What Is the Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled (ELSS) Stream?
This category under the BC PNP’s Skills Immigration stream is for individuals who:
- Are currently working in BC
- Are employed in an eligible low- or semi-skilled occupation
- Want to transition from temporary to permanent resident status
It’s a rare opportunity for lower-skilled workers to obtain PR through a provincial program—something not offered by most other provinces.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, you must:
✅ Be employed full-time in BC in an eligible entry-level or semi-skilled occupation in:
- Tourism and hospitality (e.g., servers, hotel front desk clerks, kitchen helpers)
- Food processing
- Long-haul trucking
- Other NOC TEER 4 or 5 jobs in the Northeast Development Region of BC
✅ Have worked for your BC employer for at least 9 consecutive months in the same job before applying
✅ Have a valid job offer that is full-time and non-seasonal
✅ Meet language requirements: CLB 4 minimum in English or French
✅ Meet minimum education requirements (secondary school graduation)
✅ Show sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents
✅ Have legal immigration status in Canada (if applying from within Canada)
What About the Employer?
Your employer must:
- Be in good standing in BC
- Offer a wage that meets industry standards
- Demonstrate genuine need for your role
- Commit to supporting your application
Application Process
- Register Online
Submit a profile through the BC PNP’s Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS) and select the Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled stream. - Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If your score is competitive, BC may invite you to submit a full application. - Submit Your Application
Once invited, complete and upload your documents within 30 days. - Receive a Nomination
If approved, you’ll get a provincial nomination, making you eligible to apply for PR through IRCC. - Apply for Permanent Residency
Submit your PR application (paper-based) using the nomination certificate.
Why Choose the ELSS Stream?
- 👷 Rare Opportunity: One of the few PR pathways available to entry-level workers
- 🏔️ Support for Regional Workers: Special access if you’re in BC’s Northeast region
- 🚛 Open to Key Industries: Hospitality, food production, and trucking are critical sectors
- 🏡 Build a Life in BC: Secure your future where you already live and work
Insider Tips
- Stay with Your Employer: Job changes during the process can complicate your application
- Check Your Region: If you’re in the Northeast Development Region, more jobs qualify
- Watch the Details: CLB scores, job offer type, and employer eligibility are all crucial
Final Thoughts
The BC PNP Entry-Level and Semi-Skilled stream gives hardworking individuals in essential roles a chance to stay in BC permanently. Whether you’re serving guests in Whistler, working in a food plant in Abbotsford, or hauling freight through the Rockies, this pathway recognizes your contribution and rewards your commitment.
At 51 Immigration Consultants, we’ve helped many workers like you go from temporary to permanent status. Reach out today and take the first step toward making British Columbia your forever home.