BC PNP International Graduate Stream Closing: What You Need to Know

But in the meantime, the International Graduate (IG) stream, a pathway used by many international students, is officially closed. But don’t panic—this is part of a bigger plan to roll out three new streams in 2025. Let’s break down what’s happening and what you should do next. 

Key Takeaways 

• The BC PNP issued the last invitations for the International Graduate (IG) stream on November 26, 2024, after which the stream will close. 

• Three new streams for international students will launch in 2025, offering updated pathways for permanent residency. 

• Applicants in the IG pool who don’t receive an ITA in the last round on November 26 (or earlier in 2024) must reapply through the new streams when they open. 

• International graduates should review the upcoming guidelines, including changes to eligibility like language proficiency and work experience. 

• Focus on improving language skills, gaining relevant work experience, and gathering documents to be ready for the new streams. 

Why Is the International Graduate Stream Closing? 

This closure is all about making room for something new and improved. Back in March 2024, BC announced its intention to revamp how international students are supported in their transition to permanent residency. To do this, they’re replacing the IG stream with three new categories tailored to meet evolving immigration priorities. 

The aim is to make the application process more streamlined and better aligned with the province’s labor market needs. 

What Happens to Current Applicants? 

Here’s the key update: November 26, 2024, marked the last day the BC PNP will issue Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for the International Graduate stream. The IG stream is now closed. 

If you were in the IG pool but haven’t received an ITA, your profile will be removed. Unfortunately, this means you’ll need to wait until the new streams open in 2025 to reapply. 

The BC PNP has promised to announce the opening dates for these new categories soon, so keep an eye out for updates. 

What Should You Do If You Miss the Deadline? 

If you’re among those who didn’t get an ITA before the closure, don’t lose hope. There are concrete steps you can take to prepare for the new streams: 

Review the New Guidelines 

The upcoming streams will have updated requirements, including likely changes to eligibility criteria. Take the time to carefully review these guidelines once they’re published. This will help you understand what you’ll need to qualify in 2025. 

At the moment, based on the announcement in March 2024, we expect the following changes to the new BC student PNP:  

• Students graduating from Bachelor programs will require a full-time job offer.  

• Master’s graduates would need a one-year job offer in a skilled occupation.  

• PhD graduates would be exempt from job requirements. 

• Increased language proficiency requirements (more on this below).  

Focus on Language Proficiency 

Strong language skills are likely to be required under BC PNP’s updated student streams in 2025. It’s expected that graduates will need to demonstrate a CLB level 8 or higher to qualify.  

Use this time to improve your English or French proficiency if needed. Whether that means taking a language test like IELTS or enrolling in language classes, getting ahead now could make all the difference. 

Build Relevant Work Experience 

If you’re not already working, start working towards finding a job in BC. Gaining work experience that aligns with provincial priorities could increase your chances of success when the new streams open – in fact, it’s likely to be a requirement for graduates (other than PhD graduates). 

The Benefit of Preparing Early 

For current and prospective applicants, this is an opportunity to get a head start to ensure you’re ready to meet the new requirements. While waiting can be frustrating, being proactive now will give you a head start when the new categories launch. 

Your Next Steps 

Here’s what you should do today: 

• Start by keeping tabs on updates from the BC PNP. Make a habit of checking their website or signing up for the Moving2Canada newsletter via your free account.  

• If you haven’t taken a language test yet, now is the time. Even a small improvement in your score can make a big difference. 

• If you’re in the early stages of your studies in Canada or you’re looking to study in Canada in the future: Consider gaining work experience or education that aligns with high-demand sectors in BC.