Category: GTR Immigration

In June 2024, the Canadian government announced new pilot programs aimed at supporting caregivers and Canadian families, with plans to make these programs permanent. These initiatives are set to replace the expiring Home Child Care Provider and Home Support Worker pilots, which concluded in June 2024.

Key Features of the New Pilot Programs

• Permanent Residency Upon Arrival: Caregivers will be granted permanent resident status immediately upon their arrival in Canada, streamlining their transition and providing immediate stability.

• Expanded Employment Opportunities: The programs allow caregivers to work for organizations offering temporary or part-time care to semi-independent individuals or those recovering from illnesses or injuries, broadening the scope of eligible employment.

Eligibility Criteria

– Language Proficiency: Achieving a minimum of level 4 on the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB).

• – Educational Background: Holding the equivalent of a Canadian high school diploma.
•  
• – Relevant Work Experience: Demonstrating recent and pertinent experience in the caregiving field.
•  
• – Employment Offer: Securing a full-time job offer in the home care sector.
•  

Addressing the Needs of Canadian Families

Canadian families have long relied on foreign caregivers to provide essential services, particularly for children, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities. The government acknowledges that a stable, well-supported caregiver workforce benefits both the families who depend on their services and the caregivers themselves.

Immigration Minister Marc Miller emphasized the critical role caregivers play in supporting Canadian families, stating that the new pilots will enhance support for caregivers and provide families with the quality care they deserve.

These programs are part of Canada’s broader strategy to address the evolving home care needs of its diverse population. As the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan has allocated 10,920 spots under Federal Economic Pilots, including:

• – New Home Care Worker Immigration Pilots
• – Agri-Food Pilot
• – Community Immigration Pilots
• – Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot

Canada’s Express Entry system manages applications for permanent residency by evaluating candidates using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). The CRS assigns scores to candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. Those with higher CRS scores are more likely to receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.

How Canada Uses the CRS to Select Permanent Residents

The Canadian federal government utilizes the CRS to rank candidates in the Express Entry pool. Regular draws are conducted, and candidates with CRS scores above a specified cut-off receive ITAs for permanent residency. This merit-based approach ensures that individuals who are most likely to contribute economically are prioritized.

Impact of CRS on Permanent Residency

A candidate’s CRS score directly influences their likelihood of receiving an ITA. Higher scores increase the chances of selection in Express Entry draws. For instance, in a recent draw, candidates with a CRS score of 527 or higher received ITAs. Therefore, understanding and improving one’s CRS score is crucial for prospective immigrants.

Eligibility for a CRS Score

To obtain a CRS score, candidates must be eligible for one of the following immigration programs:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
• Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

Additionally, candidates should intend to reside outside the province of Quebec, which manages its own immigration system.

Calculation of CRS Scores

The CRS evaluates candidates based on:

• – Core Human Capital Factors: Age, education, language proficiency, and work experience.
• – Skill Transferability: Combinations of education, work experience, and language skills.
• – Additional Factors: Provincial nominations, Canadian education or work experience, and family ties in Canada.

Each factor contributes to a candidate’s total CRS score, with a maximum of 1,200 points available.

Scoring summary table for core human capital with and without a spouse

Core human capital
Scoring factors	Points for sole candidate without spouse or common-law partner	Points for primary candidate with spouse or common-law partner
Age	110	100
Level of education	150	140
Official languages proficiency	160	150
Canadian work experience	80	70
	Maximum points: 500	Maximum points: 460
Core human capital factors—spouse or common-law partner factors
Spouse’s level of education	N/A	10
Spouse’s official language proficiency	N/A	20
Spouse’s Canadian work experience	N/A	10
Maximum total points for core human capital: 500

Scoring summary table for skill transferability and additional factors

Scoring factors	CRS points for all profiles
Skill transferability
Education
Official language proficiency and post-secondary degree	50
Canadian experience and post-secondary degree	50
	Maximum points: 50
Foreign work experience
Official languages proficiency and foreign work experience	50
Canadian work experience and foreign work experience	50
	Maximum points: 50
Certificate of qualification
Official languages proficiency and certificate of qualification	50
	Maximum points: 50
Maximum total points for skill transferability: 100
Additional factors
French language proficiency	50
Post-secondary education in Canada	30
Arranged employment under NOC TEER 0 major group 00	200
Arranged employment under NOC TEER 1, 2, or 3 OR  NOC TEER 0 except major group 00	50
Brother or sister living in Canada (as a citizen or permanent resident)	15
Provincial or territorial nomination	600
Maximum total points for additional factors: 600

Strategies to Increase Your CRS Score

Candidates can enhance their CRS scores through various means:

• – Improving Language Proficiency: Achieving higher scores in approved English or French language tests can significantly boost CRS points.
• – Educational Advancements: Obtaining additional degrees or certifications can increase educational points.
• – Gaining Work Experience: Accumulating more years of skilled work experience, especially in Canada, adds to the score.
• – Securing a Provincial Nomination: Being nominated by a Canadian province grants an additional 600 CRS points.

It’s important to note that candidates can improve their scores while in the Express Entry pool without resubmitting their profiles.

Understanding the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB)

The Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) is the national standard for assessing language proficiency of prospective immigrants. It evaluates abilities in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Achieving higher CLB levels can enhance a candidate’s CRS score, as language proficiency is a key component of the CRS.

The CRS is a crucial component of Canada’s immigration system, determining who receives an invitation for permanent residency. Understanding how CRS scores work and actively improving them can increase your chances of success. Whether through language proficiency, education, work experience, or a provincial nomination, there are multiple ways to boost your CRS and secure your place in Canada.

In 2024, Canada welcomed 374,832 new citizens, reflecting its ongoing commitment to embracing newcomers with Indian nationals comprising the largest group . This figure, while slightly lower than the 379,957 new citizens in 2023, underscores Canada’s dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive society.

The distribution of new citizens throughout the year showed a varying trend:

• Q1 (January–March): 89,421 new citizens

• Q2 (April–June): 104,218 new citizens (highest)

• Q3 (July–September): 95,600 new citizens

• Q4 (October–December): 69,593 new citizens (lowest)

Top Countries of Origin for New Canadian Citizens in 2024:

In 2024, Canada’s vibrant and diverse immigration landscape welcomed new citizens from 217 countries, showcasing its global appeal as a destination for individuals and families seeking a better future.

Country of Birth	2024	2023	2022	2021	2020
India	87,812	78,714	59,580	20,860	15,418
Philippines	37,843	36,871	41,586	18,242	15,991
China	14,134	12,621	10,821	5,147	4,708
Nigeria	13,210	14,323	12,688	3,292	2,287
Pakistan	10,831	13,384	15,207	5,551	4,740
Iran	10,350	10,757	13,085	4,853	4,888
United States of America	9,560	8,599	9,243	3,479	2,480
Brazil	9,381	6,895	5,294	1,356	843
France	9,250	8,266	8,174	2,733	2,319

Provincial Distribution

Province	2024	2023
Ontario	205,700	206,820
Alberta	66,350	57,595
British Columbia	63,105	70,825
Quebec	59,425	52,810
New Brunswick	15,490	11,460
Nova Scotia	14,285	11,805

Canadian Citizenship Processing Update

In response to concerns over housing affordability and the strain on social services, the Canadian government announced plans to reduce immigration targets. The revised targets aim for 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025, decreasing to 365,000 by 2027. This marks the first multi-year reduction in immigration numbers since 2018.

Requirements to be eligible for Canadian Citizenship

To become a Canadian citizen, you must:

• – Be a permanent resident.
• – Have lived in Canada for at least 1,095 days (3 out of the last 5 years).
• – Have filed your taxes, if required.
• – Prove your language skills in English or French.
• – Pass a citizenship test.
• – Take the oath of citizenship.

Certain situations may prevent you from becoming a Canadian citizen, such as having a criminal record or being under a removal order.

Processing Time for Canadian Citizenship

After obtaining permanent residency, you must live in Canada for at least 1,095 days within the five years preceding your application. Once you submit your citizenship application, processing times can vary. Factors influencing the duration include the volume of applications, completeness of your submission, and individual circumstances. It’s advisable to consult the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the most current processing times.

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A recent report by MovingWaldo has unveiled Canada’s most affordable provinces that offer an exceptional quality of life in 2025. The rankings are based on factors such as the safety of neighbourhoods, housing prices, rental costs, and the overall average cost of living.

Province	Average monthly cost of living	Average 1-bedroom apartment/ monthly rent	Average property buying cost
Newfoundland & Labrador	$2,411.87	$845	$297,000
New Brunswick	$2,341.21	$1,274	$308,800
Saskatchewan	$2,531.25	$1,228	$344,800
Manitoba	$2,696.7	$1,381	$376,770
Prince Edward Island	$2,718.14	$850	$365,600
Quebec	$2,665.56	$1,776	$525,732
Nova Scotia	$3,101.53	$2,100	$564,000

Newfoundland & Labrador

With an average monthly cost of living of $2,411.87, average one-bedroom apartment rent at $845, and average property prices around $297,000, this province is known for its stunning coastal scenery and welcoming communities.

Immigration pathways

• 1. Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)

• The NLPNP allows the province to nominate individuals who meet specific criteria to the federal government for permanent residency. The program includes several categories:

  • – Skilled Worker Category

  • – Express Entry Skilled Worker Category

  • – International Graduate Category  

  • – International Entrepreneur Category

  • – International Graduate Entrepreneur Category

  2. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

  3. Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador

New Brunswick

Boasting the lowest monthly cost of living in the country at $2,341.21, with one-bedroom rents averaging $1,274 and property prices at $308,800, New Brunswick offers a peaceful environment and access to natural beauty.

Immigration pathways

1. New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)

The NBPNP is a key immigration program that allows the province to nominate individuals for permanent residency based on its labor market and economic development needs. The program includes several streams:

• • – Express Entry Stream.
  • – Skilled Workers Stream.
  • – Business Immigration Stream.
  • – Strategic Initiative Stream.
  • – Critical Worker Pilot.

2. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

Saskatchewan

Known as the sunniest province in Canada, Saskatchewan has a cost of living of $2,531.25, one-bedroom rents at $1,228, and average home prices of $344,800. It appeals to those who value open spaces and recreational opportunities.

Immigration pathways

Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)

The SINP has several streams tailored to different applicant categories:

• International Skilled Worker Category: This stream targets skilled workers who want to live and work in Saskatchewan. It includes:

• – Employment Offer Sub-Categor
• – Occupations In-Demand Sub-Category
• –  Express Entry Sub-Category
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• Saskatchewan Experience Category: Designed for foreign nationals already living and working in Saskatchewan. It includes:

• – Existing Work Permit Sub-Category
• – Health Professionals Sub-Category
• – Hospitality Sector Project Sub-Category
• – Long-Haul Truck Driver Project Sub-Category
• – Students Sub-Category
•  

• Entrepreneur and Farm Category: This stream targets individuals interested in owning and actively managing a business or farm in Saskatchewan. It includes:

• – Entrepreneur Sub-Category
• – Farm Owner and Operator Sub-Category

Manitoba

With a monthly cost of living of $2,696.70, one-bedroom rents at $1,381, and average property prices of $376,770, Manitoba offers vibrant city life in Winnipeg and serene landscapes, making it ideal for families and professionals.

Immigration pathways

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is the province’s PNP with these 3 streams:

• – Skilled Worker Stream.
• – International Education Stream (IES).
• – Business Investor.

In which Skilled Worker Stream features two pathways: Skilled Worker in Manitoba (SWM), and Skilled Worker Overseas (SWO). The Skilled Worker Overseas Stream includes the Manitoba Express Entry Pathway, an Express Entry aligned pathway (for those who have an active Express Entry profile).

Prince Edward Island

As Canada’s smallest province, PEI has a cost of living of $2,718.14, with one-bedroom rents at $850 and average home prices at $365,600. It’s renowned for its breathtaking beaches and welcoming communities.

Immigration pathways

1. PEI Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)

The PEI PNP is the primary immigration program, designed to nominate individuals who meet specific labor market and economic needs. It has three main categories:

• – Express Entry Category
• – Labour Impact Category
• – Business Impact Category

2. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

PEI participates in the AIP, a federal initiative to address labor shortages in Atlantic Canada.

Quebec

Despite higher taxes, Quebec offers a cost of living at $2,665.56, one-bedroom rents averaging $1,776, and property prices around $525,732. The province provides a rich culture, diverse housing options, and quality public services.

Quebec has its own immigration system, with programs like the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) for individuals who meet specific criteria.

Nova Scotia

With a cost of living of $3,101.53, one-bedroom rents at $2,100, and average home prices of $564,000, Nova Scotia’s coastal charm and friendly communities offer a high quality of life.

Immigration pathways

Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)

The NSNP allows the province to nominate candidates for permanent residency who meet specific labor market needs. Key streams under the NSNP include:

• – Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Stream: Targets highly skilled individuals with experience in occupations that are in demand in the province.
• – Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry Stream: Designed for skilled workers with at least one year of work experience in Nova Scotia.
• – Skilled Worker Stream: Assists employers in hiring foreign workers and international graduates with the required skills.
• – Entrepreneur Stream: For individuals who wish to start or buy a business and settle in Nova Scotia.
• – International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream: Tailored for recent graduates of Nova Scotia post-secondary institutions who have started or operated a business in the province.

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

Canada’s diverse provinces offer a range of affordable living options combined with high quality of life. For immigrants seeking new opportunities, these provinces not only provide economic stability and community support but also have streamlined immigration pathways to facilitate smooth settlement. As 2025 unfolds, these regions stand out as top choices for those aspiring to build a fulfilling life in Canada.

In response to the United States imposing 25% tariffs on Canadian goods, Canada has announced its own set of countermeasures. On February 1, 2025, the Government of Canada declared that it would implement 25% tariffs on $155 billion worth of U.S. imports. The initial phase, effective February 4, 2025, targets $30 billion in goods, including products such as orange juice, peanut butter, wine, spirits, beer, coffee, appliances, apparel, footwear, motorcycles, cosmetics, and pulp and paper.

The government also plans to impose tariffs on an additional list of U.S. goods worth $125 billion. This list will be open for a 21-day public comment period prior to implementation and includes items such as passenger vehicles and trucks (including electric vehicles), steel and aluminum products, certain fruits and vegetables, aerospace products, beef, pork, dairy, trucks and buses, recreational vehicles, and recreational boats.

Affected Products

The tariffs will impact a wide range of U.S. goods, including:

• – Wine
• – Fruits and vegetables
• – Clothing
• – Household items
• – Packaging materials such as corrugated and paperboard cartons, boxes, and bags, as well as plastic bags, stoppers, lids, and closures

Exploring Additional Countermeasures

Beyond the federal response, Canadian provinces are implementing their own measures. For instance, Ontario Premier Doug Ford has directed the Liquor Control Board of Ontario to remove American alcohol from store shelves.

Similarly, Nova Scotia plans to double tolls for commercial vehicles entering from the U.S. and limit provincial procurement for American businesses. These actions aim to exert additional pressure on the U.S. economy.

Justin Trudeau Calls for Canadian Solidarity

Prime Minister Trudeau emphasized the importance of national unity, urging Canadians to support domestic products and consider boycotting U.S. goods. He highlighted the deep-rooted partnerships and shared sacrifices between the two nations, calling for collective resilience in the face of economic challenges.

Economic and Political Ramifications

The imposition of these tariffs is expected to have significant economic impacts:

• For Canada: The Bank of Canada warns that such tariffs represent a substantial price shock, potentially disrupting supply and demand dynamics and leading to adjustments in wages and business costs.

• For the U.S.: The tariffs could disrupt production at American auto assembly plants and oil refineries, increase costs for consumers, and pose risks to overall economic prosperity.

Politically, these measures may strain the historically strong relationship between Canada and the U.S., leading to increased tensions and potential further retaliatory actions.

In summary, Canada’s decision to impose significant tariffs on U.S. goods marks a pivotal moment in North American trade relations, with wide-ranging implications for both economies.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in its latest Express Entry draw, marking another significant step in Canada’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled talent and support economic growth.

Details of the Draw

This draw specifically targeted candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), a key category within the Express Entry system designed for individuals with recent work experience in Canada. The draw details are as follows:

• – Total ITAs Issued: 4,000
• – Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: 521
• – Profile Creation Cut-Off: Candidates needed to have created their Express Entry profile on or before 2:52:14 AM (UTC) on November 14, 2024

Express Entry draws in 2025

Date	Draw Type	Number of ITAs	Cut-off CRS score
February 5	Canadian Experience Class	4,000	521
February 4	Provincial Nominee Program	455	802
January 23	Canadian Experience Class	4,000	527
January 8	Canadian Experience Class	1,350	542
January 7	Provincial Nominee Program	471	793

Express Entry vs. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

While both Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are key pathways for economic immigration to Canada, they differ in several critical ways:

• Express Entry: A federal system managing applications for permanent residence. Candidates are ranked based on CRS scores considering factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency. High-ranking candidates receive ITAs in regular draws. It contains three streams:

  • – The Canadian Experience Class (CEC);
  • – The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP); and
  • – The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP).

• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): These programs allow provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet specific local labor market needs. PNPs can be aligned with Express Entry (enhanced nominations) or operate independently (base nominations). A provincial nomination significantly boosts a candidate’s CRS score by 600 points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA.

In its latest Express Entry draws held from February 3rd to 6th, 2025, Alberta’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) extended 308 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to prospective immigrants. This milestone reflects Alberta’s strategic efforts to attract skilled workers, strengthening both its workforce and economic landscape.

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) concentrated on key streams to meet specific labor demands, including:

• – Dedicated Health Care Pathway (both Express Entry and non-Express Entry)
• – The Rural Renewal Stream.

By focusing on candidates with healthcare expertise and supporting rural community development, Alberta aims to address critical sector needs while fostering sustainable growth. Successful candidates will have the chance to settle, work, and thrive in Alberta, playing a vital role in the province’s ongoing economic success.

Alberta PNP- Draw Details

Date	Draw Type	Minimum score	Number of invitations
February 6, 2025	Dedicated Health Care Pathway – non-Express Entry	50	48
February 5, 2025	Dedicated Health Care Pathway – Express Entry	52	70
February 3, 2025	Rural Renewal Stream	68	190
		Total	308

Dedicated Health Care Pathway

1. Two Entry Options:

• Express Entry Stream: For candidates who are already in the federal Express Entry pool, making the process faster as they can benefit from additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points after nomination.
•  
• Non-Express Entry Stream: For candidates not in the Express Entry system, offering an alternative route to permanent residence through a direct provincial nomination.

• 2. Eligibility Requirements:

  • – Valid Job Offer: Applicants typically need a job offer from an Alberta healthcare employer in an eligible occupation.
  • – Regulatory Approval: Candidates may need to be licensed or registered with the appropriate regulatory body in Alberta for their specific healthcare role (e.g., nurses, physicians, allied health professionals).
  • – Work Experience: Relevant work experience in the healthcare sector, either in Canada or internationally.

• 3. Targeted Occupations:
  The pathway focuses on high-demand healthcare roles, such as:

  • – Registered Nurses (RNs)
  • – Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
  • – Physicians
  • – Healthcare Aides
  • – Medical Laboratory Technologists
  • – Allied Health Professionals
  •  

• 4. Benefits of the Program:

  • – Faster Processing Times: Especially through the Express Entry option.
  • – Pathway to Permanent Residency: Successful applicants receive a provincial nomination, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residence.
  • – Support for Rural Areas: The program also helps fill gaps in rural healthcare facilities through connections with the Rural Renewal Stream.
  •  

• 5. Contribution to Alberta’s Growth:
  This pathway is part of Alberta’s broader strategy to strengthen its healthcare system, improve patient care, and ensure that communities—especially in underserved rural areas—have access to essential medical services.

Rural Renewal Stream

The Rural Renewal Stream is a key immigration pathway under the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) designed to attract skilled workers to rural communities in Alberta. Its primary goal is to address labor shortages, support economic growth, and promote the development of smaller communities outside major urban centers.

KEY FEATURES:

1. Community-Driven Approach:

   • – The program is community-led, meaning rural communities must first be designated by the Alberta government to participate.
   • – Designated communities work with local employers to identify labor shortages and recruit foreign workers to fill those roles.
   •  

2. Eligibility Requirements:

   • – Job Offer: Applicants need a full-time, permanent job offer from an employer in a designated rural Alberta community.
   • – Community Endorsement: Before applying to the AAIP, candidates must receive an endorsement letter from the participating community, confirming their employment and integration plans.
   • – Work Experience: At least 12 months of relevant work experience within the past 18 months, either in Alberta or abroad, depending on the job.
   • – Language Proficiency: Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) scores, typically CLB 4 or higher, depending on the job’s requirements.
   • – Education: High school diploma or higher, based on the occupation and employer’s needs.
   •  

3. Designated Rural Communities:

   • – Communities eligible under this stream include small towns, villages, and municipalities facing population decline or economic challenges.
   • – Examples may include places like Brooks, Fort Macleod, Claresholm, or High River, though the list can vary as more communities receive designation.

New Brunswick, one of Canada’s most welcoming provinces, has announced the reopening of its immigration programs, bringing exciting opportunities for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and families looking to make the province their new home.

As of February 5, 2025, New Brunswick has officially reopened its provincial immigration programs, which had been temporarily paused due to federal program changes that reduced the province’s immigration allocation. The provincial government announced that these programs will open in the coming days and encourages applicants to monitor program pages for updates.

New Brunswick Stream and program updates

New Brunswick Express Entry

• This stream is designed for workers with the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to New Brunswick’s economy and who are ready to live and work in the province permanently. It connects to the federal Express Entry system, increasing candidates’ chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Notably, the New Brunswick Student Connection under this stream is not returning for 2025.
•  
• In the coming weeks, the New Brunswick Express Entry stream will start to accept new Expressions of Interest (EOIs) under the:
•  
• • – Employment in New Brunswick pathway; and
  • – The New Brunswick Interests pathway.
  •  

  At the current time, candidates in the following occupations will not be considered:

  • – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers (NOC 12200).
  • – Administrative assistants (NOC 13110).
  • – Restaurant and food service managers (NOC 60030).
  • – Food service supervisors (NOC 62020).
  • – Cooks (NOC 63200).
  • – Bakers (NOC 63202).

New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream

• This stream is designed for foreign nationals who possess the skills, education, and work experience needed to contribute to New Brunswick’s economy. Candidates must have a genuine offer of employment from a New Brunswick employer and intend to live and work in the province permanently. The 2025 iteration of this stream has been updated and now comprises three separate pathways.

Pathway	Eligibility requirements
New Brunswick Work Experience	– Having in a full-time, non-seasonal position for an eligible New Brunswick employer in the last 6 months; and – Must have lived within the province in the last 6 months.
New Brunswick Graduates	– Must have completed a program of study that is eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) at a New Brunswick Designated Learning Institution (DLI); and – Having a full-time non-seasonal job or job offer from an eligible New Brunswick employer.
New Brunswick Priority Occupations	– Having a full time, non-seasonal job offer from an eligible New Brunswick employer as a result of a recruitment mission led by the Government of New Brunswick; – Must be in a position included within the list of specified priority National Occupation Classification (NOC) codes ; & – Having at least 1 year of experience related to this position.

At this time the NBPNP will not be considering candidates in the following occupations for the Skilled Worker stream:

• – Accounting technicians and bookkeepers (NOC 12200).
• – Administrative assistants (NOC 13110).
• – Shippers and receivers (NOC 14400).
• – Restaurant and food service managers (NOC 60030).
• – Food service supervisors (NOC 62020).
• – Cooks (NOC 63200).
• – Bakers (NOC 63202).
• – Bartenders (NOC 64301).
• – Other customer representatives (NOC 64409).
• – Food and beverage servers (NOC 65200).
• – Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers, and related occupations (NOC 65201).
• – Process control and machine operators – food and beverage processing (NOC 94140).
• – Fish and seafood plant workers (NOC 94142).
• – Laborers in food and beverage processing (NOC 95106).
• – Laborers in fish and seafood (NOC 95107).

New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream

• This stream targets specifically at French-speaking skilled workers, this stream supports New Brunswick’s goal of enhancing its bilingual workforce. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to integrate into the province’s labor market and communities effectively.

The “In-Person Exploratory Visit to New Brunswick” connection under this stream was paused in November of 2024, and will not return in 2025.

In 2024, New Brunswick reached its federal-appointed quota for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), leading to temporary pauses in its Express Entry and Skilled Worker streams.

The province is currently adjusting its 2025 provincial economic immigration programs and pathways to align with changes in Canada’s immigration system and to address critical provincial workforce needs and priorities.

On February 4, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its second Express Entry draw of the year targeting Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates.

In this draw, 455 candidates received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirement of 802. To be eligible, candidates needed to have submitted their Express Entry profiles before 7:39 pm Coordinated Universal Time (UTC) on December 7, 2024.

The elevated CRS score is attributed to the additional 600 points automatically awarded to candidates who have secured a provincial nomination, reflecting the competitive nature of the PNP stream.

This draw marks the fourth of the year, following two Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws and a previous PNP draw earlier in January. As of now, IRCC has issued a total of 6,276 ITAs through the Express Entry system in 2025.

Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025:

Date	Draw Type	Number of ITAs	Cut-off CRS score
February 4	Provincial Nominee Program	455	802
January 23	Canadian Experience Class	4,000	527
January 8	Canadian Experience Class	1,350	542
January 7	Provincial Nominee Program	471	793

The consistent focus on PNP candidates in recent draws aligns with IRCC’s strategy to bolster regional immigration and address specific labor market needs across Canada’s provinces and territories. Candidates who receive provincial nominations are recognized for their potential to contribute significantly to the local economies and communities.

Since July 2024, IRCC has emphasized candidates who qualify for PNP, CEC, and category-based selection draws. This approach aligns with IRCC’s annual Immigration Levels Plan, which allocates admissions for candidates in Canada and those possessing relevant professional and language skills to meet the country’s economic and demographic goals. In 2025, the priority categories through Canada’s Express Entry system include healthcare and trades.

About Express Entry System

Express Entry is an online system used by the Canadian government to manage immigration applications from skilled workers. It oversees three main federal economic programs:

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC): For skilled workers with eligible Canadian work experience.

2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): For skilled workers with eligible foreign or Canadian work experience.

3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): For skilled workers qualified in a skilled trade.

Candidates interested in immigrating through Express Entry must first determine their eligibility under one of these programs. Eligible candidates can then create an online profile, providing information about their skills, work experience, language ability, education, and other personal details. Based on this information, candidates receive a CRS score, which ranks them within the Express Entry pool. Periodically, IRCC conducts draws from this pool, inviting the highest-ranking candidates to apply for permanent residency.

The Express Entry system is designed to facilitate the selection and processing of skilled workers’ applications in an efficient and transparent manner, contributing to Canada’s economic growth and labor market needs.