Are you looking to immigrate to Canada and settle in a province rich in culture, natural beauty, and career opportunities? The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) offers a fast-track route to Canadian permanent residency for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates.
Located on Canada’s Atlantic coast, Nova Scotia is known for its stunning landscapes, diverse cultural history, and thriving industries. The province’s economy is growing rapidly, creating high demand for skilled professionals across various sectors. Through the NSNP, eligible candidates can receive a provincial nomination, significantly improving their chances of securing permanent residency in Canada.
Why Choose Nova Scotia?
- Strong Job Market – High demand for skilled professionals in healthcare, IT, education, and trades
- Affordable Cost of Living – Lower housing costs compared to major Canadian cities
- Beautiful Natural Landscapes – Stunning coastlines, forests, and lakes
- High Quality of Life – Safe communities, excellent healthcare, and top-rated education
- Diverse Culture – A rich history of Mi’kmaw, Acadian, Celtic, and African cultures
With five key regions—Halifax, Annapolis Valley, Northern Nova Scotia, Southern Nova Scotia, and Cape Breton—the province offers numerous job opportunities and a high standard of living.
What is the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)?
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is a provincial immigration program that allows Nova Scotia to nominate skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates for Canadian permanent residency.
Since its launch in 2003, the NSNP has helped address economic and labor market needs by attracting talented foreign workers to the province. Immigration to Nova Scotia has tripled over the last 20 years, with more than 7,000 newcomers arriving annually. The province also has a high retention rate of over 70%, thanks to programs that match newcomers with job opportunities.
Nova Scotia Immigration Streams
Nova Scotia offers multiple immigration pathways for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates. These are categorized into enhanced and base streams:
Enhanced Streams (Express Entry-Aligned)
Enhanced streams are linked to Canada’s Express Entry system. If you receive a provincial nomination through one of these streams, you’ll get an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, practically guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
- Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry – For skilled workers with at least one year of experience in a high-demand occupation.
- Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities – For Express Entry candidates who meet Nova Scotia’s labor market needs.
- Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Physicians – Specifically for doctors with job offers in Nova Scotia.
Base Streams (Direct to Nova Scotia PNP)
Base streams are not linked to Express Entry. Candidates must apply directly to Nova Scotia and, if nominated, submit a permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Skilled Worker Stream – For workers with a valid job offer from a Nova Scotia employer.
- Occupations in Demand Stream – Targets workers in specific in-demand occupations, such as nurses, truck drivers, and hospitality workers.
- Entrepreneur Stream – For individuals looking to start or buy a business in Nova Scotia.
- International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream – For graduates from Nova Scotia universities who own and operate a business in the province.
- Physician Stream – Specifically for doctors with job offers from Nova Scotia Health Authority or IWK Health Centre.
- Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry (Closed) – This stream is currently closed but may reopen in the future.
Eligibility Requirements for NSNP
While each stream has its own criteria, general requirements include:
- Job Offer – A valid job offer from a Nova Scotia employer (for most streams)
- Work Experience – At least 1-2 years of relevant work experience
- Education – Minimum high school diploma or post-secondary degree (depending on the stream)
- Language Proficiency – English or French (CLB 4-7 or higher) based on the stream
- Proof of Funds – Must demonstrate financial ability to settle in Nova Scotia
How to Apply for Nova Scotia PNP
- Determine your eligibility for an NSNP stream.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) or apply directly through an eligible stream.
- If selected, receive a provincial nomination from Nova Scotia.
- If applying through Express Entry, receive 600 CRS points and wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
- Submit a permanent residence application to IRCC.
- Receive your Canadian PR status and settle in Nova Scotia.
Processing Time: Typically 6-12 months, depending on the stream.
Why Immigrate to Nova Scotia?
- Fast-Track PR Pathway – The NSNP accelerates the immigration process.
- Growing Job Market – High demand in healthcare, IT, engineering, and skilled trades.
- Lower Cost of Living – Affordable housing and everyday expenses.
- High Quality of Life – Safe environment, excellent healthcare, and top education.
- Diverse & Inclusive Community – A welcoming place for newcomers.
Start Your Journey to Canada with the NSNP
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) offers an excellent opportunity for skilled professionals, graduates, and entrepreneurs to settle in one of Canada’s most scenic and opportunity-filled provinces.
For expert guidance on your NSNP application, contact Golden Eagle Immigration today.