Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) – Your Pathway to Canadian Immigration
Nova Scotia, one of Canada’s most picturesque provinces, is located on the country’s east coast in the Maritimes region. Known for its stunning coastline, vibrant culture, and high quality of life, Nova Scotia offers diverse immigration pathways for individuals and families looking to build a future in Canada.
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is the province’s immigration program that enables it to nominate individuals who have the skills and experience needed in the local labour market. If you’re interested in settling in Nova Scotia permanently, this program may be your ideal route.
NSNP Immigration Streams
Nova Scotia offers a range of enhanced and base immigration streams. Enhanced streams are aligned with the federal Express Entry system, while base streams operate independently.
Enhanced Streams (Linked to Express Entry)
If you are nominated under one of these streams, you receive 600 additional CRS points, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry
Job Offer Required:
Processing Time: ~3 months
Key Requirements:
At least 1 year of full-time paid work in Nova Scotia in the past 3 years
CLB 7 (NOC 0 & A), CLB 5 (NOC B)
Valid Express Entry profile
Labour Market Priorities Stream
Job Offer Required:
Processing Time: ~3 months
Key Requirements:
Valid Express Entry profile
Receive a Letter of Interest from Nova Scotia
Meet draw-specific eligibility criteria
Have settlement funds
Labour Market Priorities for Physicians
Job Offer Required: (from NS Health Authority or IWK Health Centre)
Processing Time: ~3 months
Key Requirements:
Valid Express Entry profile
NOC 3111 or 3112
Commitment to stay 2 years in Nova Scotia
Base Streams (Apply Directly to NSOI)
These streams are not linked to Express Entry and involve a direct application to Nova Scotia Office of Immigration (NSOI).
Skilled Worker Stream
Job Offer Required:
Processing Time: ~3 months
Key Requirements:
Full-time permanent job offer
1 year of related work experience
CLB 5 (NOC 0, A, B); CLB 4 (NOC C, D)
Occupation In-Demand Stream
Job Offer Required:
Processing Time: ~3 months
In-Demand Occupations Include:
Nurse aides (NOC 3413)
Food counter attendants (NOC 6711)
Transport truck drivers (NOC 7511)
Construction laborers (NOC 7611)
International Graduates In-Demand Stream
Job Offer Required: ✅
Processing Time: ~3 months
Eligible Occupations:
Nurse aides (NOC 3413)
Early childhood educators (NOC 4214)
Education Requirements:
Completion of at least a 30-week program in Nova Scotia in the past 3 years
Entrepreneur Stream
Job Offer Required:
Processing Time: ~3 months
Key Requirements:
Net worth of CAD $600,000
Minimum investment of CAD $150,000
Minimum 3 years of business ownership or 5 years in a senior role
CLB 5
International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
Job Offer Required:
Processing Time: ~3 months
Key Requirements:
At least 1 year of business ownership experience in NS
Nova Scotia post-secondary diploma (min. 2 years)
CLB 7
Valid Post-Graduation Work Permit
Physician Stream
Job Offer Required: (Approved opportunity with NS Health Authority or IWK)
Processing Time: ~3 months
Special Benefit:
Eligible for a Letter of Support in place of an LMIA to apply for a work permit while waiting for PR
Why Choose Nova Scotia?
Low cost of living and high quality of life
Safe and welcoming communities
Beautiful natural surroundings and oceanfront lifestyle
Strong support for immigrants through provincial programs and services
Start Your Nova Scotia Immigration Journey Today
Whether you're a skilled worker, recent graduate, entrepreneur, or physician, Nova Scotia offers multiple tailored pathways to permanent residency. Our licensed immigration professionals can guide you every step of the way — from checking your eligibility to preparing a strong application.
Contact us today to find the right NSNP stream for your profile and get expert help with your application!
