Nova Scotia, one of Canada’s most scenic provinces, provides a straightforward route to permanent residency through its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is a preferred option for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates seeking to establish themselves in Canada.
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is a provincial immigration program designed to attract skilled individuals and entrepreneurs to meet the province’s labor market and economic needs. Successful applicants receive a provincial nomination, which significantly boosts their chances of obtaining Canadian permanent residency.
Nova Scotia PNP 2025: Key Pathways
Nova Scotia provides multiple immigration pathways tailored to different applicants. Below are the primary streams available in 2025:
1. Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry
Aligned with the federal Express Entry system, this stream targets skilled workers in high-demand occupations.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must have an active Express Entry profile.
- Relevant work experience in a targeted occupation.
- Meet language proficiency requirements (CLB 7 or higher).
Application Process:
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Nova Scotia Immigration Portal.
2. Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry
This stream is designed for skilled individuals who have at least one year of work experience in Nova Scotia.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Minimum of 12 months of skilled work experience in the province.
- Active Express Entry profile.
- Language proficiency: CLB 7 for NOC 0/A and CLB 5 for NOC B.
3. Labour Market Priorities
A flexible stream targeting candidates with specific skills or qualifications required in Nova Scotia, such as healthcare professionals and educators.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must receive a Letter of Interest (LOI) from Nova Scotia via Express Entry.
- Meet the specific criteria outlined in the LOI.
4. Entrepreneur Stream
For experienced business owners or senior managers looking to establish or purchase a business in Nova Scotia.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Minimum net worth of CAD 600,000.
- Minimum investment of CAD 150,000 in a Nova Scotia business.
- At least three years of business ownership or five years of senior management experience.
5. International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Designed for international graduates from Nova Scotia universities who wish to start or run a business in the province.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Completion of a full-time program at a Nova Scotia post-secondary institution.
- Ownership and management of a business in Nova Scotia for at least one year.
Benefits of the Nova Scotia PNP
✅ Fast-Track Permanent Residency: A provincial nomination grants 600 additional CRS points, ensuring an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for PR.
✅ Lower CRS Score Requirements: Nova Scotia often accepts candidates with lower CRS scores than federal draws.
✅ Supportive Community: The province offers a welcoming environment and high quality of life.
Application Process for Nova Scotia PNP 2025
- Check Your Eligibility: Determine the best stream based on your qualifications.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Apply via the Nova Scotia Immigration Portal.
- Receive a Nomination: If selected, you will be granted a provincial nomination.
- Apply for Permanent Residency: Use your nomination to apply through the federal Express Entry system.
- Complete Medical and Security Checks: Ensure compliance with health and background requirements.