Atlantic Immigration Update- Newfoundland and Labrador Launches EOI System, NB Conducts Draws

Newfoundland and Labrador's Inaugural EOI Invitations

Newfoundland and Labrador officially launched its online EOI system in February 2025, and on April 8th, the province issued its inaugural set of invitations through this new process. A total of 256 invitations were extended under both the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).

Also read- Canada Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): How to Apply?

Of the total, 206 invitations were issued through the NLPNP, while 50 candidates received invitations under the AIP. Successful candidates for the NLPNP can now proceed with their application for provincial nomination, and those invited under the AIP can apply for endorsement.

The province's focus for this initial draw was on foreign nationals holding full-time job offers in in-demand occupations. Priority was given to candidates currently residing in Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as those with job offers in rural and remote communities. Furthermore, graduates from post-secondary institutions within the province were also considered a significant asset.

Streamlined Process Aligned with Labour Needs

The new EOI system requires prospective immigrants to create a profile expressing their interest in settling in the province. The Newfoundland and Labrador government then reviews these profiles and selects candidates who align with their labour market needs. Only those selected are invited to apply for provincial nomination or endorsement.

In a recent press release, the provincial government highlighted that this new system provides a more "streamlined economic immigration process" that is better aligned with the province's evolving labour market demands and addresses the limitations on application spaces imposed by federal regulations. Previously, foreign nationals could directly apply to Newfoundland and Labrador's permanent residency pathways.

New Brunswick's Targeted Immigration Draws

 Meanwhile, neighbouring New Brunswick actively conducted multiple draws through its Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) between April 6th and 12th.

Targeting Skilled Workers and Graduates

On April 7th and 8th, the NBPNP issued a total of 432 invitations under the NB Skilled Worker Stream – New Brunswick Experience and the NB Skilled Worker Stream – New Brunswick Graduates. These draws specifically targeted candidates with experience or qualifications in crucial sectors such as Construction Trades, Education and Social & Community Services, and Healthcare.

Focus on Expiring Work Permits and Key Sectors

Additionally, New Brunswick targeted candidates with work permits expiring in 2025 across a broader range of occupations, including Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Forestry; IT; Manufacturing; Professional Occupations (limited to NOC codes at the 1000- and 2000-levels within TEER categories 0, 1, and 2); and Transportation.

Express Entry Stream for Employed Candidates

Further draws were held on April 9th under the NB Express Entry Stream – Employment in New Brunswick, with 45 invitations issued. Eligibility for this stream required candidates to have been employed full-time by a New Brunswick employer for at least one year. These draws also prioritized candidates with experience in Construction Trades, Education and Social & Community Services, and Healthcare.

These recent immigration activities in Newfoundland and Labrador and New Brunswick underscore the ongoing efforts by Atlantic Canadian provinces to attract and retain skilled workers to address their specific labour market needs through their respective provincial nominee programs.

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Alberta PNP Revises Fee and makes key changes in the key AAIP programs

To explore your options for Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) Visa through the most suitable Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) this year, contact our Canada migration expert at Toll-Free No. 78-18-000-777 or you can drop us an e-mail at info@visasavenue.com.

- Rajneesh Kumar