The BC PNP set its 2026 priorities around care, building and innovation, closed ELSS and ruled out new student streams.
What happened
On April 23, 2026, the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) announced updated priorities and program changes built around three objectives: Care, Build and Innovate. The province expects at least 35% of nominations to go to candidates working outside Metro Vancouver. British Columbia's federal nomination allocation for 2026 was 5,254.
Who benefits
Priority goes to 36 in-demand occupations in healthcare, education, childcare and veterinary care, including certified early childhood educators and French-speaking teachers in the public K-12 system; certified workers in nine key skilled trades for construction and major infrastructure; and High Economic Impact invitations targeting top talent in all sectors. A temporary initiative will allow up to 250 health authority cleaning and security workers in rural or remote communities to be retained, with registration opening in June 2026 through the expression of interest system.
What is closing
The Entry Level and Semi-Skilled (ELSS) stream is officially closed. The BC PNP will not launch new student streams, although completing studies in B.C. or Canada still earns extra registration points. Priority technology draws have ended, with the last one held on December 3, 2024; occupations on the former tech list remain eligible and targeted invitations continue. Lists of ineligible occupations and employers are also being expanded.
International graduates and entry-level workers in B.C. should look at other pathways, such as Express Entry or other provinces' programs. Workers in healthcare, childcare and the trades should check whether their occupation appears on the updated lists. (Update: on August 18, 2026, B.C. received 1,000 additional nominations, bringing its 2026 allocation to 6,254.)
Key points
- BC PNP now prioritizes healthcare, education, childcare and certified trades
- ELSS is closed, no new student streams, and tech draws have ended
- At least 35% of nominations are meant for candidates outside Metro Vancouver
- Graduates and entry-level workers should consider other pathways
Based on official information available at the time of the announcement. General information only, not legal advice. Immigration rules change often; IRCC and provincial websites prevail.