Complete Guide to Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is a provincial immigration program that enables Nova Scotia to select and nominate individuals who have the skills and experience needed by Nova Scotia employers. Through the NSNP, prospective immigrants who meet the program’s requirements may be nominated to immigrate to Canada and settle permanently in Nova Scotia.

Important Program Update – July 2025

Current Status Alert: As announced on July 16, 2025, Nova Scotia’s economic immigration programs are experiencing unprecedented interest. The province is currently receiving more applications than it can approve in 2025, which may affect processing times and acceptance rates across all streams.

Overview of NSNP Streams

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program consists of 11 distinct streams, each targeting different types of candidates:

1. Skilled Worker Stream

The Skilled Worker stream helps employers recruit foreign workers and recently graduated international students whose skills are needed in Nova Scotia. An employer can only hire foreign workers for positions they have been unable to fill with permanent residents or Canadian citizens.

Current Restriction: As of 12 noon ADT, April 17, 2024, the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program has a significant volume of applications for candidates in the Accommodation and Food Services sector awaiting a decision and must stop accepting applications in this sector while processing current inventory.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Have a full-time permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer
• Have 1 year of work experience related to the job (Workers in TEER 4 or 5 must already have six months’ experience with the employer)
• Be 21 to 55 years old
• Have a high school diploma
• Have appropriate training, skills and/or accreditation for the job
• Language requirements: CLB Level 5 for NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3; CLB 4 for NOC TEER 4 or 5 (test results required even if English/French is first language for TEER 4/5)
• Show sufficient financial resources to successfully settle in Nova Scotia

2. Occupations in Demand Stream

This stream targets specific TEER category 3, 4 or 5 occupations that are in high labour market demand in Nova Scotia.

Current Eligible Occupations:

• NOC 33102 (Nurse Aides)
• NOC 65310 (Light duty cleaners)
• NOC 73300 (Transport truck drivers)
• NOC 73400 (Heavy equipment operators)
• NOC 75110 (Construction trades helpers and labourers)

Eligibility Requirements:

• Full-time permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer in one of the listed NOCs
• 1 year of work experience related to the job
• Be 21 to 55 years old
• High school diploma
• Appropriate training, skills and/or accreditation
• Language ability equal to CLB Level 4 (test results required even if English/French is first language)
• Sufficient financial resources for settlement

Note: Same accommodation and food services restriction applies as in Skilled Worker stream.

3. Critical Construction Worker Pilot

This pilot program is specifically for the construction sector, targeting critical roles in Nova Scotia’s construction industry.

Eligible Occupations Include:

• 70010 – Construction managers
• 70011 – Home building and renovation managers
• 72011 – Contractors and supervisors, electrical trades
• 72014 – Contractors and supervisors, other construction trades
• 72102 – Sheet metal workers
• 72106 – Welders and related machine operators
• 72200 – Electricians (except industrial and power system)
• 72310 – Carpenters
• 72320 – Bricklayers
• 72401 – Heavy-duty equipment mechanics
• 73100 – Concrete finishers
• 73102 – Plasterers, drywall installers and finishers
• 73110 – Roofers and shinglers
• 73400 – Heavy equipment operators
• 75110 – Construction trades helpers and labourers

Requirements:

• Full-time permanent job offer from Nova Scotia construction sector employer
• 1 year of related work experience
• High school diploma OR completion of construction-specific industry training program
• Be 21 to 55 years old
• Language ability: CLB Level 5 (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3) or CLB Level 4 (NOC TEER 4, 5)
• Sufficient financial resources

4. International Graduates in Demand Stream

For recent international graduates from Nova Scotia institutions whose skills match specific job categories.

Current Eligible Occupations:

• NOC 32102: Paramedical occupations
• NOC 32124: Pharmacy technicians
• NOC 33102: Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates
• NOC 42202: Early childhood educators and assistants

Requirements:

• Full-time permanent job offer in corresponding field of study
• Be 19 to 55 years old
• High school diploma
• Completed program at eligible Nova Scotia designated learning institution within three years
• Program must be at least 30 weeks (24 weeks for NOC 33102)
• At least 50% of program completed in Nova Scotia
• Required certifications from NS regulatory bodies
• CLB Level 5 language ability
• Sufficient financial resources

5. International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream

For recent graduates of Nova Scotia institutions who have started or bought a business.

Requirements:

• Want to live permanently in Nova Scotia while owning/managing business
• At least one year continuous experience managing Nova Scotia business (33.33% ownership minimum)
• Completed degree/diploma after 2+ academic years at Nova Scotia university or NSCC
• Valid post-graduation work permit
• CLB Level 7 in all language abilities
• Complete Expression of Interest and receive Invitation to Apply

6. Entrepreneur Stream

For experienced business owners or senior managers who want to establish or purchase a business in Nova Scotia.

Requirements:

• Be 21 years or older
• Net worth of at least $600,000 CAD ($400,000 CAD outside Halifax Regional Municipality)
• Invest at least $150,000 CAD ($100,000 CAD outside HRM)
• 3+ years business ownership experience (1/3 ownership minimum) OR 5+ years senior management experience
• CLB Level 5 in all language abilities
• Complete Expression of Interest and receive Invitation to Apply

7. Physician Stream

Assists Nova Scotia’s public health authorities to recruit physicians.

Requirements:

• Be a general practitioner, family physician (NOC 31102) or specialist physician (NOC 31100, 31101)
• Have signed approved opportunity with Nova Scotia Health Authority or IWK Health Centre
• Opportunity must indicate eligibility for licensure with College of Physicians and Surgeons of NS
• Must indicate eligibility for privileges and credentials with NSHA and IWK

8. Labour Market Priorities for Physicians

Express Entry stream specifically for physicians.

Requirements:

• Approved opportunity from NSHA or IWK
• Signed Return for Service Agreement with NS Department of Health and Wellness (minimum 2 years commitment)
• Receive Letter of Interest from NSNP within Express Entry system
• Apply within 30 calendar days of Letter of Interest
• Meet Express Entry minimum requirements
• Demonstrate sufficient funds
• Legal status in current country of residence

9. Labour Market Priorities Stream

Selects Express Entry candidates who meet provincial labour market needs.

Requirements:

• Receive Letter of Interest from Nova Scotia within Express Entry system
• Apply within 30 calendar days of Letter of Interest
• Meet Express Entry minimum work experience requirements
• Demonstrate sufficient funds
• Legal status in current country of residence
• Valid Express Entry number and meet IRCC criteria

Recent Activity: As of the latest draw in June 2025, the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration issued invitations to candidates under the Labour Market Priorities Stream, with a special focus on healthcare and skilled trades.

10. Experience: Express Entry Stream

For individuals with Nova Scotia work experience who are in the Express Entry pool.

Requirements:

• At least 1 year of work experience in Nova Scotia
• Be 21 to 55 years old
• Canadian high school credential or equivalent
• Language requirements: CLB 7 for NOC TEER 0 and 1; CLB 5 for NOC TEER 2 and 3
• Profile registered in IRCC’s Express Entry system

Note: Same accommodation and food services restriction applies.

11. Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot

A specialized pilot for healthcare professionals, particularly pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.

Recent Development: If you received a Letter of Interest from Nova Scotia in your Express Entry profile on August 28, 2024, you are invited to participate in the pharmacist and pharmacy technician draw of the Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot.

General Application Process

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Review all streams to determine which best matches your qualifications and circumstances. Consider factors such as:

• Work experience and occupation
• Education credentials
• Language abilities
• Age
• Financial resources
• Nova Scotia connections

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Essential Documents for Most Streams:

• Valid passport and travel documents
• Educational credentials and Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
• Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF)
• Work experience documentation
• Job offer letter (if applicable)
• Proof of funds
• Police certificates
• Medical examinations (if required)

Nova Scotia-Specific Forms:

• NSNP 200 – Employer Information Form (if applicable)
• NSNP 50 – Use of a Representative (if applicable)
• NSNP 60 – Authority to Release Personal Information
• Stream-specific application forms

Step 3: Submit Application

• Complete the online application form through the NSNP online system
• Upload all required documents in PDF format
• Pay applicable fees
• Submit complete application

Step 4: Application Processing

• Initial review for completeness
• Eligibility assessment
• Document verification
• Decision notification

Step 5: After Nomination (If Successful)

• Apply to IRCC for permanent residence within 12 months
• Complete federal application requirements
• Medical examinations and background checks
• Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)

Important Application Guidelines

Document Requirements

• All non-English documents must be translated by certified translators
• Documents must be clear and legible
• Keep original documents for your records
• Ensure all required documents are included to avoid rejection

Application Restrictions

• Only one NSNP application per person at a time
• Multiple applications will not be accepted
• Must include all family members (spouse, dependent children) even if not accompanying

Family Members

You must list all dependents on your application even if they are not coming to Canada with you:

• Spouse or common-law partner
• Dependent children under 22 without spouse/partner
• Dependent children 22+ who have been financially dependent since before age 22
• Dependent children unable to support themselves due to mental/physical condition

Important: If you don’t include dependents in your application, they cannot be nominated for permanent residency later.

Recent Program Changes and Updates

2025 Program Pressures

Nova Scotia is experiencing strong interest in its economic immigration programs and is receiving more applications than it can approve in 2025. This has resulted in:

• Increased competition for nominations
• Potential delays in processing times
• Temporary closure of some sectors (Accommodation and Food Services)

Draw Frequency

The Nova Scotia issues ITAs to eligible candidates on a monthly basis. The frequency, size, and date of the Nova Scotia PNP next draw prediction are not published beforehand.

Application Processing Times and Fees

Processing Times

Processing times vary by stream but generally range from 3-6 months for complete applications. Current high application volumes may extend these timeframes.

Application Fees

Fees vary by stream:

• Most streams: Check current fee schedule on official website
• Some streams are fee-exempt
• Additional federal fees apply after nomination

Tips for a Successful NSNP Application

Before Applying

1. Research Thoroughly: Understand Nova Scotia’s economy, communities, and lifestyle
2. Assess All Streams: Choose the stream that best matches your qualifications
3. Improve Your Profile: Enhance language skills, gain relevant experience, or obtain additional credentials
4. Financial Planning: Ensure you meet settlement fund requirements

Application Preparation

1. Professional Translation: Use certified translators for all non-English documents
2. Educational Credentials: Obtain Educational Credential Assessment early
3. Language Testing: Take approved tests even if English/French is your first language (for certain streams)
4. Employment Documentation: Ensure job offers meet all program requirements

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incomplete Applications: Missing documents or information
2. Wrong Stream Selection: Applying to inappropriate stream
3. Inadequate Funds: Not meeting settlement fund requirements
4. Document Quality: Unclear or poor-quality document copies
5. Deadline Management: Missing application deadlines

Living in Nova Scotia

Why Choose Nova Scotia?

• Beautiful Atlantic coastline and natural scenery
• Vibrant cultural scene and welcoming communities
• Growing economy with opportunities in various sectors
• Affordable cost of living compared to other Canadian provinces
• High quality of life and excellent healthcare system
• Strong education system including world-class universities

Key Economic Sectors

• Healthcare and social services
• Information technology
• Ocean technology and marine industries
• Agriculture and seafood
• Tourism and hospitality
• Construction and skilled trades
• Financial services

Contact Information and Resources

NSNP Contact Information

Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration

• Address: 1505 Barrington Street, 4th floor, PO Box 697, Halifax, NS B3J 3K5
• Phone: 902-424-5230
• Toll-free: 1-877-292-9597
• Email: immigration@novascotia.ca

Fraud Reporting

Nova Scotia has established a confidential reporting system for immigration fraud through Clearview Connects. This demonstrates the province’s commitment to program integrity and protecting genuine applicants.

Conclusion

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program offers multiple pathways for skilled workers, international graduates, entrepreneurs, and healthcare professionals to immigrate to one of Canada’s most welcoming provinces. Despite current program pressures due to high application volumes, Nova Scotia remains committed to selecting candidates who can contribute to the province’s economic growth and cultural diversity.

Success in the NSNP requires careful stream selection, thorough preparation, complete documentation, and genuine commitment to settling permanently in Nova Scotia. With proper planning and preparation, the NSNP can be an excellent pathway to Canadian permanent residence and a new life in beautiful Nova Scotia.

For the most current information, eligibility requirements, and application procedures, always consult the official Nova Scotia immigration website at liveinnovascotia.com. Consider consulting with qualified immigration professionals to maximize your chances of success, especially given the current competitive environment.