Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is designed to attract qualified immigrants who will contribute to the economic growth of this Atlantic province. The NSNP offers several streams adapted for skilled workers, international graduates, entrepreneurs, and physicians. Halifax, the capital, is an emerging tech hub with a world-class ocean sector, while rural areas offer opportunities in agriculture, fishing, and tourism. Nova Scotia is recognized for its exceptional quality of life, renowned universities, and warm welcome to immigrants.
Who is this program for
The NSNP targets skilled workers with a job offer from a Nova Scotia employer, Express Entry candidates with ties to the province, graduates from Nova Scotia universities wishing to stay and work, entrepreneurs with the experience and funds to start a business, physicians and other healthcare professionals recruited by health authorities, and workers in high-demand positions like truck drivers, caregivers, and technology professionals.
Main criteria
Process steps
1. Verify eligibility and choose a stream
Assess your situation and choose from: Skilled Worker, Occupations in Demand, Labour Market Priorities, Physician, Entrepreneur, International Graduate Entrepreneur, or Express Entry Labour Market Priorities.
2. Employer registers (if applicable)
For streams based on a job offer, the employer must first register with the NSNP and obtain approval to hire you.
3. Submit online application
Create an account on the NSNP portal and submit your complete application with all required documents.
4. Application assessment
The NSNP assesses your application. Additional documents may be requested. For some streams, an interview may be required.
5. Obtain provincial nomination
If approved, you receive a provincial nomination letter from Nova Scotia, which adds 600 points to your Express Entry profile or allows you to apply for PR directly.
6. Apply for permanent residence to IRCC
With your nomination, submit your permanent residence application to IRCC within the prescribed timeframes.
Typical documents
This list is not exhaustive. Required documents may vary depending on your situation.
Common mistakes to avoid
- ⚠️Employer not registered with NSNP before submitting application
- ⚠️Job offer not meeting criteria (non-permanent, part-time)
- ⚠️Insufficient language results for chosen stream
- ⚠️Incomplete work experience documentation
- ⚠️Salary offered below market rate for the position
Processing time
Estimated time. May vary based on application volume.
Check current processing timesInterested in this program?
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