Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada’s easternmost province, has grown into a key economic player in the country. The province comprises two distinct regions: Labrador, which is connected to mainland Canada, and the island of Newfoundland. The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) offers prospective immigrants with the skills and experience needed by the province the opportunity to receive a provincial nomination. This nomination allows them to apply for Canadian permanent residence.
Overview of the Newfoundland and Labrador PNP
The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) has been operating since 1999, making it one of Canada’s first PNPs. It is designed to attract immigrants with the skills and experience needed to address the province’s economic and labor market needs. The NLPNP targets skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates.
Along with the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), the NLPNP is contributing to an increase in the province’s immigration intake. Newfoundland and Labrador aims to welcome 1,700 immigrants annually, up from 1,200.
The NLPNP includes an enhanced category, the NL Express Entry Skilled Worker category, aligned with the federal Express Entry system, and base categories not aligned with Express Entry.
Newfoundland and Labrador Immigration Streams
There are five immigration streams under the NLPNP:
- NL Express Entry Skilled Worker: For skilled workers with a job offer and an Express Entry profile.
- Skilled Worker Category: For skilled workers with a full-time job offer from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer.
- International Graduate Category: For recent graduates with a Post-Graduate Work Permit and a job offer.
- International Entrepreneur Category: For those wishing to start, manage, or purchase a business in the province.
- International Graduate Entrepreneur Category: For international graduates from Newfoundland and Labrador institutions who wish to run a business in the province.
Categories and Requirements
- NL Express Entry Skilled Worker: Requires an Express Entry profile, a full-time job offer, and a post-secondary degree. A provincial nomination grants an additional 600 CRS points, ensuring an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
- Skilled Worker Category: Requires a full-time job offer from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer and relevant experience. Processing time is typically 25 business days.
- International Graduate Category: For recent graduates with a Post-Graduation Work Permit and a job offer. Processing time is around 25 business days.
- International Entrepreneur Category: Requires a minimum net worth of CAD $600,000, a business investment, and business experience. It involves a two-step process, including submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) and a business plan.
- International Graduate Entrepreneur Category: For international graduates who want to establish a business in Newfoundland and Labrador. This category also requires submitting an Expression of Interest and a business viability review.
Atlantic Immigration Pilot
The AIP is a fast-track program allowing employers in the Atlantic provinces (Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island) to hire foreign nationals for unfilled jobs. Candidates who accept a job offer can apply for a temporary work permit while their permanent residence application is processed.
