Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is a provincial immigration program designed to attract skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs to Nova Scotia, a province known for its stunning landscapes and thriving economy. The NSNP includes various streams, including the Express Entry Stream, which is aligned with Canada’s Express Entry system, allowing Nova Scotia to select candidates who meet the province’s labour market needs. The Skilled Worker Stream targets individuals with a valid job offer in Nova Scotia, while the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Stream is for candidates who have work experience in high-demand occupations. The International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream supports international graduates from Nova Scotia post-secondary institutions who wish to start or purchase a business in the province. The Entrepreneur Stream is aimed at experienced business owners or managers who want to invest in a business in Nova Scotia. Eligibility requirements vary by stream but typically include factors like job offers, work experience, education, language proficiency, and the intent to live in Nova Scotia. With a provincial nomination from the NSNP, candidates gain additional points in the Express Entry system, enhancing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. The NSNP offers a fast pathway to permanent residency while granting access to Nova Scotia’s diverse economy, which includes sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology.
About
The Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Stream is designed for highly skilled individuals who wish to immigrate to Nova Scotia and meet the province's labor market needs. This stream is aligned with Canada's Express Entry system, allowing for expedited processing of applications. Candidates must have a valid job offer in a high-demand occupation and meet specific eligibility criteria, including educational qualifications, work experience, and language proficiency. The application process involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the NSNP portal, after which selected candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and can submit a full application for provincial nomination.
Eligibility
- Express Entry Profile
- Must have an active Express Entry profile with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Job Offer
- A valid job offer from a Nova Scotia employer is required.
- Work Experience
- At least one year of continuous paid work experience in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations.
- Language Proficiency
- Minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) Level 7 in English or French.
- Education
- Minimum of a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent.
- Age
- Generally, between 21 and 55 years at the time of application; exceptions may apply in certain cases.
How to Apply
To apply for the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Stream, candidates must first create a profile in the Express Entry system managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If eligible, applicants are selected from the Express Entry pool and invited by Nova Scotia to apply for a provincial nomination. After receiving the provincial nomination, applicants can apply for permanent residency through the federal Express Entry system. The stream is intended for candidates who meet the skills and experience requirements needed in Nova Scotia's labor market. Applicants must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and provide accurate documentation when submitting their application.
Documents Required:
- Express Entry Profile Number and Job Seeker Validation Code
- Proof of active profile in the IRCC Express Entry system.
- Educational Credentials Assessment (ECA)
- Assessment report verifying the Canadian equivalency of foreign education.
- Language Test Results
- Valid results demonstrating CLB Level 7 proficiency.
- Work Experience Documents
- Employment records or reference letters verifying work experience.
- Job Offer Letter
- Confirmation of employment from a Nova Scotia employer.
- Proof of Funds
- Evidence of sufficient funds to support settlement in Nova Scotia.
Application Fee
The application fee for the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Stream is CAD 300, which must be paid at the time of submission. This fee is non-refundable, even if the application is rejected. Additional fees will apply once the applicant receives the provincial nomination and submits their permanent residency application to IRCC. It's important to check the latest fee information on the official Nova Scotia immigration website, as fees may change over time. Applicants should be prepared for potential additional costs related to medical exams, police checks, and language testing.
Processing Time
The processing time for the Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Stream is typically between 6 to 12 months, depending on factors such as the volume of applications and the completeness of the submitted documentation. After receiving a provincial nomination, candidates proceed to the federal Express Entry system, where additional processing time of 6 to 8 months is required. The total time for processing will vary depending on how quickly the federal authorities process the permanent residency application after nomination. Keeping the application documents up to date and clear can help minimize delays.
Advantages
The Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry Stream provides a streamlined pathway for skilled workers to obtain permanent residency in Canada. Being nominated by Nova Scotia increases a candidate's chances of being selected for permanent residency through the federal Express Entry system. This program allows candidates to settle in a province known for its rich culture, coastal beauty, and growing economy. The streamlined process minimizes wait times compared to other immigration pathways, offering quicker access to permanent residency. Additionally, applicants can benefit from the province’s strong healthcare system, educational opportunities, and high standard of living.