June 27, 2018 – The BC PNP Tech Pilot has been extended for another year to give British Columbia technology companies continued fast access to in-demand skilled workers.
Job offer requirements have been relaxed as part of the extension, with effect from June 26, 2018.
Candidates now only require a one-year full time job offer to qualify for permanent residence.
Previously, a permanent full-time job offer was needed for British Columbia immigration.
The change was made to support the project-based nature of the technology industry.
The list of target occupations has also been reduced from 32 to 29. Officials want to focus on the positions most filled using the pilot in the last 12 months.
What Are The New BC PNP Tech Pilot Job Requirements?
- Job offer must be for one of the 29 targeted occupations (see below)
- Job offer must be for at least one-year duration
- Job offer must be valid for at least 120 days at time of application
What Are The 29 Target Occupations Under The BC PNP Tech Pilot?
NOC Code | Job Title |
0131 | Telecommunication carriers managers |
0213 | Computer and information systems managers |
0512 | Managers – publishing, motion pictures, broadcasting and performing arts |
2131 | Civil engineers |
2132 | Mechanical engineers |
2133 | Electrical and electronics engineers |
2134 | Chemical engineers |
2147 | Computer engineers (except software engineers and designers) |
2171 | Information systems analysts and consultants |
2172 | Database analysts and data administrators |
2173 | Software engineers and designers |
2174 | Computer programmers and interactive media developers |
2175 | Web designers and developers |
2221 | Biological technologists and technicians |
2241 | Electrical and electronics engineering technologists and technicians |
2242 | Electronic service technicians (household and business equipment) |
2243 | Industrial instrument technicians and mechanics |
2281 | Computer network technicians |
2282 | User support technicians |
2283 | Information systems testing technicians |
5121 | Authors and writers |
5122 | Editors |
5125 | Translators, terminologists and interpreters |
5224 | Broadcast technicians |
5225 | Audio and video recording technicians |
5227 | Support occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting, photography and the performing arts |
5226 | Other technical and co-ordinating occupations in motion pictures, broadcasting and the performing arts |
5241 | Graphic designers and illustrators |
6221 | Technical sales specialists – wholesale trade |
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What Target Occupations Were Removed From BC PNP Tech Pilot?
0113 | Purchasing managers |
1123 | Professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations |
4163 | Business development officers and marketing researchers and consultants |
What Is The BC PNP Tech Pilot?
The BC PNP Tech Pilot allows British Columbia immigration officials to expedite the processing of immigration candidates in key in-demand technology occupations.
Weekly invitations are issued to candidates in target occupations.
Technology employers get access to a concierge service that includes a guaranteed next business day assignment of applications.
The BC PNP Tech Pilot prioritises technology sector applications for existing B.C. categories. This means candidates still need to meet the basic requirements of each British Columbia immigration category, including a job offer from a B.C. employer.
Categories include Skilled Workers, Health Care Professionals, International Graduates, International Post-Graduates and Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled Workers.