Nova Scotia has announced a major change in how it selects candidates for permanent residency. As of November 28, all submissions to the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program (NSPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) will now be treated as Expressions of Interest (EOIs), according to Maple News.
This transition aligns Nova Scotia’s process with most other provinces in Canada and brings it closer to the federal Express Entry system. Unlike the previous model, where full applications were reviewed upon submission, the new EOI process places all applications into a centralized pool. The province will then conduct periodic draws to select candidates for processing based on current workforce and economic needs.
Importantly, officials have clarified that simply submitting an application or holding a case ID does not guarantee processing. Instead, only those chosen from the EOI pool will move on to complete the immigration process.
The new model affects both individuals applying through the NSPNP and employers seeking endorsements under the AIP. In both cases, full applications are still required, but these will serve as EOIs rather than being immediately assessed.
Nova Scotia’s focus under this new approach is to attract candidates who align with high-priority sectors. At launch, the province has identified key industries it aims to support, including healthcare, construction, skilled trades, STEM, natural resources, and manufacturing. These priorities may be updated over time to reflect changing economic demands.
By adopting this model, Nova Scotia aims to enhance its ability to respond to real-time labour shortages and strategically manage its immigration intake. It also increases transparency by aligning more closely with national immigration strategies.
The change represents a significant shift for applicants, and prospective immigrants are advised to carefully assess their eligibility and alignment with provincial needs before submitting their applications.
As Nova Scotia increases its focus on strategic immigration, Maple News will continue to provide updates and insights into how these changes are impacting newcomers and employers across the province.