Maple News reports that the province of New Brunswick has officially paused Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through its Express Entry stream under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) after reaching its full allocation for 2024. The announcement was made on August 16, with the government citing that no new ITAs will be issued under this stream for the remainder of the year.
Although New Brunswick did not disclose the exact number of available ITAs for 2024, the province has confirmed that any applications fully submitted before August 16 will continue to be processed. Additionally, candidates who received an ITA prior to this date remain eligible to submit their complete nomination applications.
The New Brunswick Express Entry stream comprises three pathways: Employment Connection, Student Connection, and Priorities Connection. All applicants must be active in Canada’s federal Express Entry system through one of the three main economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, or the Federal Skilled Trades Program.
– The Employment Connection targets individuals currently working in New Brunswick or those with a valid job offer and six months of residency in the province.
– The Student Connection is designed for international graduates of designated New Brunswick institutions who are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
– The Priorities Connection allows candidates to be selected based on specific skills or experience tied to provincial labor market needs.
New Brunswick has experienced a notable surge in immigration over the past decade. According to the 2021 Census, 5.8% of the province’s population were permanent residents, nearly doubling from 2011 figures. This growth highlights the increasing attractiveness of the province as a destination for skilled workers and students alike.
Despite the pause in Express Entry ITAs, other immigration pathways through New Brunswick’s PNP remain open. Candidates are encouraged to explore various options based on their unique qualifications and circumstances.
Maple News will continue to monitor updates from the province and provide timely information on new openings and changes to New Brunswick’s immigration programs.