Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS)

The Skills Immigration Registration System (SIRS) is a points-based system used by the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) to manage applications under its Skills Immigration and Express Entry BC streams. SIRS helps prioritize candidates with the qualifications, experience, and skills most in demand in British Columbia’s labor market.

Key Features of SIRS

• Points-Based Selection: SIRS evaluates candidates based on a comprehensive points grid, awarding scores for education, work experience, language proficiency, and connection to British Columbia.
• Expression of Interest (EOI): Applicants must first create an online profile through the BC PNP portal and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to enter the SIRS pool.
• Invitation to Apply (ITA): BC PNP conducts periodic draws, inviting the highest-scoring candidates to apply for a provincial nomination.
• Ranking Transparency: Candidates are ranked within the pool based on total points, providing transparency and encouraging profile improvement.
• Dual Streams: SIRS operates for both Skills Immigration and Express Entry BC pathways, offering flexibility for skilled workers and graduates.

Factors Considered in SIRS

Points under SIRS are allocated based on several human capital and economic factors that determine an applicant’s potential to contribute to BC’s workforce:

• Education: Level and field of study, including Canadian education credentials.
• Work Experience: Years of relevant experience in skilled occupations, both in and outside Canada.
• Language Proficiency: English or French test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, etc.).
• Connection to BC: Job offer, prior work or study in BC, or family ties in the province.
• Job Offer Details: Wage level, occupation skill type, and location within British Columbia.

Benefits of the SIRS System

• Fair and Transparent Selection: Candidates are ranked objectively, ensuring fairness and clarity in the nomination process.
• Improvement Opportunity: Applicants can update their profiles to improve scores and increase their chances of receiving an ITA.
• Targeted Talent Attraction: Helps BC attract professionals with skills aligned with provincial labor market needs, supporting long-term growth.

Application Overview

1. Step 1: Create an online SIRS profile through the BC PNP portal.
2. Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive a score based on your qualifications.
3. Step 3: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from BC PNP during a selection draw.
4. Step 4: Submit your nomination application within the designated timeframe with required documentation.
5. Step 5: If nominated, apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

The SIRS framework ensures a streamlined, merit-based, and transparent process for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in British Columbia, aligning the province’s labor market needs with global talent.