In the dynamic landscape of Canadian immigration, provinces play a significant role in selecting economic immigration candidates through their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These programs allow provinces to nominate candidates based on their specific economic priorities, contributing to the nation’s diverse and skilled workforce. Here, we delve into the latest provincial immigration results for the week of September 22-29, 2023, across several key provinces.
Understanding Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Before we dive into the provincial draws, it’s important to note that all Canadian provinces and territories, except Quebec and Nunavut, operate Provincial Nominee Programs. These programs stem from the collaboration between provincial and federal governments, recognizing that immigration is a shared responsibility. However, Quebec holds a unique status, as it enjoys autonomy in selecting and determining the number of economic immigrants invited for permanent selection, primarily due to its distinction as the only province in Canada with French as its first official language.
Ontario’s Healthcare Focus
Ontario made significant moves in the world of provincial immigration. On September 26, Ontario issued 1,696 Notifications of Interest (NOIs) through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). This was a targeted draw specifically for healthcare professionals with NOC codes including general practitioners, nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse aides, and more. The minimum scores ranged from 350 to 462, depending on the profession. The draw signifies Ontario’s commitment to addressing its healthcare workforce needs through immigration.
British Columbia’s Tech and Healthcare Draws
British Columbia conducted its weekly draw, inviting over 204 PNP candidates. Notably, the province held four targeted draws for Skilled Workers and International Graduates, including Express Entry candidates. The largest draw focused on candidates in tech professions, requiring a minimum Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS) score of 90. The province also invited early childcare educators, healthcare professionals, and candidates in other priority occupations, all with minimum SIRS scores of 60. This reflects British Columbia’s strategy to attract skilled workers in high-demand fields.
Quebec’s Diverse Selection
Quebec invited 1,018 Regular Skilled Worker candidates in its recent Arrima draw. Unlike a general draw, this one targeted candidates across various occupations, including tech, healthcare, and teaching. Eligible candidates needed a score of 579 points and a level 7 oral proficiency (or higher) in French. Quebec’s immigration strategy remains committed to selecting a diverse range of candidates based on its economic needs.
Manitoba’s Strategic Recruitment
Manitoba hosted a unique draw on September 28. The province invited 1,072 candidates in the Skilled Workers Overseas category through a strategic recruitment draw. Manitoba considered candidates working in regulated occupations and fully licensed to work in the province. Notably, this draw excluded candidates who had received a prior Invitation to Apply to the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) under a Strategic Recruitment Initiative. Manitoba’s approach demonstrates its focus on strategically filling labor gaps.
Alberta’s Dedicated Healthcare Pathway
Alberta held a draw on September 26, inviting 18 Express Entry candidates through the Dedicated Healthcare Pathway with an Alberta job offer. These candidates were also part of the federal Express Entry system, requiring a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 311. Alberta has allocated a substantial number of invitations for candidates in this stream in 2023, signaling its commitment to strengthening its healthcare sector.
New Brunswick’s August Express Entry Results
New Brunswick released its provincial Express Entry results for August, inviting 175 candidates across three separate PNP streams. These streams include the New Brunswick Employment Connection, New Brunswick Student Connection, and New Brunswick Occupation-In-Demand Connection. Compared to the previous month, New Brunswick issued slightly fewer invitations but continues to actively engage with Express Entry candidates.
The latest provincial immigration results underscore the critical role that provinces play in shaping Canada’s immigration landscape. Each province has its unique priorities, and these draws reflect their efforts to address labor shortages, particularly in healthcare, technology, and various skilled professions. As immigration remains a dynamic and evolving field, staying updated on these provincial draws is crucial for candidates seeking to make Canada their new home.
