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New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Program

The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP) is an innovative, employer-driven initiative launched by the Government of New Brunswick on November 7, 2022, designed to address key labour shortages in the province. It provides a direct pathway to permanent residency for skilled foreign workers who are ready to contribute meaningfully to New Brunswick’s economy and communities.

The Critical Worker Pilot operates as an employer-driven stream, emphasizing targeted recruitment for skilled workers. Individuals interested in this program cannot apply directly, candidate applications are made exclusively through participating employers, who play a central role in the process.

Eligible Occupations and Sectors

The pilot is open to individuals working in high-demand sectors including:

  • Manufacturing
  • Fisheries and aquaculture
  • Food production and processing
  • Forestry
  • Farming and agriculture
  • Healthcare

To be eligible for the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Genuine intention to reside permanently in New Brunswick
  • Valid job offer from a NBCWP participating employer in an eligible occupation
  • At least 1,560 hours (approximately one year) of full-time work experience in a relevant occupation within the last five years
  • Minimum language proficiency as specified by stream
  • Actions demonstrating settlement intent: current employment in the province, length of residence, community engagement, financial self-sufficiency
  • Connections to the province through work, study, family, or other relationships

For Employers, the Following Criteria Apply

  • Completion and signing of the Employer Information Form (NBCWP-004)
  • Payment of a federal compliance fee and submission of an employment offer form through the IRCC Employer Portal
  • Meeting additional requirements in case of business expansion
  • Commitment to honest recruitment of foreign workers

Program Intake and Categories in New Brunswick

The New Brunswick Critical Worker Program offers a dynamic pathway to Canadian permanent residency by focusing on three distinct categories tailored to address specific labor shortages.

 1. Healthcare Worker Category

 The Healthcare Worker Category within the program is dedicated to addressing the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the healthcare sector. This category acknowledges the critical role healthcare workers play in maintaining the well-being of New Brunswick’s residents.

The professionals must meet the following requirements:

  • Valid job offer from a healthcare facility or organization in New Brunswick.
  • Commitment to supporting New Brunswick’s healthcare system.

 2. Truck Driver Category

The Truck Driver Category recognizes the significance of efficient transportation in the economic growth of New Brunswick. This category seeks to address the persistent need for professional truck drivers in the province. By attracting skilled truck drivers, New Brunswick aims to enhance its transportation and logistics sector.

Candidates must have:

  • Valid job offer from a New Brunswick-based trucking company.
  • Willingness to contribute to the transportation and logistics sector in New Brunswick.

 3. Food and Beverage Processing Worker Category

The Food and Beverage Processing Worker Category under the NBCWP recognizes the importance of the food and beverage industry in the province’s economic landscape. It aims to bridge the labor gap in this sector by attracting skilled individuals who can contribute to the production, processing, and packaging of food and beverages

Candidates are required to have:

  • Valid job offer from a New Brunswick-based food and beverage processing company.
  • Dedication to strengthening New Brunswick’s food and beverage industry.

It’s essential to note that while the program categories have specific eligibility criteria, our team at ImmigCanada is here to guide and assist candidates and employers at every step, ensuring a seamless and successful application process. Contact us today to explore!