Maple News reports that starting March 5, 2025, the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) will reopen intake for two enhanced immigration streams aligned with Canada’s Express Entry system. These streams — the Employment in New Brunswick pathway and the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream (formerly referred to as the New Brunswick Interests pathway) — are key routes to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers committed to living and working in the province.
With this relaunch, the province has introduced significant changes designed to expand accessibility while aligning with its reduced 2025 federal nomination allocation. Notably, the minimum eligible age for candidates has been lowered from 22 to 19, a move aimed at attracting younger talent into New Brunswick’s labor market.
For candidates applying under the Employment in New Brunswick pathway, the eligibility requirements have been tightened. Applicants must now demonstrate at least 12 consecutive months of full-time work experience and meet enhanced residency criteria. This adjustment reflects the province’s focus on addressing labor gaps with candidates who already have established ties to the province.
Maple News confirms that the province has also excluded certain occupations from both pathways. Though the full list of ineligible jobs hasn’t been made public yet, applicants are advised to ensure their occupation is currently being accepted before submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Unlike previous rounds, the 2025 EOI process will not operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Instead, New Brunswick will assess EOIs based on in-demand labor needs and the strategic priorities of the province. This competitive selection model could favor candidates with strong language skills, relevant education, and work experience in high-need sectors.
New Brunswick’s 2025 nomination quota reflects a steep cut compared to previous years. The province received just 2,750 total nominations – 1,500 under the NBPNP and 1,250 through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). As provincial programs across Canada grapple with reduced allocations, targeted immigration strategies like New Brunswick’s are becoming increasingly selective.
According to Maple News, these changes reinforce the importance of meeting exact program criteria and tailoring EOIs to current labor market demands. Prospective immigrants interested in these programs are encouraged to stay updated through official provincial sources to maximize their chances under the new framework.