On April 23, 2026, British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BCPNP) published important changes affecting immigration streams and program priorities.
Main changes
Closure of the Entry Level & Semi-Skilled (ELSS) stream
The Entry Level & Semi-Skilled (ELSS) stream has officially closed.
Cancellation of new streams for graduates
Previously announced streams for graduates of British Columbian educational institutions will not be launched.
Cancellation of draws for priority technology occupations
Targeted draws for priority technology occupations will no longer be held.
Current priorities of the BCPNP
Currently, the program focuses on the following categories of candidates:
1. Healthcare, veterinary, education
Candidates working in the fields of health, veterinary science, education and early childhood education (36 NOCs).
2. Trades
Trades with a valid licence from SkilledTradesBC (9 NOCs).
3. High Economic Impact Applicants
Candidates of any NOC who demonstrate high economic impact. The draw in April 2026 selected candidates with 138 points or a wage of $62/hour.
Regional priority
More than 35% of all nominations will go to candidates working outside the Metro Vancouver region, highlighting the province's focus on regional development.
What does this mean?
These changes reflect a shift toward a more targeted selection of candidates who meet the needs of the British Columbia labour market. Candidates from priority sectors and with high economic potential will have the greatest chance of success.
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"Important: Immigration requirements are constantly changing. The information on this page is current at the time of publication."