On April 14, British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) conducted a new draw under its Entrepreneur Immigration (EI) category, inviting candidates capable of launching new businesses or acquiring and expanding existing ones in British Columbia.
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Draw Results
Invitations were issued through the Base stream of the EI program. A total of 14 candidates received invitations, with a minimum score of 115.
This marks the largest standalone EI draw held by the province so far in 2026. The minimum score dropped by two points compared to the March 10 draw, indicating slightly reduced competition among business applicants.
So far this year, BC PNP has conducted six entrepreneur draws, four of them under the Base stream, issuing at least 41 invitations to qualified candidates.
BC’s Immigration Priorities for 2026
British Columbia was the first province to announce its 2026 PNP allocation, confirmed at 5,254 nomination spaces. Although this reflects a roughly 31% increase from the initial 2025 allocation, it remains lower than the province’s request.
Due to limited allocation, the program continues to prioritize highly impactful entrepreneurs who can contribute significantly to the local economy. While most invitations this year have been issued through the Skills Immigration category, the EI category has seen more frequent draws.
Base vs Regional Entrepreneur Streams
The EI Base stream targets experienced entrepreneurs aiming to establish or acquire businesses anywhere in BC, without requiring community referral. It has higher financial thresholds, including a minimum net worth of $600,000 and an investment of at least $200,000. Applicants must also have at least three years of experience as a business owner-manager and hold a minimum 33.33% ownership in their business.
In comparison, the Regional stream is designed for entrepreneurs planning to operate outside major urban areas like Metro Vancouver. It requires a lower net worth of $300,000 and a minimum investment of $100,000, along with at least 51% business ownership and three years of recent management experience.
Base stream scores in 2026 have ranged between 115 and 121, showing steady competition. Meanwhile, Regional stream scores have varied from 105 to 129, with a lower entry threshold of 105 points.
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