BC PNP Fee Increase 2026: New $1,750 Application Cost for Skills Immigration Streams – What You Need to Know
Complete Guide to British Columbia PNP Application Fee Changes and How They Affect Your Immigration Plans
The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) announced a significant fee increase for its Skills Immigration category effective January 22, 2026. The application fee has risen from $1,475 to $1,750 – a $275 increase that affects thousands of foreign workers seeking permanent residence through BC’s worker streams.
If you’re planning to immigrate to British Columbia through the BC PNP, or if you’ve already started the application process, this BC PNP fee increase may impact your budget and timeline. Understanding exactly which streams are affected, when the new fees apply, and how to navigate the application process is crucial for your immigration success.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the BC PNP fee increase, including affected streams, payment procedures, refund policies, and the complete Skills Immigration application process.
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Breaking Down the BC PNP Fee Increase: What Changed on January 22, 2026
The New Fee Structure
Previous BC PNP Skills Immigration Fee: $1,475
New BC PNP Skills Immigration Fee: $1,750
Increase Amount: $275 (18.6% increase)
Effective Date: January 22, 2026
Important Timing Information
The BC PNP fee increase applies based on when you submit your provincial nomination application:
✅ Applications submitted BEFORE January 22, 2026: Pay the old fee of $1,475
❌ Applications submitted ON OR AFTER January 22, 2026: Must pay the new fee of $1,750
Critical Point: If you submitted your application before January 22, 2026, you are NOT required to pay the difference. Your original fee payment of $1,475 remains valid.
Official Announcement
The fee increase was officially announced on the BC PNP’s news webpage on January 22, 2026, providing immediate notification to all prospective applicants.
Which BC PNP Streams Are Affected by the Fee Increase?
Skills Immigration Streams Subject to New $1,750 Fee
The BC PNP fee increase applies specifically to the following Skills Immigration streams:
1. Skilled Worker Stream
This stream targets foreign workers with the skills, education, and experience needed by British Columbia employers.
Eligibility Highlights:
- Job offer from a BC employer
- Minimum two years of directly related work experience
- Meets minimum wage requirements
- Demonstrates English or French language proficiency
Who Should Apply:
- Professionals with skilled work experience
- Foreign workers already employed in BC
- Individuals with job offers in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations
2. Entry Level and Semi-Skilled Stream
This category serves workers in tourism/hospitality, long-haul trucking, food processing, or entry-level and semi-skilled positions in the Northeast Development Region.
Eligibility Highlights:
- Job offer from a BC employer in eligible occupation and region
- Minimum nine months of full-time work experience with current employer
- Meets minimum wage requirements
- High school education or equivalent
Who Should Apply:
- Workers in tourism, hospitality, and food processing
- Long-haul truck drivers
- Entry-level workers in Northeast BC
3. Health Authority Stream
Designed specifically for physicians, nurses, psychiatric nurses, allied health professionals, and healthcare assistants.
Eligibility Highlights:
- Job offer from a BC public health authority
- Meets professional licensing requirements
- Demonstrates language proficiency
- Relevant education and training
Who Should Apply:
- Healthcare professionals
- Registered nurses and psychiatric nurses
- Allied health workers
- Healthcare assistants
Express Entry BC (EEBC) Options Also Affected
Both the Skilled Worker Stream and Health Authority Stream have Express Entry-aligned options. Candidates invited through these Express Entry BC (EEBC) streams are also subject to the BC PNP fee increase of $1,750.
Express Entry BC Benefits:
- Provincial nomination adds 600 points to Express Entry CRS score
- Virtually guarantees Invitation to Apply for permanent residence
- Faster processing through federal Express Entry system
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What’s NOT Affected by the BC PNP Fee Increase?
Unchanged Fees and Categories
It’s important to understand what the BC PNP fee increase does NOT affect:
BC PNP Skills Immigration Review Fees:
- Request for review fees remain unchanged
- These fees are non-refundable
BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration Streams:
- All entrepreneur stream fees remain at previous levels
- Base category fees unchanged
- Regional pilot fees unchanged
Other BC PNP Categories:
- International Graduate streams
- International Post-Graduate streams
- Strategic projects category (if applicable)
The fee increase applies exclusively to the three Skills Immigration worker streams listed above.
Understanding BC PNP Application Fees vs. Federal PR Fees
Two Separate Fee Payments Required
Many applicants get confused about immigration fees. It’s crucial to understand that the BC PNP fee increase we’re discussing applies ONLY to the provincial nomination application.
Two-Step Fee Structure:
Step 1: Provincial Nomination Application Fee
- Amount: $1,750 (new fee)
- Paid to: British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program
- Purpose: Processing your provincial nomination application
- Timeline: Paid when submitting nomination application
Step 2: Federal Permanent Residence Application Fee
- Amount: Separate federal fees (IRCC fees)
- Paid to: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- Purpose: Processing your permanent residence application
- Timeline: Paid when submitting federal PR application
Important: You will need to budget for BOTH the provincial nomination fee ($1,750) AND the federal permanent residence processing fees (separate amounts set by IRCC).
How to Pay the New BC PNP Application Fee
Payment Process and Portal
Payment Method:
All BC PNP fee payments must be made through the BC PNP Online User Portal.
Step-by-Step Payment Process:
- Log into BC PNP Online Portal
- Access at the official BC PNP website
- Use your registered account credentials
- Navigate to Payment Section
- Locate your pending application
- Select payment option
- Submit Fee Payment
- Pay the required $1,750 fee
- Accept online payment methods specified by the portal
- Confirm Payment Receipt
- Save payment confirmation
- Retain receipt for your records
Important Payment Timing
When to Pay:
The $1,750 fee must be paid when you submit your complete provincial nomination application after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Deadline: You have 30 days from receiving your ITA to submit your complete application, including fee payment.
BC PNP Fee Refund Policy: What You Need to Know
When Fees Are Refundable
Understanding the BC PNP refund policy is essential before you submit your application and payment.
Refundable Situations:
✅ Application Withdrawn Before Assessment Begins
- If you withdraw your application before BC PNP starts processing
- You can receive a refund of your $1,750 fee
- Must submit formal withdrawal request
Non-Refundable Situations:
❌ Assessment Already Started
- Once BC PNP begins assessing your application
- Fees become non-refundable
- Even if you withdraw or application is refused
❌ Request for Review Fees
- These fees are ALWAYS non-refundable
- No refunds under any circumstances
Strategic Consideration
Given the non-refundable nature of fees once assessment begins, it’s critical to ensure your application is complete, accurate, and eligible before submission.
Expert Application Review Recommended: Before submitting your BC PNP application and paying the $1,750 fee, have immigration professionals review your eligibility and documentation. Visa Master Canada offers comprehensive pre-submission reviews to maximize approval chances and avoid wasted fees. Get your visa to Canada with confidence at www.visamastercanada.com.
Complete BC PNP Skills Immigration Application Process for 2026
Step-by-Step Guide to BC PNP Success
Understanding the complete application process helps you prepare effectively and avoid costly mistakes, especially with the new BC PNP fee increase.
Step 1: Identify Your Eligible Stream
Action Required:
- Research all BC PNP Skills Immigration streams
- Assess your qualifications against eligibility criteria
- Choose the stream that best matches your situation
Key Eligibility Factors:
- Work experience and occupation
- Job offer requirements
- Education level
- Language proficiency
- Wage requirements
- Location of employment
Available Streams:
- Skilled Worker Stream
- Entry Level and Semi-Skilled Stream
- Health Authority Stream
Step 2: Register Online and Enter the Candidate Pool
Registration Process:
Create Your BC PNP Profile:
- Register through BC PNP Online Portal
- Complete comprehensive registration form
- Provide accurate information on all factors
Receive Your SIRS Score:
During registration, you’ll receive a score under the Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS) based on:
Human Capital Factors:
- Work experience
- Education level
- Language proficiency
Economic Factors:
- Wage offered by employer
- Job location within BC
- Regional labor market needs
Profile Validity:
- Profiles remain active in the pool for up to 12 months
- You can update information during this period
- Must maintain eligibility throughout
Step 3: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
How ITAs Work:
BC PNP conducts regular draws from the candidate pool:
- Candidates are ranked by SIRS score
- Top-scoring candidates receive ITAs
- Draws may target specific occupations or regions
Draw Frequency:
- Generally weekly or bi-weekly
- Frequency can vary based on provincial needs
What to Do While Waiting:
- Monitor your email for ITA notifications
- Keep your profile updated
- Maintain your job offer validity
- Improve SIRS score if possible (language tests, education, etc.)
Step 4: Submit Your Provincial Nomination Application
Critical Timing:
Once you receive an ITA, you have 30 days to submit your complete provincial nomination application, or:
- Your ITA will expire
- You’ll be removed from the pool
- You’ll need to re-register
Application Submission Requirements:
Complete Documentation:
- All required forms filled accurately
- Supporting documents submitted
- Proof of work experience
- Educational credentials
- Language test results
- Employer documentation
- Job offer letter
Fee Payment:
- Pay the $1,750 application fee (new rate)
- Submit payment through BC PNP Online Portal
- Retain payment confirmation
Important: Incomplete applications will be rejected, and your ITA will be wasted.
Step 5: Wait for Nomination Decision
Processing Timeline:
Current Estimated Processing Time: 3 months
What Happens During Processing:
BC PNP will:
- Review all submitted documentation
- Verify information with employers
- Assess eligibility against program requirements
- May request additional information or clarification
Two Possible Outcomes:
If Approved:
- You receive a nomination package
- Package includes Confirmation of Nomination (CON) letter
- CON letter has an expiry date
If Refused:
- You receive refusal letter with reasons
- May have option to request review (additional non-refundable fee)
- Can reapply if circumstances change
Important Ongoing Requirement:
Nominations can be withdrawn if you fail to meet all nomination conditions at any time until you become a permanent resident. Common reasons:
- Loss of employment
- Change of employer without notification
- Failure to demonstrate intent to reside in BC
- Material changes in circumstances
Step 6: Submit Federal PR Application to IRCC
After Receiving Nomination:
Critical Deadline:
- Submit your permanent residence application to IRCC before the expiry date listed on your CON letter
- Missing this deadline means your nomination expires
- You’ll need to reapply through BC PNP
Federal Application Requirements:
What to Submit:
- Complete federal PR application forms
- Federal processing fees (separate from BC PNP fee)
- Medical examinations
- Police certificates
- Biometrics
- Additional documentation required by IRCC
Processing Time:
- Federal processing times vary
- Generally several months
- Depends on application completeness and IRCC workload
Step 7: Maintain Legal Status While Waiting (If in Canada)
Work Permit Considerations:
If you’re in Canada with a work permit that’s expiring or has expired:
Options for Maintaining Status:
BC PNP Work Permit Support Letter:
Nominees can obtain a work permit support letter from British Columbia that allows them to apply to IRCC for an LMIA-exempt work permit.
Automatic Provision:
- May be provided automatically with your nomination package
- Applies if you don’t hold a valid work permit OR your permit expires soon
Request Process:
- If not provided automatically, you can request one
- Submit request through BC PNP Online Portal
- Must meet specific criteria
Important Timing:
- Must submit work permit application to IRCC within three months of nomination date
- This work permit allows you to continue working while PR application processes
Maintaining Implied Status:
- If you apply for work permit extension before current permit expires
- You maintain legal status while waiting for decision
- Can continue working under same conditions
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Budgeting for BC PNP: Total Cost Breakdown
Complete Financial Planning Guide
With the BC PNP fee increase, proper financial planning is more important than ever.
Total Costs to Budget For:
Provincial Stage:
- BC PNP Application Fee: $1,750 (new fee)
- Educational Credential Assessment (if required): $200-$300
- Language Tests: $300-$400
- Document translations (if needed): Variable
- Document certification/notarization: Variable
Federal Stage:
- IRCC PR Processing Fee: ~$1,325 per adult
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: $515 per adult
- Biometrics: $85 per person
- Medical Examinations: $200-$400 per person
- Police Certificates: Variable by country
Work Permit (if applicable):
- Work Permit Application Fee: $155
- Work Permit Holder Fee: $100
Total Estimated Cost Range:
- Single Applicant: $3,500-$5,000
- Family of Four: $6,000-$10,000+
These are estimates; actual costs vary based on individual circumstances.
Tips for Successful BC PNP Application Despite Fee Increase
Maximizing Your Approval Chances
Even with the BC PNP fee increase, the investment is worthwhile if your application succeeds. Here’s how to maximize approval chances:
1. Ensure Complete Eligibility Before Applying
- Verify you meet ALL requirements
- Don’t apply “just to try” – fees are non-refundable
- Honest self-assessment saves money
2. Prepare Documentation Thoroughly
- Gather all required documents before ITA
- Ensure translations are certified
- Verify document authenticity and validity
3. Maintain Employer Relationship
- Keep employer informed throughout process
- Ensure continued job offer validity
- Obtain updated letters if circumstances change
4. Meet All Deadlines
- 30-day application submission deadline after ITA
- 3-month work permit application deadline after nomination
- Federal PR application deadline per CON letter
5. Demonstrate Intent to Reside in BC
- This is a major refusal/withdrawal reason
- Provide evidence of BC connections
- Show research on BC communities and lifestyle
- Document job search efforts within BC only
6. Keep Profile Updated
- Update changes immediately in BC PNP Online
- Don’t let information become outdated
- Inform BC PNP of material changes
7. Seek Professional Guidance
- Immigration consultants know common pitfalls
- Expert review can prevent costly mistakes
- Professional support increases success rates
Common BC PNP Application Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t Waste Your $1,750 Fee
Top Mistakes That Lead to Refusals:
❌ Incomplete Documentation
- Missing required documents
- Unsigned forms
- Expired documents
❌ Inaccurate Information
- Mismatched details across documents
- Errors in work experience calculations
- Inconsistent employment dates
❌ Insufficient Proof of Intent to Reside
- Weak ties to British Columbia
- Evidence of job searching in other provinces
- No community research or connections
❌ Employer Documentation Issues
- Job offer doesn’t meet requirements
- Employer information incomplete
- Business documentation insufficient
❌ Missing Deadlines
- Application submitted after 30-day window
- Work permit application late
- Federal PR application after CON expiry
❌ Failure to Disclose Changes
- Not reporting employment changes
- Omitting family status changes
- Hiding material information
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BC PNP vs. Other Provincial Nominee Programs: Is the Fee Increase Worth It?
Comparing BC PNP to Alternatives
With the BC PNP fee increase, some applicants wonder if other provinces offer better value.
BC PNP Advantages:
✅ Strong Economy: BC has diverse, robust economy
✅ Mild Climate: Especially coastal regions
✅ Major Cities: Vancouver, Victoria, Kelowna
✅ Quality of Life: Consistently ranked highly
✅ Express Entry Alignment: Direct pathway to PR
✅ Multiple Stream Options: Flexible eligibility
Fee Comparison with Other Provinces:
Ontario (OINP): $1,500 (lower than BC’s new fee)
Alberta (AAIP): $500 (significantly lower)
Saskatchewan (SINP): $350 (much lower)
Manitoba (MPNP): $500 (lower)
However, Consider:
- Lower fees don’t guarantee easier approval
- Each province has unique eligibility requirements
- Job market and opportunities vary
- Quality of life and personal preferences matter
- Some provinces have longer processing times
The Bottom Line:
The BC PNP fee increase to $1,750 makes it one of the more expensive provincial programs, but for many applicants, the benefits of living and working in British Columbia justify the investment.
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What to Do If You Received an ITA Before the Fee Increase
Timing Scenarios and Implications
Scenario 1: Received ITA Before January 22, 2026
Your Situation:
- ITA issued before fee increase
- 30-day deadline may extend past January 22
Fee You Pay:
- If you submit application before January 22: Pay old fee ($1,475)
- If you submit application on or after January 22: Pay new fee ($1,750)
Strategy: Submit application before January 22 if possible to save $275
Scenario 2: Received ITA On or After January 22, 2026
Your Situation:
- ITA issued after fee increase
Fee You Pay:
- Must pay new fee ($1,750)
- No option for old fee rate
Scenario 3: Application Submitted Before January 22
Your Situation:
- Completed application submitted before fee increase
Fee You Paid:
- Old fee ($1,475)
- No additional payment required
- Original fee remains valid
Future BC PNP Fee Changes: What to Expect
Will Fees Continue to Rise?
The BC PNP fee increase of January 2026 raises questions about future costs.
Historical Context:
Provincial nominee programs periodically adjust fees to:
- Cover administrative costs
- Reflect program improvements
- Align with federal fee structures
- Account for inflation
Potential Future Changes:
While we can’t predict specific future fee increases, applicants should:
- Monitor BC PNP official announcements
- Budget for potential increases
- Apply when ready rather than waiting
- Consider fees may rise over time
Best Strategy:
Don’t delay your application solely due to fees. Immigration opportunities and personal circumstances are more important than saving a few hundred dollars.
Take Action: Start Your BC PNP Application Today
Don’t Let Fee Increases Delay Your Canadian Dream
The BC PNP fee increase to $1,750 is now in effect, and further increases may occur in the future. If you’re eligible for British Columbia’s Provincial Nominee Program, the best time to start is now.
Why Apply Now:
✅ Secure Current Fee: Future increases may occur
✅ High Admission Targets: BC actively seeking skilled workers
✅ Strong Job Market: Many opportunities in BC
✅ Express Entry Alignment: Fast track to permanent residence
✅ Quality of Life: Excellent place to live and work
Your BC PNP Success Starts with Visa Master Canada
Comprehensive BC PNP Services:
Eligibility Assessment:
- Free initial consultation
- Detailed qualification review
- Stream recommendation
- SIRS score estimation
Application Preparation:
- Complete documentation gathering
- Form completion and review
- Employer liaison support
- Job offer verification
Submission Support:
- Online portal navigation
- Fee payment guidance
- Deadline management
- Application tracking
Post-Nomination Services:
- Federal PR application support
- Work permit extension assistance
- Family member applications
- Settlement planning
Why Choose Visa Master Canada:
🏆 Licensed Professionals: Regulated immigration consultants
📚 BC PNP Expertise: Specialized provincial program knowledge
⚡ High Success Rate: Proven track record of approvals
💼 End-to-End Service: From assessment to permanent residence
🌍 Comprehensive Support: All family members included
📞 Responsive Communication: Quick answers to your questions
Get Started with Your BC PNP Application Today
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Frequently Asked Questions About BC PNP Fee Increase
Q: Do I have to pay the new $1,750 fee if I already submitted my application before January 22, 2026?
A: No. If you submitted your application before January 22, 2026, you only need to pay the previous fee of $1,475. You do not need to pay the difference.
Q: Which BC PNP streams are affected by the fee increase?
A: Only the Skills Immigration streams: Skilled Worker Stream, Entry Level and Semi-Skilled Stream, and Health Authority Stream (including their Express Entry BC options).
Q: Are BC PNP Entrepreneur Immigration fees also increasing?
A: No. The fee increase only affects Skills Immigration streams. Entrepreneur Immigration fees remain unchanged.
Q: Can I get a refund if my BC PNP application is refused?
A: No. Once BC PNP begins assessing your application, fees are non-refundable, even if refused. Refunds are only available if you withdraw before assessment begins.
Q: Is the $1,750 fee the only cost for BC PNP?
A: No. This is only the provincial nomination fee. You’ll also need to pay separate federal permanent residence fees to IRCC, plus costs for medical exams, police certificates, language tests, etc.
Q: How do I pay the BC PNP application fee?
A: All fees must be paid through the BC PNP Online User Portal when you submit your complete nomination application.
Q: If I receive an ITA today, which fee do I pay?
A: If your ITA was issued on or after January 22, 2026, you must pay the new fee of $1,750, regardless of when you submit your application.
Q: Will BC PNP fees increase again in the future?
A: While we can’t predict future changes, provincial programs periodically adjust fees. Monitor official BC PNP announcements for any updates.
Q: Can Visa Master Canada help me save money on my BC PNP application?
A: While we can’t reduce government fees, we can help you avoid costly mistakes, prevent application refusals, and ensure your $1,750 investment isn’t wasted. Our expert guidance maximizes approval chances.
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Help others understand the BC PNP fee increase! Share this comprehensive guide with anyone planning to immigrate to British Columbia.
This article provides general information about the BC PNP fee increase effective January 22, 2026. Immigration fees and requirements can change. For personalized advice specific to your situation, consult with licensed immigration professionals at Visa Master Canada.
About Visa Master Canada
Visa Master Canada is a trusted immigration consulting firm specializing in all Canadian immigration pathways, including Provincial Nominee Programs, Express Entry, work permits, study permits, and family sponsorship. Our team of licensed consultants has extensive experience with BC PNP applications and stays current with all program changes, including fee updates.
Make your BC PNP investment count. Contact Visa Master Canada at www.visamastercanada.com for professional guidance and application support!
