August saw more PNP programs close applications for the rest of the year due to allocations being exhausted. So we're closely watching to see if 2024 will be a record year in PNP (at this point, we'd guess it will be!). Otherwise, the trend of targeted draws continued through August -- and we also saw a new targeted PNP pathway in Saskatchewan. Read on to find all the details.
Key Stats From August’s PNP Results
Invitations by Province in August 2024:
- Alberta: 41
- BC: Up to 607
- Manitoba: 645
- New Brunswick: No invitations (paused)
- Ontario: 2,665
- PEI: 57
- Quebec: 2,905
- Saskatchewan: No invitations (new program announcement)
Total: 6,920 Invitations
Key Trends in August
- Targeted Draws: Many provinces focused on specific sectors, particularly healthcare, childcare, construction, tech, and veterinary care.
- Healthcare Focus: Several provinces, including BC, Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec, placed particular emphasis on healthcare occupations.
- Province with the Biggest Draw: Quebec had the biggest draw, inviting 1,490 individuals in two targeted draws on August 6.
- Province that Completed the Most Draws: British Columbia (BC) completed the most draws, with 4 draws in August (August 7, August 13, August 20, and August 27).
- Province that Sent the Most Invitations: Quebec sent the most invitations in August, with a total of 2,905 invitations.
Important PNP Updates from August
New Brunswick Pauses Skilled Worker and Express Entry Streams
New Brunswick has paused applications for its Skilled Worker and Express Entry streams for the remainder of 2024 due to allocation exhaustion, reflecting high demand for these pathways.
Two New PR Pathways for Health and Agriculture Workers in Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan has introduced two new permanent residency (PR) pathways for healthcare and agriculture workers as part of its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The Agriculture Talent Pathway and the Health Talent Pathway both require job offers in their respective sectors. These new pathways aim to address labor shortages and support Saskatchewan’s economic growth by attracting skilled foreign workers to fill critical roles.
New Public Policy for PNP Open Work Permits
Canada has introduced a new public policy allowing select Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applicants to obtain open work permits. This policy provides greater flexibility by enabling PNP candidates to continue working in Canada while their PR applications are being processed. Open work permits under this policy allow individuals to work for any employer in Canada, rather than being tied to a specific one, offering increased mobility and economic participation(
BC PNP 2023 Report
British Columbia’s Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) 2023 report highlights the program’s role in addressing critical labor market needs, particularly in sectors like healthcare, tech, childcare, and construction. BC saw significant activity through its PNP, focusing on both general draws and targeted streams for high-demand occupations. The program continues to attract skilled immigrants to the province, contributing to economic growth and development.
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Stephanie Ford
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