New Brunswick
Immigration New Brunswick is adjusting its 2025 provincial economic immigration programs and pathways in view of overall changes to Canada’s immigration system and to ensure that the programs are correctly oriented to best address critical provincial workforce needs and priorities.
The New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NB PNP) offers pathways for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates.
New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream - PAUSED
The New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream is designed for French-speaking foreign nationals who have the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to the province’s economy and who are ready to settle in New Brunswick permanently.
Private Career College Graduate Pilot Program
The New Brunswick Private Career College Graduate Pilot Program provides an immigration pathway for international graduates from specific one- or two-year programs at private career colleges in New Brunswick. It targets graduates in fields such as Education, Social Development, Health, IT, Cybersecurity, Business Administration, and Supply Chain/Logistics.
To qualify, candidates must have a job offer in a priority occupation, be Permanent Residency (PR) ready, and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). After receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA), applicants submit their provincial application and, if nominated, apply for a work permit and permanent residency with IRCC. This program is for graduates who do not qualify for the federal Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) but are seeking permanent residence in New Brunswick.
New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream
The New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream is designed for foreign nationals with the skills, education, and work experience needed to contribute to New Brunswick's economy. Key eligibility requirements include having a genuine, full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a New Brunswick employer, meeting PR (Permanent Residency) readiness, and submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Applicants must demonstrate they meet the stream’s minimum criteria, including possessing the necessary documents for a complete application. Once selected, candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and must submit a full application within 45 days. Upon nomination by New Brunswick, applicants apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residency.
New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream
The New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream offers a pathway for experienced entrepreneurs to establish and manage a business in New Brunswick and gain permanent residency. Eligibility requirements include being aged 19–59, having a minimum net worth of $500,000 CAD, and possessing business ownership or senior management experience.
Applicants must submit a business plan with a minimum $150,000 investment and create one full-time job. An Expression of Interest (EOI) is required, and priority is given to those with ties to New Brunswick (e.g., work experience or family). After meeting performance requirements, applicants may be nominated for permanent residency.
Atlantic Immigration Program
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) provides a pathway to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers and international graduates from recognized post-secondary institutions in Atlantic Canada, specifically aimed at addressing labor shortages in New Brunswick. Candidates must be endorsed by a designated employer to apply.
Employer-driven Program:
Employers must be designated by New Brunswick to endorse foreign workers.
Employers must demonstrate compliance with immigration laws, labor standards, and provide settlement services for newcomers.
Employers must also complete mandatory onboarding and intercultural competency training unless exempted.
Eligibility for Employers:
Employers must have been operational for at least two years in Atlantic Canada.
They must demonstrate the need for foreign workers after unsuccessful local hiring efforts.
Candidate Requirements:
Candidates need a valid, full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a designated employer.
They must submit an individualized settlement plan and meet language and work experience requirements.
If already in Canada, candidates must provide proof of legal status (e.g., work or study permit).
New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot
The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Program is a five-year, employer-driven initiative aimed at addressing critical labor shortages in New Brunswick by attracting skilled workers to occupations with long-term vacancies. This program does not accept direct applications from candidates; instead, applications are made through participating employers.
Applicants must have a full-time, permanent job offer from a participating employer in a critical sector.
Employers are selected based on their experience with immigration programs and ability to support newcomer settlement and skills development.