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Northwest Territories - PNP Program
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nova scotia provincial nominee program
Nova Scotia is one of the most beautiful provinces in Canada which offers a Beautiful and Perfect blend of scenic landscapes, rich history and modern lifestyle. It is located on the Atlantic coast and it is known for its picturesque lighthouses, friendly communities and a steadily growing economy. It’s a province that welcomes newcomers with open arms and offering them a peaceful life to live.
The Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is also known as the Nova Scotia Immigrant Nominee Program (NSNP). It is a popular pathway for those who dream of starting a new life here. This program helps the regional area attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, graduates and healthcare professionals to fill labour shortages and contribute to its growing economy.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything about how the provincial nominee program in Nova Scotia works. What are the Nova Scotia provincial nominee program requirements and how you can boost your chances of success. Whether you’re just starting your immigration journey or ready to submit your application, this guide is here to help you every step of the way.
Nova Scotia Immigration Streams
The Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) offers different immigration pathways for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, healthcare professionals and recent graduates. This program is designed to meet the regional area job demand while also inviting newcomers to settle and build a life in Nova Scotia.
Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry
Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities
Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Physicians
Skilled Worker Stream
Occupation In-Demand Stream
International Graduates In-Demand
Entrepreneur Stream
International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Physician Stream
nova scotia pnp express entry
The Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry stream is designed for people who already have at least 1 year of skilled work experience in Nova Scotia and want to apply for permanent residency in Canada. This is a part of the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and is connected to Canada’s Express Entry system which is one of the fastest ways to immigrate to Canada.
This stream is specifically for skilled workers:
- Who Have gained at least 1 year of full-time work experience in Nova Scotia within the past three years.
- who want to become permanent residents of Canada.
- who meet the criteria of Canada’s Express Entry system, which is a points-based system that ranks candidates based on factors like age, work experience, education and language skills.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply through the Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry stream, you need to meet the following requirements, which are:
- Work Experience: You must have worked for at least one year in Nova Scotia in a skilled occupation.
- Express Entry Profile: You must have an active profile in the Express Entry system. This means you need to create a profile through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). If Nova Scotia nominates you through this stream, you will get an extra 600 CRS points, which greatly increases your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
- Language Skills: You have to meet the minimum language requirements which are typically CLB 7 or higher for English or French (depending on your work and language tests). If you’re applying through the Federal Skilled Worker Program within Express Entry, then you’ll have to show proof of language proficiency.
- Intent to Live in Nova Scotia: You need to show that you want to become permanent residents of Canada. The province wants individuals who will contribute to its growth and community.
Benefits of the Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry
- Faster Processing: As this stream is linked to the Express Entry system. The biggest advantage of this is its processing time. it is generally faster than many other immigration pathways and you could get permanent residency in just 6 to 12 months.
- Increased Chances: If Nova Scotia Provincial nominates you through this stream. You will get an extra 600 CRS points, which really increases your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
- Work Experience Counts: If you’ve already worked in Nova Scotia, it means you’re familiar with the local culture and job market, making your transition to permanent residency smoother.
Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities
The Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities stream is another exciting pathway under the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), connected to Canada’s Express Entry system. This stream allows Nova Scotia to pick skilled workers directly from the federal Express Entry pool who match the province’s immediate labor needs.
Who is it for?
This stream is perfect for skilled workers who are already in the Express Entry system but don’t have a job offer in Nova Scotia. Instead of waiting for you to apply they can looks into the Express Entry pool and selects candidates who have the skills, experience or qualifications the province currently needs.
Eligibility Criteria
Valid Express Entry profile
Meet the work experience, education, and language requirements specified in the Letter of Interest
Submit a complete application within 30 days of receiving the Letter of Interest
Intention to live and work in Nova Scotia permanently
Benefits of the Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities Stream
- No job offer required: Unlike some other streams, you don’t need a job offer in this stream
- Targeted selections: Nova Scotia picks candidates whose skills are urgently needed and fulfil the labour market gap
- Extra CRS points: Once you’re nominated, you will get an extra 600 CRS points, which really increases your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Physicians
The Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Physicians stream is designed especially for doctors who are needed to help fill the demand gaps in the province’s healthcare system. Nova Scotia, like many parts of Canada, continues to face physician shortages, mostly in rural and small communities. That’s where this stream steps in—to make it easier for international physicians to live, work and settle permanently in Nova Scotia.
Who Can Apply?
This stream is aimed at physicians who are already in the federal Express Entry system and who have received a valid job offer from a healthcare employer in Nova Scotia. If you’re a doctor with the right qualifications and have a genuine interest in practicing medicine in Nova Scotia then this stream may be your fastest route to Canadian permanent residency.
Eligible Positions
The stream focuses on two main physician roles:
General Practitioners and Family Physicians (NOC 31102)
Specialist Physicians (NOC 31100)
Eligibility Criteria
Have a valid Express Entry profile.
Receive a Letter of Interest from Nova Scotia.
Have a full-time, permanent job offer from one of the following employers:
Nova Scotia Health Authority (NSHA)
IWK Health Centre-You must have a signed job offer from the Nova Scotia Health Authority or the IWK Health Centre for a position as a physician.
Meet licensing requirements to practice medicine in Nova Scotia.
Commit to live and work in Nova Scotia permanently.
Submit a complete application within 30 days of receiving the Letter of Interest.
Benefits of the Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Physicians Stream
- Fast-track to Permanent Residency: Once you’re nominated, you will get an extra 600 CRS points, which really increases your chances of getting an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
- Job Security: You can start with a confirmed job offer from a recognized healthcare employer.
Community Support: Nova Scotia offers great support for newcomers and healthcare workers. Community helps newcomers to get comfortable,making it easier to integrate into their new home. - Work-Life Balance: Enjoy a fulfilling career while living in one of Canada’s most scenic and peaceful regional area.
Skilled Worker Stream
The Skilled Worker Stream under the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). it’s designed for person who already have a job offer from an employer in Nova Scotia. This stream helps local employers fill job vacancies with skilled, semi-skilled or low-skilled workers when qualified Canadians or local worker are not sufficient to match the market demand requirements.
Who Can Apply?
This stream is ideal for foreign workers who have secured a valid and full-time job offer from a Nova Scotia employer and want to become a permanent residents of canada.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Skilled Worker Stream, you must:
Have a permanent, full-time job offer from a Nova Scotia employer.
Have at least one year of relevant work experience.
Meet the educational requirements for the position.
Demonstrate sufficient language ability:
CLB 5 for skilled positions (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3).
CLB 4 for semi-skilled and low-skilled positions (NOC TEER 4, 5).
Have legal status in your current country of residence.
Intend to live and work in Nova Scotia permanently.
Benefits of the Skilled Worker Stream
Employer Support: Your Nova Scotia employer is involved in your application process and this makes it more stable.
Pathway for Semi-Skilled Workers: Even individuals in occupations not usually considered “high-skilled” can qualify.
No Express Entry Requirement: You don’t need an Express Entry profile to apply.
Direct Path to Permanent Residency: Once nominated, you can apply directly for Canadian PR status.
Occupation In-Demand Stream
The Occupation In-Demand Stream under the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is designed to help fill specific labor shortages in the regional area. This stream targets occupations that are in high demand in Nova Scotia but may not have skilled local workers, so this program is used to fulfill market demand. If your job title is on Nova Scotia’s in-demand list, this stream can be a fantastic way for you to obtain permanent residency.
Who Can Apply?
This stream is for foreign workers who have a full-time, permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer in one of the occupations listed as “in-demand.” These positions typically require intermediate skills and are essential to Nova Scotia’s economy.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this stream, you must:
- Have a full-time or permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer in an occupation listed as in-demand.
- Have at least 1 year of relevant work experience in the occupation.
- Meet the educational requirements (at least a high school diploma).
- Meet the language requirements (Canadian Language Benchmark CLB 4 or higher).
- Show sufficient financial resources to settle in Nova Scotia.
- Show a genuine interest in living and working in Nova Scotia permanently.
Current In-Demand Occupations—Nova Scotia PNP Skilled Worker List
While the list may change based on labor needs, some of the common occupations include
- Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates
- Food and beverage servers
- Truck drivers (transport truck drivers)
- Construction laborers
- Heavy equipment operators
- Housekeepers and cleaning staff
Manufacturing and production laborers
International Graduates In-Demand
The International Graduates In-Demand stream is a great option for students who have recently completed their graduation from a recognized educational institution in and willing to start their work life in Nova Scotia. This stream helps graduates move from studying to becoming permanent residents while working and filling in-demand jobs across the province.
Who Can Apply?
If you’re an international student who has completed your studies in Nova Scotia and secured a job offer in one of the province’s in-demand occupations, then this stream is for you. It allows you to start your career and settle permanently in Nova Scotia.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this stream, you must:
- Have completed at least a 1-year program at a recognized Nova Scotia institution.
- Have a permanent job offer in a qualified occupation.
- Meet the minimum language requirement (usually CLB 5).
- Show that you have enough financial resources to settle in Nova Scotia.
- Show a strong interest in living and working in Nova Scotia permanently.
Benefits of the International Graduates In-Demand Stream
- Smooth transition: This stream helps recent graduates stay in Nova Scotia after their studies.
- No work experience required: In this stream, prior work experience isn’t mandatory.
- Quick path to PR: Once nominated, your permanent residency application process becomes much faster.
- Retain talent locally: Nova Scotia benefits from keeping skilled graduates who are already familiar with the province.
Entrepreneur Stream
The Entrepreneur Stream is designed for experienced business owners or senior managers who want to invest in and actively manage a business in Nova Scotia. It’s an excellent pathway for those who dream of starting or buying a business while building a new life in one of the most beautiful provinces of Canada.
Who Can Apply?
If you have business ownership or management experience and have enough personal funds to invest and are ready to live and work in Nova Scotia, this stream could be your ideal opportunity.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Entrepreneur Stream:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- You must have a personal net worth of at least CAD $600,000*.
- You must be willing to invest at least CAD $150,000* of your own money to start or purchase a business.
- You must have at least 3 years of experience actively managing or owning a business or 5 years of experience in a senior management role.
- You must meet language requirements (CLB 5 or higher in English or French).
- You have to show a genuine intention to settle in Nova Scotia permanently.
- You must have created at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Types of Businesses That May Qualify
- Retail stores
- Restaurants and cafes
- Manufacturing or production companies
- Tourism and hospitality businesses
- IT and tech companies
- Professional services
International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
The International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream is designed for recent graduates from Nova Scotia institutions who have already started and successfully operated a business in the regional area. It allows these graduates to move from a temporary work permit to permanent residency and rewards their contribution to Nova Scotia’s economy.
Who Can Apply?
This stream is for international students who have completed their studies in Nova Scotia, started their own business and actively managed it for at least 1 year.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this stream:
- You must be at least 21 years old.
- You must have completed at least 2 academic years of full-time study at a recognized Nova Scotia university or college.
- You must have owned and actively managed a Nova Scotia business for at least 1 continuous year.
- You must hold a valid post-graduation work permit.
- You must meet language requirements (minimum CLB 7 in English or French).
- Show an intention to live permanently in Nova Scotia.
Business Requirements
- The business must be actively operating in Nova Scotia.
- You must own at least 33.3% (one-third) of the business.
- The business must be for-profit and generate revenue through active, ongoing operations.
You must create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Physician Stream
The Physician Stream under the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and It’s designed specifically to help the regional to recruit doctors who have secured job offers in Nova Scotia’s healthcare system. Like many parts of Canada, Nova Scotia faces a shortage of qualified physicians mostly in rural and small communities. This stream offers an excellent pathway to permanent residency for international doctors.
Who Can Apply?
If you’re a general practitioner, family physician, or specialist physician with a confirmed job offer from one of Nova Scotia’s healthcare employers, this stream could be your easiest route to living and working permanently in Nova Scotia.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Physician Stream:
- You must have a permanent job offer as a general practitioner, family physician, or specialist physician.
- You must get the job offer from either NSHA or IWK Health Centre.
- You must meet licensing eligibility to practice medicine in Nova Scotia (you must be eligible for licensing through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia).
- You must show the intention to live and work permanently in Nova Scotia.
- You must provide a signed Return of Service Agreement, committing you to work in Nova Scotia for a certain period.
What are "Nova Scotia PNP New Rules"?
The Physician Stream under the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is designed specifically to help the regionrecruit doctors who have secured job offers in Nova Scotia’s healthcare system. Like many parts of Canada, Nova Scotia faces a shortage of qualified physicians mostly in rural and small communities. This stream offers an excellent pathway to permanent residency for international doctors.
Who Can Apply?
If you’re a general practitioner, family physician, or specialist physician with a confirmed job offer from one of Nova Scotia’s healthcare employers, this stream could be your easiest route to living and working permanently in Nova Scotia.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Physician Stream:
- You must have a permanent job offer as a general practitioner, family physician, or specialist physician.
- You must get the job offer from either NSHA or IWK Health Centre.
- You must meet licensing eligibility to practice medicine in Nova Scotia (you must be eligible for licensing through the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia).
- You must show the intention to live and work permanently in Nova Scotia.
- You must provide a signed Return of Service Agreement, committing you to work in Nova Scotia for a certain period.
If you’re not sure about whether you qualify or how to apply, you can get help from a GIEC GLOBAL UK consultant. Our expert team of canadian immigration lawyers in uk will guide you through the process and help with document preparation, which is commonly one of the biggest challenges.
requirements for pnp nova scotia
| Stream | Target Group | Key Requirements | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry | Skilled workers with at least 1 year of work experience in Nova Scotia | Express Entry profile, work experience, language proficiency, education | Fast-track via Express Entry, settled work experience in Nova Scotia |
| Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities | Express Entry candidates with targeted skills | Letter of Interest from Nova Scotia, targeted occupations, language proficiency, education | No job offer required, targeted selection, 600 CRS points boost |
| Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Physicians | Physicians registered in Express Entry with job offers | Express Entry profile, job offer from NSHA or IWK, proper licensing | Streamlined for physicians, high demand, long-term job security |
| Skilled Worker Stream | Foreign workers holding a job offer | Full-time job offer, relevant work experience, education, language skills | Supports semi-skilled and skilled workers, no Express Entry requirement |
| Occupation In-Demand Stream | Foreign workers in occupations highly needed by Nova Scotia | Job offer in-demand occupation, relevant work experience, language proficiency | Easier pathway for specific jobs, simple application process |
| International Graduates In-Demand | Recent Nova Scotia graduates with job offers | Graduated in Nova Scotia, valid job offer in-demand field, language proficiency | Seamless transition from student status to permanent residency, no prior work experience needed |
| Entrepreneur Stream | Experienced business owners or senior managers | Minimum CAD $600,000 net worth, invest CAD $150,000, business management experience | Opportunity to start or acquire a business, family-friendly, quick PR pathway |
| International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream | Nova Scotia graduates who operate a business | Minimum 2-year study in NS, business operated for 1 year, language proficiency | Direct route from graduation to PR without major investment |
| Physician Stream | Physicians with provincial job offers (non-Express Entry) | Job offer from NSHA/IWK, meet licensing standards | Simplified immigration process for healthcare professionals, strong employer backing |
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frequently asked questions
You can learn more from our asked questions
Nova Scotia’s PNP allocation was cut in half in the 2025–2027 immigration plan—down to around 1,365 provincial nominations—and the Accommodation & Food Services sector was temporarily paused in multiple streams to manage backlogs
Enhanced streams like Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry and Labour Market Priorities typically take 3 to 6 months after nomination Base streams like Skilled Worker or Occupation in Demand generally take 6 to 12 months
No—this stream requires a valid job offer in one of the province’s high‑demand occupations (like nurse aides or truck drivers). You’ll also need at least one year of related work experience and a CLB 4 language score
No—this stream requires a valid job offer in one of the province’s high‑demand occupations (like nurse aides or truck drivers). You’ll also need at least one year of related work experience and a CLB 4 language score
You don’t need an Express Entry profile, but you do need a full-time job offer from either the Nova Scotia Health Authority or IWK Health Centre—plus licensing eligibility. The Labour Market Priorities for Physicians stream requires Express Entry, but the Physician Stream does not
Yes. In early 2025, Nova Scotia launched the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP). It helps smaller communities attract skilled workers through local job offers, CLB 4–6 language level, and proof of settlement funds
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