Your Chance to Move to Canada: New Brunswick Relaunches Immigration Programs
February 17, 2025
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Canada remains a top destination for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates seeking better opportunities and a high quality of life. One of the most promising Canadian provinces for newcomers is New Brunswick, a key part of Atlantic Canada. Recently, the province announced the reopening of its immigration programs after a temporary pause, providing fresh opportunities for individuals looking to move to Canada. However, significant changes have been introduced, including a reduction in the number of available nomination spaces.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about New Brunswick's immigration programs, the impact of the reduced allocations, and the best pathways to secure Canadian permanent residency through the province’s various immigration streams.
New Brunswick’s Immigration Program Relaunch
Jean-Claude D’Amours, acting minister of post-secondary education, training, and labour, and minister responsible for immigration announced on February 5, 2025, that the allocation would be divided between the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (1,500) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (1,250). Due to limited spaces, priority would be given to sectors like health, education, and construction trades, while other sectors would receive limited allocations. Some occupations would be restricted from participating.
Key Changes in New Brunswick’s Immigration Streams
The province has made important adjustments to its immigration pathways, which include reopening certain programs while keeping others paused. Below is a breakdown of what’s currently available.
New Brunswick Express Entry Stream
The New Brunswick Express Entry Streams set to reopen in the coming weeks under two key pathways:
- Employment in New Brunswick Pathway – Open to individuals with a valid job offer from a New Brunswick employer. Candidates must demonstrate their ability to contribute to the province’s economy and meet the required language and education qualifications.
- New Brunswick Interests Pathway – Targets candidates whose skills and experience align with the province's labor market needs. Applicants who have previously studied or worked in New Brunswick, or who have family connections in the province, may receive priority.
However, some occupations have been excluded from this stream, meaning individuals working in these roles will not be eligible for nomination. The excluded occupations include:
- 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)
Additionally, the New Brunswick Student Connection pathway will not be available in 2025.
New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream
Currently, New Brunswick is not accepting new Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for this program, as it has reached capacity. This program was designed to attract skilled workers who have an existing connection to the province, such as past residency or strong community ties. Candidates with experience in priority sectors may have a higher chance of selection once the stream reopens.
Furthermore, the “In-Person Exploratory Visit to New Brunswick” option, which was paused in November 2024, will remain unavailable throughout 2025. Previously, this option allowed prospective immigrants to visit the province to explore job and settlement opportunities before applying.
Private Career College Graduate Program
This pathway remains open for now but is scheduled to close by the autumn of 2025. It provides international graduates of designated private career colleges in New Brunswick with an opportunity to obtain permanent residency. To qualify, graduates must secure a full-time job offer from an eligible employer and demonstrate the ability to integrate into the province’s workforce.
New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream
This program has resumed and now features three distinct pathways:
- New Brunswick Work Experience Pathway – For candidates with recent work experience in the province. Eligible candidates must have at least one year of full-time work experience in an in-demand occupation and meet language and educational requirements.
- New Brunswick Graduates Pathway – Designed for international students who graduated from New Brunswick institutions. This pathway aims to retain skilled graduates by offering a streamlined process to obtain permanent residency. A valid job offer from an eligible employer is required.
- New Brunswick Priority Occupations Pathway – Focuses on individuals with experience in high-demand occupations, particularly in healthcare, construction, and education. Occupations such as registered nurses, early childhood educators, and skilled trades workers are among those prioritized.
New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream
Entrepreneurs looking to start or purchase a business in New Brunswick can now apply under this stream. However, to qualify, their business must have been operational for at least six months before applying. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate previous business management experience and meet minimum investment requirements.
This stream is ideal for individuals who wish to contribute to New Brunswick’s economy through innovation, job creation, and business development.
New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot
Applications for this employer-driven program are currently open. Candidates must have a valid job offer from a designated employer participating in the pilot project. This pathway is tailored to address labor shortages in industries such as manufacturing, forestry, and agriculture.
The Critical Worker Pilot provides additional support to newcomers by offering language training, skills development programs, and settlement assistance, making it an excellent option for workers who may need extra help adapting to life in New Brunswick.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The AIP continues to accept applications and remains a vital pathway for skilled workers seeking Canadian permanent residency in Atlantic Canada. This program requires a job offer from a designated employer in New Brunswick, as well as a commitment to settling in the province. Unlike other programs, the AIP provides enhanced settlement support, including mentorship programs and employment assistance services.
The AIP is particularly appealing to newcomers due to its fast processing times and employer-driven nature, ensuring that successful applicants have strong employment prospects upon arrival.
The Perks of Life in Canada’s East Coast Province
If you are considering a fresh start in Canada, New Brunswick offers a unique combination of affordability, career opportunities, and a high quality of life. Here’s why this Atlantic province might be the perfect place to call home.
Affordable Cost of Living
One of the biggest advantages of settling in New Brunswick is its affordability. Unlike larger metropolitan areas like Toronto or Vancouver, where housing costs can be sky-high, New Brunswick offers reasonably priced homes, lower transportation costs, and manageable daily expenses. Whether you’re renting or buying a home, your money stretches further, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle without financial strain.
Thriving Job Market
New Brunswick’s economy is growing, creating strong demand for skilled workers in key industries. Professionals in healthcare, information technology (IT), education, and manufacturing are particularly sought after. With government initiatives supporting workforce expansion, newcomers have excellent employment prospects, competitive salaries, and opportunities for career growth.
High Quality of Life
Life in New Brunswick comes with clean air, stunning natural landscapes, and a slower pace that allows for a better work-life balance. The province is home to breathtaking coastal views, national parks, and scenic trails, making it ideal for those who love the outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, kayaking, or simply relaxing in nature, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy.
Excellent Healthcare and Education
New Brunswick residents benefit from publicly funded healthcare, ensuring essential medical services are accessible and affordable. Additionally, the province boasts high-quality educational institutions, including top-rated universities and colleges like the University of New Brunswick (UNB) and Mount Allison University. Families moving to the province can also take advantage of strong primary and secondary school systems that provide quality education for children.
Welcoming and Inclusive Communities
New Brunswick is known for its friendly and tight-knit communities, making it easier for newcomers to integrate and feel at home. Many cities and towns have immigrant support networks, cultural associations, and local events designed to foster connections among residents. The province values diversity and inclusivity, creating an environment where people from all backgrounds feel welcomed.
Fast Immigration Processing
If you are eager to move to Canada quickly, New Brunswick’s immigration programs offer faster processing times compared to other provinces. Programs like the NBPNP and the AIP streamline the application process, allowing eligible candidates to obtain permanent residency faster and settle into their new lives sooner.
Strong Support for Newcomers
New Brunswick offers government-funded settlement services to help newcomers adjust smoothly. These services include:
- Language training programs to improve English and French proficiency
- Job search assistance to connect immigrants with employers
- Housing support to find affordable accommodation
- Cultural integration programs to ease the transition into Canadian life
With these resources in place, settling in New Brunswick becomes a seamless and positive experience for individuals and families alike.
Make Your Move to New Brunswick
The reopening of New Brunswick’s immigration programs presents an exciting opportunity for those looking to move to Canada. Despite the reduced nomination spaces, New Brunswick remains committed to attracting skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs who can contribute to the province’s economy and communities.
If you are interested in securing Canadian permanent residency through New Brunswick, now is the time to start preparing your application. By understanding the program updates, aligning your skills with the province’s labor market needs, and securing a job offer, you can increase your chances of success.
Are you ready to start your journey to New Brunswick, Canada? Stay updated with the latest immigration news, and take the first step towards your new life in Atlantic Canada today.
How Long Does it Take to Process a New Brunswick Immigration Application?
Processing times vary depending on the program. However, New Brunswick’s immigration programs, such as the NBPNP and AIP, are known for their faster processing times compared to other provinces.
Can I Apply to Multiple Immigration Programs at the Same Time?
Yes, you can apply to multiple immigration programs if you meet the eligibility criteria for each. However, ensure you carefully review the requirements and avoid submitting conflicting applications.