Canada Immigration Update: New Brunswick Reopens Pathways for Skilled Workers

New Brunswick has officially reopened its immigration programs after temporarily pausing some pathways in 2024. This decision comes in response to a reduction in the province’s immigrant nomination allocations for 2025. The provincial government has announced that it will gradually resume immigration pathways in a controlled manner.

New Brunswick offers several immigration pathways for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and graduates. The main programs include:

• New Brunswick Express Entry Stream

  
  

• New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream

• New Brunswick Private Career College Graduate Pilot Program

• New Brunswick Business Immigration Stream

  
  

• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

• New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot

Each stream has specific eligibility requirements and selection criteria, making it essential for applicants to choose the pathway that aligns with their qualifications and career goals.

Before submitting an application, candidates must ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and gather the necessary documents for both Immigration New Brunswick (ImmigrationNB) and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It is important to note that IRCC makes the final decision on all applications. Candidates must apply for permanent residence approval before their New Brunswick nomination expires.

For comprehensive details on required documents for each stream, visit the official Government of New Brunswick website.

On February 5, 2025, the provincial government issued a statement highlighting a significant reduction in invitation allocations. This decrease is expected to impact New Brunswick’s ability to support economic growth and attract talent effectively.

Key Allocation Changes:

• 2024 Nomination Allocations: 5,000

• 2025 Nomination Allocations: 2,750

With fewer invitations available, the province is taking a strategic approach to its immigration programs, ensuring that nominations are prioritized for in-demand skilled workers.

The 2,750 available nomination spaces have been distributed between New Brunswick’s two primary immigration programs:

• New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP): 1,500 nominations

• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): 1,250 nominations

This allocation strategy reflects New Brunswick’s commitment to addressing labor shortages while optimizing the effectiveness of its immigration policies.

The provincial government has raised concerns with the federal government regarding the reduced nomination allocations and is actively engaged in discussions to seek improvements. Further updates will be provided as new information emerges.

Despite the challenges posed by the reduced invitations, New Brunswick remains dedicated to welcoming skilled workers and fostering economic growth through immigration. Prospective applicants are encouraged to stay informed and explore their options through official government channels.