Canada remains a top destination for immigrants seeking a better future, and New Brunswick has now updated its Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) to improve accessibility for skilled workers. As of March 5, 2025, the province has introduced two enhanced Express Entry-aligned pathways: the Employment in New Brunswick and New Brunswick Interests streams. These updates come with revised eligibility criteria, including a lower minimum age requirement of 19 and stricter residency mandates.
New Brunswick Express Entry Stream: Key Changes
New Brunswick’s Express Entry stream now offers two distinct pathways under the enhanced NBPNP:
- Employment in New Brunswick Pathway
- Candidates must have been living and working full-time in New Brunswick for at least 12 consecutive months.
- The occupation must fall under TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC).
- New Brunswick Interests Pathway
- Candidates must receive a letter of interest in their federal Express Entry profile.
These updates aim to streamline the selection process and ensure that nominees align with the province’s labor market needs. However, some occupations are no longer eligible, including administrative assistants, food service supervisors, and retail managers.
Eligibility and Application Process
To qualify for either pathway, applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Immigration New Brunswick (INB) portal. Unlike a first-come, first-served basis, EOIs are pooled and reviewed periodically. Selected individuals will then receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), with the first round of draws beginning in April 2025.
Key Requirements for Applicants
- Must meet the specific eligibility criteria for the chosen pathway.
- Must submit an EOI and receive an ITA before proceeding with the full application.
- Must ensure compliance with new residency requirements before applying.
Post-Nomination Benefits
Successful nominees will receive a notification in their Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) account. Accepting the nomination grants an additional 600 points to their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, significantly boosting their chances of securing permanent residency in Canada.
For those who do not meet the updated NBPNP criteria, alternative pathways such as the New Brunswick Skilled Worker stream, the New Brunswick Strategic Initiative for Francophones, or the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) remain viable options. New Brunswick’s revised immigration pathways under the Express Entry system present exciting opportunities for skilled workers.
However, with a reduced 2025 immigrant allocation of 2,750—split between NBPNP (1,500) and AIP (1,250)—applicants must carefully assess their eligibility before applying. As the province refines its selection process, staying informed about program updates is crucial for prospective immigrants aiming to build their future in New Brunswick.
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