Maple News reports that New Brunswick remained firmly committed to its immigration goals in 2020, even amid the unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to provincial data, New Brunswick issued 2,020 nominations through its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in 2020—nearly identical to the 2,022 nominations granted the previous year. This consistency highlights the province’s ongoing dedication to attracting skilled newcomers despite serious global travel restrictions and federal processing delays.
However, despite steady nomination numbers, the number of new permanent residents landing in New Brunswick was significantly lower. Only 2,740 immigrants arrived as of November 30, 2020, compared to a record 6,000 in 2019. Travel bans, mandatory quarantines, and reduced international mobility were largely to blame for the shortfall, as noted by the New Brunswick Multicultural Council (NBMC).
Moncef Lakouas, President of NBMC, emphasized that immigration remains vital to addressing critical labour shortages. “While sectors like tourism had setbacks, industries such as healthcare and logistics continue to need skilled workers,” said Lakouas. He also praised local communities and employers for supporting newcomers through rigorous public health measures, including quarantine plans and grassroots welcome efforts.
Looking ahead, the province has set ambitious targets to welcome approximately 7,500 newcomers annually by 2024. A key part of this strategy includes increasing the share of French-speaking immigrants, reflecting New Brunswick’s unique status as Canada’s only officially bilingual province. By 2024, the province aims for Francophones to comprise one-third of all new arrivals.
“Even in a tough year, employers across our province are still eager to expand their labour force,” said Ginette Gautreau, Interim Executive Director of the NBMC. “Now more than ever, immigration is essential to our economic recovery.”
For those interested in moving to New Brunswick, there are two main economic pathways: the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (soon transitioning to the Atlantic Immigration Program). The NBPNP includes four streams tailored to different types of applicants, such as skilled workers with job offers, recent graduates ready to start businesses, and established entrepreneurs seeking new ventures.
As one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces, alongside Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador, New Brunswick offers a welcoming environment and streamlined immigration options for newcomers ready to contribute to its growing economy.