The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) offers an Express Entry BC (EEBC) stream, allowing the province to nominate qualified candidates for Canadian permanent residence through the federal Express Entry system.
On This Page, You Will Find:
- How to apply for the EEBC stream
- Registration and application steps
- BC PNP draws and invitation process
- Nomination and permanent residence procedures
- Frequently asked questions
Who This Program Is For:
This program is ideal for skilled workers, healthcare professionals, and graduates who have the qualifications to contribute to British Columbia’s workforce and are eligible for Express Entry.
This program aligns with the British Columbia Skills Immigration Stream and includes an Express Entry option for four categories:
- Skilled Worker
- Health Authority
- International Graduate
- International Post-Graduate
British Columbia also publishes a list of targeted occupations which qualify for expedited processing through existing streams of the BC PNP.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for EEBC, candidates must first meet the criteria of one of the above streams. They must also be eligible for at least one of the following federal Express Entry programs:
BC PNP Draws
BC PNP conducts regular draws, inviting top-ranked candidates from the pool to apply for provincial nomination. Draw details and selection criteria are published after each draw.
How to Apply to Express Entry BC (EEBC)
Step 1: Choose Your Stream and EEBC Option
Review the available Skills Immigration streams and determine if you qualify for the EEBC option. If nominated under EEBC, you will receive additional points in your Express Entry profile, potentially speeding up your permanent residence application.
Step 2: Register Online
Create a profile and register through the BCPNP Online portal. Registration is free and must include details about your work experience, education, and language proficiency. If selecting EEBC, ensure your nomination links to your Express Entry profile.
Step 3: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Candidates with the highest scores receive invitations to apply for nomination. If invited, you have 30 days to submit a complete application.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Complete all required sections and upload supporting documents. Pay the processing fee before submitting your application.
Step 5: Receive Your BC PNP Nomination
If approved, you will receive a nomination certificate and a work permit support letter (if applicable). Your federal Express Entry profile will also be updated with your nomination.
Step 6: Apply for Permanent Residence
Submit your permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before your nomination expires. If approved, you will receive confirmation of permanent residence and can begin your new life in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Express Entry BC (EEBC) stream?
EEBC is a provincial immigration pathway that allows British Columbia to nominate eligible candidates for Canadian permanent residence through the federal Express Entry system.
How does EEBC differ from regular BC PNP streams?
EEBC is linked to the federal Express Entry system, which means faster processing times and additional points for applicants in the Express Entry pool.
What are the processing times for EEBC applications?
Processing times vary but are generally faster than non-Express Entry applications. BC PNP typically processes nominations within a few months, and IRCC handles permanent residence applications separately.
Do I need a job offer to apply for EEBC?
Most EEBC categories require a valid job offer from a BC employer. However, the International Post-Graduate category does not require a job offer.
What happens if my application is refused?
If your application is refused, you may request a review or reapply if your circumstances change. You may also explore alternative immigration pathways in BC or Canada.
