What We Can Learn From The BC PNP 2023 Report

Highlights from BC’s PNP in 2023

Record Nominations in 2023

In 2023, the BC PNP achieved a milestone by nominating 8,200 individuals for permanent residence, the highest number ever recorded. 

A significant change in the nomination process was the increased emphasis on applicants with job offers outside Metro Vancouver, boosting regional development.

We also saw a conversion rate of 75.4%, which means that just over three quarters of people who received an invitation to apply to BC’s PNP went on to submit an application. 

Finally, we saw an approval rate of almost 90% for applications submitted to the BC PNP. 

Targeted Occupations and Sector Priorities

The BC PNP continued to prioritize specific sectors critical to the province’s growth. In 2023, healthcare, childcare, veterinary care, and technology remained top priorities. Additionally, construction was added as a new sector priority to support the province’s housing development goals. These targeted draws ensure that essential services and key industries have the skilled workforce needed to thrive.

In addition to these targeted sectors, we also saw 30.4% of invitations going to tech professionals. Plus,  five of the top 10 occupations nominated in 2023 were tech occupations: software engineers and designers, software developers and programmers, computer and information systems managers, graphic designers and illustrators, and information systems specialists. Tech remains a key growth priority in BC and we’re likely to see similar levels of invitations for tech professionals in 2024. 

Regional Distribution of Nominees

One of the standout achievements in 2023 was the successful distribution of nominees across the province. More than a third of the nominees settled in regional communities outside Metro Vancouver, a significant increase from previous years. This shift supports balanced economic development and addresses labor shortages across the province.

Entrepreneur Immigration Program

In 2023, 44 entrepreneurs were nominated, creating 45 new jobs and investing over $22.6 million in the province. We have since seen the EI Regional Pilot become a permanent program (in 2024). 

Key Performance Measures

The BC PNP continues to refine its performance measures to better quantify its impact on the economic development of British Columbia. These measures provide valuable insights into the program’s effectiveness and areas for improvement.

Performance Objective 1: Wages

One of the primary performance measures is the median wage of Skills Immigration (SI) nominees compared to the median wage of British Columbians. In 2023, the median wage for SI nominees was $34.25 per hour, higher than the provincial median wage of $30.00 per hour. This indicates that the BC PNP is successfully attracting highly skilled workers who contribute to the province’s economy.

Performance Objective 2: Regional Nominations

The BC PNP aims to increase the proportion of nominees settling outside Metro Vancouver. In 2023, 34% of SI nominees were based in regional communities, surpassing the target of 30%. This reflects the program’s success in promoting regional development and addressing labor shortages in less urbanized areas. For Entrepreneur Immigration, 63% of nominees settled outside Metro Vancouver, close to the target of 60%.

Performance Objective 3: Essential Services

The BC PNP prioritizes nominees who help deliver essential services, particularly in healthcare and early childhood education. In 2023, there were 779 nominees in healthcare occupations and 842 in early childhood education, significantly exceeding previous years’ figures.

Key Takeaways for Immigrants

Enhanced Opportunities in Regional Areas

For prospective immigrants, the increased focus on regional nominations means greater opportunities to settle in smaller communities, which often offer a lower cost of living and a higher quality of life. This trend is expected to continue, making it an attractive option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger cities.

Prioritization of High-Demand Occupations

Healthcare professionals, early childhood educators, tech workers, and those in the construction industry will find more opportunities through the BC PNP. The program’s targeted draws ensure that individuals in these high-demand occupations have a higher chance of receiving an invitation to apply.

Strong Support for Entrepreneurial Ventures

Entrepreneurs looking to establish or purchase businesses in British Columbia will benefit from the streamlined and strategically focused EI streams. The program’s emphasis on regional development provides added incentives for entrepreneurs to consider opportunities in smaller communities.

Increased Transparency and Program Integrity

The BC PNP has strengthened its commitment to program integrity and anti-fraud measures. These efforts ensure a fair and transparent process for all applicants, enhancing the program’s credibility and reliability.

Predictions for the Future

Continued Growth and Adaptability

The BC PNP is likely to continue its growth trajectory, with an increasing number of nominations expected in the coming years. The program’s adaptability in response to economic needs suggests that new sectors may be prioritized in the future, offering fresh opportunities for immigrants with diverse skill sets.

Greater Emphasis on Regional Development

The trend towards regional nominations is expected to intensify, with more incentives and support for immigrants willing to settle outside major urban centers.

Expansion of Sector-Specific Draws

With the success of targeted draws for healthcare, childcare, technology, and construction, it is anticipated that the BC PNP will expand this approach to other sectors. This could include industries like renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and other emerging fields.

Enhanced Support for Entrepreneurs

The transition of the EI Regional Pilot to a permanent stream indicates a sustained focus on attracting entrepreneurial talent to British Columbia. Future initiatives may include additional support services, streamlined processes, and new pilot programs to further boost entrepreneurial immigration.

Where Is BC’s PNP Going? 

With its focus on regional development, high-demand occupations, and entrepreneurial support, the BC PNP presents a robust and dynamic pathway for those looking to build a future in British Columbia. As the program continues to evolve, it promises to create even more opportunities for immigrants to contribute to and benefit from the province’s vibrant economy.