Maple News reports that New Brunswick has issued a total of 1,040 invitations through its Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) from May 5 to June 17, 2025. The province conducted multiple draws across its Skilled Worker and Express Entry streams, with a focused effort to address critical labour shortages in key sectors such as healthcare, education, and construction.
These draws highlight New Brunswick’s strategy of targeting candidates with strong ties to the province, including international graduates, workers with local experience, and those nearing the expiration of their work permits. By doing so, the province aims to retain skilled talent already contributing to the economy.
On June 17, the Skilled Worker stream under the Priority Occupations pathway issued 12 invitations, exclusively targeting healthcare professionals—an ongoing priority amid persistent shortages in hospitals and eldercare settings.
Meanwhile, a draw held across June 16 and 17 under the New Brunswick Graduates stream issued 274 invitations across all sectors except for chefs and material handlers. This draw was limited to candidates whose work permits are set to expire in 2025 or early 2026, underscoring the province’s focus on individuals already integrated into the workforce.
The June 16 Express Entry draw issued 297 invitations under the Employment in New Brunswick pathway. Candidates were required to have been working full-time for a New Brunswick employer for at least 12 consecutive months, marking a clear preference for long-term contributors to the provincial economy.
Also on June 16, 25 invitations were issued through the New Brunswick Experience pathway. Eligible candidates were again restricted to those nearing the end of their work authorization, with occupations selected from healthcare, education, and the skilled trades.
Earlier, on May 5, one of the most significant draws of the year saw 432 invitations distributed through both the New Brunswick Experience and New Brunswick Graduates streams. This draw prioritized candidates in healthcare, education, and construction trades—a consistent focus for the province in recent years.
New Brunswick’s purposeful and data-driven approach to immigration continues to reinforce its efforts to fill essential labour gaps and retain talent with ties to the region. With a growing need in critical sectors, these draws serve as a timely opportunity for experienced and educated individuals seeking permanent residency in Canada through a provincial nomination.
As the provincial labour market evolves, New Brunswick remains committed to using its nominee programs strategically—favoring candidates who are already established in the province or working in high-demand occupations.