On This Page You Will Find
- Overview of the new BC PNP allocation increase
- How the additional nominations will be used
- Impact on waitlisted International Post-Graduate applicants
- Provincial reaction and calls for further increases
- Frequently asked questions
Additional BC PNP Nominations for 2025
British Columbia has secured a modest increase in its immigration allocation for 2025, with 1,254 additional British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) nominations granted by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The increase follows a major federal decision earlier this year that halved BC’s overall allocation from 8,000 in 2024 to around 4,000 in 2025. The additional nominations offer limited relief but will be directed toward existing priorities announced on April 14 – healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, and other high economic impact candidates.
These priority streams align with BC’s long-standing need for skilled workers in sectors that drive economic growth and deliver essential public services. The extra nominations also allow the BC PNP to process part of the 2,240 International Post-Graduate (IPG) applications submitted in 2024 that remain on a waiting list due to earlier quota limits.
Focus on Priority Sectors
The new allocation will primarily benefit applicants in occupations where BC continues to face significant labour shortages. These include healthcare professionals such as nurses, physicians, and technicians; entrepreneurs contributing to local business innovation; and candidates whose skills support the province’s high-value sectors such as technology and clean energy.
However, officials stress that the increase is not large enough to expand beyond these existing priorities. Processing times and intake levels for other categories are expected to remain constrained throughout 2025.
Provincial Response
The BC government welcomed the additional nominations but maintains that the province still requires a far larger allocation to meet its economic and demographic goals.
“The modest increase is insufficient for the BC PNP to expand on other priorities for 2025,” the province stated, adding that it continues to advocate for further increases to match its labour market needs.
BC Premier David Eby has repeatedly emphasized the importance of skilled immigration in maintaining growth across the province’s critical industries, including construction, healthcare, and technology.
Federal Context
The allocation increase comes after national reductions to Provincial Nominee Program numbers for 2025, as Ottawa seeks to balance immigration with housing and service pressures. While IRCC has indicated that provinces can request additional spots, these are being approved selectively and are often tied to federal priorities such as health and entrepreneurship.
The adjustment offers BC some breathing room but does not restore the significant capacity lost earlier in the year. The province continues to press for a more sustainable long-term approach that reflects regional population growth and economic reliance on immigration.
Outlook for Applicants
For those applying under the BC PNP, the new allocation may open opportunities within high-demand categories. However, competition remains strong, and candidates should ensure they meet the most current eligibility criteria, particularly in the healthcare and entrepreneur streams.
The program continues to serve as a key route to permanent residence for international workers who contribute to BC’s economy and communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many additional nominations has British Columbia received for 2025?
IRCC has granted BC an additional 1,254 nominations for 2025. These will be applied to the province’s existing priority areas, including healthcare, entrepreneurship, and high-impact sectors.
Which applicants will benefit from the new allocation?
The extra nominations will focus on healthcare professionals, entrepreneurs, and other candidates in high economic impact roles. A portion will also go toward processing waitlisted International Post-Graduate applications.
Does this increase offset the earlier allocation cuts?
Not fully. The 1,254 additional nominations provide some relief but fall short of restoring BC’s previous levels. The province’s allocation remains significantly lower than in 2024.
What happens to applicants on the International Post-Graduate waiting list?
The BC PNP can now process part of the 2,240 waitlisted IPG applications submitted in 2024. However, not all pending files will receive nominations this year.
Will BC continue to seek more immigration spots?
Yes. The province has stated it will continue to advocate for a larger allocation to address long-term workforce needs, especially in critical sectors such as healthcare and housing construction.
