Nova Scotia, a gem nestled in the Maritime region of Canada, is not only renowned for its picturesque coastal beauty and culinary delights but is also a gateway for skilled professionals and international graduates seeking Canadian Permanent Residency.
With the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP), this province opens its arms to prospective immigrants who possess the skills and experience that align with its economic and labor market needs. Here we’ll dive deep into the NSNP, its various immigration streams, and how you can embark on your journey to make Nova Scotia your new home.
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program, or NSNP, was initiated in 2003 as a response to Nova Scotia’s economic and labor market needs. This program has played a pivotal role in tripling immigration to the province over the last two decades. Today, Nova Scotia welcomes over 7,000 new immigrants annually, with an impressive retention rate exceeding 70%.
The NSNP, along with the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP), introduced in 2017, focuses on aligning newcomers with job opportunities, making it easier for international graduates and temporary workers to transition to permanent residence.
Nova Scotia Immigration Streams:
Nova Scotia offers a variety of immigration streams to cater to different profiles and preferences. These streams can be broadly categorized into enhanced and base streams.
Enhanced streams are aligned with the Express Entry system, providing candidates with an edge by awarding an extra 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points. This substantially increases their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
On the other hand, base streams require candidates to apply directly to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Language requirements, measured on the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) scale, are mandatory for many NSNP streams.
Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry:
This stream does not require a job offer and has no application fee. The minimum requirements include having an Express Entry profile, being aged between 21 and 55, and having at least one year of full-time paid work experience in Nova Scotia within the last three years. Candidates must also possess the necessary language skills and intend to live in Nova Scotia permanently.
The application process involves ensuring eligibility, submitting an online application, accepting the provincial nomination, and finally applying for permanent residence through the Express Entry system.
Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities:
This stream also does not require a job offer and has no application fee. To be eligible, candidates must have a valid Express Entry profile, receive a Letter of Interest from the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration (NSOI) on their Express Entry profile, and meet specific work experience requirements. Financial stability, along with meeting draw-specific eligibility requirements, is also necessary.
The process includes obtaining a Letter of Interest, submitting the required documents, accepting the nomination, and applying for permanent residence through the Express Entry system.
Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Physicians:
For physicians, this stream mandates a job offer and has no application fee. Candidates should meet the prerequisites of a valid Express Entry profile, a Letter of Interest from NSOI, and a job offer from the Nova Scotia Health Authority or IWK Health Centre as a general practitioner, family physician, or specialist physician. They must also meet specific work experience requirements and agree to a two-year commitment to stay in the province.
The application process involves submitting your Express Entry profile number to NSOI, receiving a Letter of Interest, applying to NSNP, confirming the nomination, and eventually applying for permanent residence.
Skilled Worker Stream:
This stream requires a job offer and has no application fee. Eligibility criteria include age, education, job offer, work experience, language proficiency, intention to settle in Nova Scotia, and financial sufficiency. Employers must also meet additional requirements.
The application process entails preparing and submitting the application, receiving the nomination certificate, and applying for permanent residence through IRCC. An option to request a Letter of Support for a temporary work permit is also available, allowing candidates to work in Nova Scotia while their permanent residence application is processed.
Occupation In-Demand Stream:
With a job offer requirement and no application fee, this stream is designed for specific occupations. Candidates must meet the criteria age, job offer, education, training, language skills, and financial stability. The application process is similar to other streams, involving the submission of documents and the subsequent application for permanent residence.
International Graduates In-Demand Stream:
This stream mandates a job offer and has no application fee. Eligible occupations, age, education, program completion, certifications, language proficiency, and financial capacity are key considerations. The application process includes document submission and applying for permanent residence.
Entrepreneur Stream:
The Entrepreneur Stream does not require a job offer and has no application fee. Eligibility criteria encompass age, net worth, business ownership experience, minimum capital investment, education, language proficiency, a business establishment plan, and a commitment to live in Nova Scotia. The process involves submission of an Expression of Interest (EOI), selection, application, financial assessments, and signing a Business Performance Agreement (BPA) for further steps leading to permanent residence.
International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream:
This stream does not require a job offer and has no application fee. To be eligible, candidates must have a Nova Scotia post-secondary diploma or degree, have lived in Nova Scotia during their academic program, and meet various other requirements. The application process involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI), selection, application, and other steps leading to permanent residence.
Physician Stream:
This stream does not require a job offer and has no application fee. It is tailored for general practitioners, family physicians, or specialist physicians. Eligible candidates must have a signed approved opportunity with the Nova Scotia Health Authority or the IWK Health Centre and meet the required educational and training qualifications. The application process includes preparing and submitting an application, confirmation of nomination, and application for permanent residence.
Reasons to Choose Nova Scotia for Immigration
Nova Scotia, situated on Canada’s eastern coast, offers a multitude of compelling reasons for immigration. Here are a few:
Scenic Beauty: Known for its rocky landscapes, breathtaking seascapes, and rich wilderness, Nova Scotia’s natural beauty is unparalleled.
Diverse Economy: While traditionally reliant on its fishing industry, Nova Scotia’s economy has diversified to include trade, new technologies, and tourism. This economic diversification ensures a variety of job opportunities.
Streamlined Entry: Nova Scotia’s immigration program has a low entry barrier. No job offer from Canada is required, and there’s no minimum CRS score. You can apply with just one year of skilled work experience and a high school diploma.
Age No Barrier: Nova Scotia welcomes applicants up to 55, making it an attractive option for those seeking a fresh start in Canada.
Quick Processing: The NSNP boasts a speedy processing time of around three months.
Understanding the Labor Market Priority Stream
The NSNP offers multiple streams, but we’ll focus on the Labor Market Priority Stream, which stands out as the only one not requiring a job offer and is currently open. Here’s what you need to know about this stream:
Eligibility Criteria:
To be eligible for the NSNP Labor Market Priority Stream, you must meet the following criteria:
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): You need an ECA from WES or an approved evaluation service for your high school credentials.
Language Proficiency: Score a minimum of CLB 7 in an English or French language test.
Express Entry Profile: Create an Express Entry profile and ensure you meet the minimum 67 human factor points.
Work Experience: Provide reference letters in the CIC format, demonstrating at least one year of work experience.
Express Your Interest: Express your intention to move to Nova Scotia when creating your Express Entry profile.
Settlement Funds: Show proof of funds to cover your living expenses until you secure a job in Nova Scotia.
Letter of Interest: You’ll receive a Letter of Interest from Nova Scotia automatically through your Express Entry profile.
Application Process:
The application process for the NSNP Labor Market Priority Stream is straightforward:
Create an Express Entry Profile: Visit the IRCC Express Entry website to create your profile. Ensure you express your interest in moving to Nova Scotia by selecting it as your province of choice.
Receive a Letter of Interest: If your profile meets the requirements, Nova Scotia will send you a Letter of Interest, making you eligible to apply online for a provincial nomination.
Apply Online: Submit your application within 30 calendar days of receiving the Letter of Interest. Nova Scotia’s online application service streamlines the process, which should take approximately one hour. Find more
Document Checklist: Refer to the document checklist within the application guide provided in the description box.
Nomination or Refusal: Expect to receive a nomination or refusal within around 3 months. You’ll receive 600 additional CRS points if nominated and must accept the nomination within 30 calendar days.
Nova Scotia’s NSNP offers a remarkable opportunity for individuals seeking Canadian Permanent Residency. With its streamlined process, diverse economy, and stunning landscapes, it’s a top choice for newcomers. Make sure to subscribe to our channel for more immigration and travel tips and follow us on Instagram for regular updates. We wish you the best of luck in your application journey!
