Maple News reports that Newfoundland and Labrador has conducted its second round of immigration invitations under its recently launched Expression of Interest (EOI) system. As part of a new application intake strategy introduced on February 19, 2025, the province is now using the EOI system to select candidates for both the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).
The latest draw, conducted on May 8, saw a total of 328 invitations to apply (ITAs) issued. Specifically, 281 candidates were invited through the NLPNP, while another 47 were selected under the AIP. This marks a continuation of the province’s efforts to streamline and modernize its immigration process through targeted selection.
This draw follows the first round held on April 3, 2025, where 256 invitations were extended. Together, these selections signal the province’s commitment to welcoming skilled newcomers, despite the challenges posed by reduced federal nomination allocations.
Like several other Canadian provinces, Newfoundland and Labrador saw its PNP allocation cut in half for 2025. However, through negotiations with the federal government, the province secured an additional 1,000 economic immigration spots, bringing its total allocation for the year to 2,525. This move is seen as a strategic response to support labor market needs and population growth targets.
The new EOI system, launched earlier this year, requires prospective immigrants to first create an account and submit a profile through the province’s online Immigration Accelerator portal. Candidates are then assessed and invited based on a range of eligibility criteria aligned with Newfoundland and Labrador’s economic priorities.
The transition to an EOI-based intake system reflects a broader trend among Canadian provinces to adopt more dynamic, data-driven approaches to managing immigration. By allowing the province to select high-potential applicants who closely match local labor demands, this system increases the efficiency and effectiveness of regional immigration.
Maple News will continue to monitor and report on provincial immigration developments as more draws are expected under Newfoundland and Labrador’s evolving immigration framework.