British Columbia extends immigration program for IT professionals

The BC Tech Pilot Immigration Program was launched in 2017 as an interim program, which was later extended until June 2021. On May 28, the B.C. government announced it was being extended indefinitely.

Being now a permanent program, the Tech Pilot will be renamed the BC PNP Tech.

B.C.'s technology sector is a major contributor to the province's economic growth and therefore continues to be a priority. British Columbia will continue to hold weekly immigration selections for the Tech Program.

The main requirement for applicants is to get a job offer in the province in one of 29 suitable occupations.

The list includes the following specialties:

• telecommunications services managers;
• computer and information systems managers;
• managers in publishing, film, broadcasting and stage arts;
• construction engineers;
• mechanical engineers;
• electrical and electronics engineers;
• chemical engineers;
• computer engineers;
• information systems analysts and consultants;
• database analysts and data administrators;
• software developers;
• programmers and developers of interactive media;
• web designers and web developers;
• biotechnologists and biotechnicians;
• electrical and electronic engineering technicians and technologists;
• electronic systems maintenance technicians;
• industrial instrumentation technicians and mechanics;
• computer network techniques;
• user support specialists;
• information systems testing techniques;
• authors and writers;
• editors;
• translators and terminologists;
• techniques of broadcasting;
• audio and video recording equipment;
• auxiliary professions in film, broadcasting and stage arts;
• other technical and coordinating professions in broadcasting, photography, and stage art;
• graphic designers and illustrators;
• specialists in wholesale sales services.

For more information on BC's Tech, see here.