Processing Times Increase For BC’s Skills Immigration Pathways

The increased processing times are attributed to fewer federal nominations allocated to BC for 2024 and an increase in the number of applicants. The delays are expected to persist through to early 2025. 

Key Takeaways

• It’s best to apply as soon as possible under BC’s Skills Immigration pathways, since delays are expected. 
• You can learn more about getting maintained status and extending your work permit.
• It’s not possible to ‘fast track’ your application. Be wary of anyone who says you can fast track your application for a fee. It’s likely a scam. 

Which BC PNP Streams Are Affected By Processing Delays?

The processing delay currently only applies to BC’s Skills Immigration streams. There are five streams that fall under this pathway, namely: 

• BC’s Skilled Worker Stream
• Health Authority Stream. 
• Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled Stream. 
• International Graduate. 
• International Post-Graduate Stream. 

Note that BC intends to change its international graduate and post-graduate streams by 2025. 

How Long Are The Processing Delays?

BC has not published updated processing times showing the delay, but applicants should expect to wait longer than 3 months for their applications to be processed. 

BC expects to return to processing 80% of applications received under the Skills Immigration pathway in early 2025. 

Key Takeaways For Anyone Applying For BC’s PNP

Given the likely processing delays, applicants should plan to apply for BC’s PNP as early as possible. Here are some quick tips for applicants: 

1. Identify the right stream long before you become eligible. It can take time to meet specific eligibility requirements, so starting your planning as early as possible is a game changer. 
2. Gather the required documents as early as possible, EXCEPT for documents that expire. You should identify documents that expire (such as language test results) and book your tests for the right time. 
3. Improving your language proficiency can be very helpful in your permanent residency journey. Take steps to improve your English and/or French proficiency long before you start applying for BC’s PNP or Canadian permanent residency through federal pathways. 
4. Speak with your employer about your immigration pathway plans to see if they’re able and willing to help you. We created a guide you can share with your employer. 
5. Plan your finances. Navigating the process of obtaining permanent residency can be expensive. You should consider saving a six-month emergency fund in addition to the funds you need to apply for PR and/or BC’s PNP. You can learn more about managing your finances as a newcomer.

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