After months of waiting, New Brunswick has officially reopened its immigration streams under the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP).
This reopening follows a significant reduction in federal immigration allocations, which limits the province’s nomination spaces to 2,750 for 2025—1,500 under the NBPNP and 1,250 under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).
With these restrictions in place, New Brunswick is prioritizing key sectors such as health, education, and construction, while limiting access for workers in other fields. If you’re considering immigrating to New Brunswick, here’s a detailed breakdown of the latest updates, eligibility requirements, and future prospects.
NBPNP Streams: Latest Updates
The table below outlines the current status of each New Brunswick immigration stream:
| Stream | Status | Details |
|---|---|---|
| New Brunswick Express Entry | Opening soon | Will accept Expressions of Interest (EOIs) under the Employment in New Brunswick and New Brunswick Interests pathways. |
| New Brunswick Strategic Initiative | Not accepting new EOIs | The stream has reached capacity and is not seeking new applications. |
| Private Career College Graduate Program | Accepting EOIs | This program will remain open until Autumn 2025. |
| New Brunswick Skilled Worker | Accepting EOIs | Now split into three pathways. |
| New Brunswick Business Immigration | Accepting EOIs | Open to applicants with businesses running for at least six months. |
| New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot | Accepting applications | No new restrictions. |
| Atlantic Immigration Program | Accepting applications | No changes. |
Let’s explore key changes and selection criteria for specific programs.
New Brunswick Express Entry Stream
This popular program will begin accepting EOIs in the coming weeks under two pathways:
- Employment in New Brunswick Pathway
- New Brunswick Interests Pathway
However, certain occupations are currently not eligible under this stream:
- Accounting technicians and bookkeepers (NOC 12200)
- Administrative assistants (NOC 13110)
- Restaurant and food service managers (NOC 60030)
- Food service supervisors (NOC 62020)
- Cooks (NOC 63200)
- Bakers (NOC 63202)
The New Brunswick Student Connection under this stream will not return in 2025.
New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream: Now Three Pathways
The Skilled Worker Stream has been divided into three separate pathways, each with distinct criteria:
| Pathway | Eligibility Requirements |
| New Brunswick Work Experience | – Must have worked full-time, non-seasonal for an eligible NB employer in the last 6 months.
– Must have lived in New Brunswick in the past 6 months. |
| New Brunswick Graduates | – Must have completed a PGWP-eligible program at a New Brunswick DLI.
– Must have a full-time, non-seasonal job or job offer. |
| New Brunswick Priority Occupations | – Must have a job offer from an NB employer through a government-led recruitment mission.
– Must be in a priority NOC occupation. – Must have at least one year of relevant experience. |
Additionally, some occupations NBPNP will not be considered under this stream, including:
- Accounting technicians and bookkeepers (NOC 12200).
- Administrative assistants (NOC 13110).
- Shippers and receivers (NOC 14400).
- Restaurant and food service managers (NOC 60030).
- Food service supervisors (NOC 62020).
- Cooks (NOC 63200).
- Bakers (NOC 63202).
- Bartenders (NOC 64301).
- Other customer representatives (NOC 64409).
- Food and beverage servers (NOC 65200).
- Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers, and related occupations (NOC 65201).
- Process control and machine operators – food and beverage processing (NOC 94140).
- Fish and seafood plant workers (NOC 94142).
- Laborers in food and beverage processing (NOC 95106).
- Laborers in fish and seafood (NOC 95107).
New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream
This stream has reached its maximum capacity and will not accept new EOIs for now. The In-Person Exploratory Visit to New Brunswick connection, which was paused in November 2024, will not return in 2025.
What’s Next for New Brunswick’s Immigration Allocations?
New Brunswick officials have expressed concern over the significant reduction in nomination spaces for 2025. Acting Minister Jean-Claude D’Amours stated that these restrictions could impact the province’s ability to support economic growth and local businesses.
However, similar allocation cuts were seen in Newfoundland and Labrador, which successfully negotiated with the federal government to restore most of its provincial nominee spots by agreeing to accept 290 humanitarian immigrants over three years. A similar agreement could be pursued by New Brunswick.
The province is actively advocating for more nomination spaces, citing the need for skilled labor in various industries. Moreover, with the rising demand for skilled workers, industries like technology, engineering, and skilled trades may see additional support from provincial authorities to attract talent. Employers in these sectors are encouraged to stay engaged with recruitment initiatives facilitated by the provincial government.
For now, prospective immigrants should stay updated on changes and ensure their applications meet the latest criteria.
Final Thoughts
The reopening of the New Brunswick PNP presents both opportunities and challenges. While the program is back on track, certain sectors remain restricted, meaning candidates must carefully review eligibility requirements before applying.
As immigration policies evolve, staying informed and proactive is key. Keep following our updates and social media channels to stay ahead of any changes!
