand sectors, according to the province. The BCPNP's focus on attracting highly skilled talent is reflected in the eligibility criteria for the draw, which included requirements such as valid professional designations and trade certificates.
The latest draw will have an impact on various groups of applicants, including those in the care and construction sectors. Candidates from countries with a high demand for these occupations, such as India and the Philippines, may be particularly affected. Additionally, international students and temporary foreign workers in British Columbia may also be impacted, as they may be eligible for provincial nomination through the BCPNP.
Applicants who are interested in applying for provincial nomination through the BCPNP should check their online account to see if they have been invited to apply. They should also review the eligibility criteria for the various streams and ensure that they meet the requirements. The province has noted that future draws will continue to prioritize certain occupations, so applicants should stay up-to-date on the latest developments and ensure that their application is complete and up-to-date. For more information on the BCPNP and its various streams, applicants can visit the official government website to learn more about the program and its requirements.