新斯科舍省
NSNP UPDATE: Application Fees Effective September 1, 2026eormistonThu, 08/06/2026 - 11:14August 6, 2026Effective September 1, 2026, Nova Scotia will introduce application fees for the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP).Why Fees Are Being IntroducedApplication fees will help ensure that the NSNP continues to operate efficiently and with strong program integrity by:Supporting effective program administration and assessment processesHelping ensure limited nomination spaces are allocated in support of Nova Scotia’s labour market and economic prioritiesRecovering a portion of the administrative costs associated with assessing applicationsIntroducing fees aligns Nova Scotia with most jurisdictions across Canada.When Fees ApplyFees will only be charged once a candidate has been selected from the expression of interest (EOI) pool for assessment.There is no fee to submit an EOI.Any EOIs selected for assessment on or after September 1, 2026 are subject to the application fee, regardless of when the EOI was submitted.Candidates who received their selection letter before September 1, 2026 will not be required to pay the fee.This change does not affect the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). The AIP will continue to operate without a provincial application fee, consistent with other Atlantic provinces.Application Fee AmountEffective September 1, 2026, the following application fees apply:$1,000 for the NSNP worker streams (Skilled Worker, Nova Scotia Graduate, Nova Scotia: Express Entry)$2,000 for the NSNP entrepreneur streamPayment RequirementsApplication fees are non-refundable except where required by law or when an administrative error has occurred.Application fees deadline:Worker streams (Skilled Worker, Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry, and Nova Scotia Graduate):The application fee must be paid within 7 calendar days of receiving notification that your EOI has been selected for assessment.Entrepreneur stream:Entrepreneur stream – candidates starting a new business:The application fee must be paid within 90 calendar days of receiving an Invitation to Apply.Entrepreneur stream – candidates purchasing an existing business:The application fee must be paid within 180 calendar days of receiving an Invitation to Apply.Entrepreneur stream – International Graduates:The application fee must be paid within 90 calendar days of receiving an Invitation to Apply.Failure to provide proof of payment within the specified timeline will result in the closure of the EOI and the submission will not proceed to assessment. Candidates may submit a new EOI if they continue to meet eligibility requirements.Supporting a Stronger Immigration SystemNova Scotia remains committed to attracting and retaining newcomers who intend to settle, work, and build their lives in the province, while continuing to strengthen and modernize its immigration programs.NSNP Application Fees - Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: Why are fees being introduced now?Demand for nominations continues to exceed Nova Scotia’s annual federal allocation. Introducing an application fee will help support the sustainability and effective administration of the program and aligns Nova Scotia with most other provincial immigration programs.Q: When do the fees take effect?The fees take effect on September 1, 2026.Q: Who will need to pay the fee?NSNP Candidates whose Expression of Interest (EOI) is selected for assessment on or after September 1, 2026 will need to pay the applicable fee, regardless of EOI submission date. There is no fee to submit an EOI.Candidates who received their selection letter before September 1, 2026 are not required to pay the fee.Q: At what stage in the process should I pay the fee?If your EOI is selected for assessment, you will receive instructions by email on how to pay the application fee. There is no fee associated with submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI).Q: Is the fee refundable?Application fees are non-refundable.Q: How much is the fee?The application fee depends on the stream you are selected for assessment under:$1,000 for worker streams: Nova Scotia: Skilled Worker, Nova Scotia: Graduate, and Nova Scotia: Express Entry.$2,000 for the Entrepreneur stream.Q: Does having dependents affect the fee amount?No, dependents do not affect the fee. The fee is charged per principal applicant and does not change based on the number of dependents included in the application.Q: How can I make the payment? What methods are accepted?We accept the following methods of payment: Visa, MasterCard, Discover Card and American Express.Payment must be made online, in a single payment.If your EOI is selected for assessment, you will receive instructions on how to pay the application fee.Q: How much time will I have to submit the payment once I am invited?Worker streams (Skilled Worker, Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry, and Nova Scotia Graduate):The application fee must be paid within 7 calendar days of receiving notification that your EOI has been selected for assessment.Entrepreneur stream:Entrepreneur stream – candidates starting a new business:The application fee must be paid within 90 calendar days of receiving an Invitation to Apply.Entrepreneur stream – candidates purchasing an existing business:The application fee must be paid within 180 calendar days of receiving an Invitation to Apply.Entrepreneur stream – International Graduates:The application fee must be paid within 90 calendar days of receiving an Invitation to Apply.Applications that remain unpaid after the deadline will not be processed.Q: Will there be exemptions or fee waivers?No. The application fee applies to all NSNP streams and all applicants selected for assessment. Fee waivers and exemptions are not available.Q: Once I have paid, what happens next?If you have submitted all required documents and paid the fees within the timeframe provided, your submission will proceed to assessment. Once the assessment is complete, you will receive a decision on your submission.Q: Will I receive a confirmation or receipt relating to my payment of the application fee?Yes, you will receive a receipt by email. Keep this proof of payment as you will be required to submit the proof of payment to us. A screenshot of the confirmation page will not be accepted as proof of payment.Q: Once I have paid the fee, am I guaranteed to be nominated?No. Paying the application fee does not affect the assessment outcome or increase the likelihood of nomination.Q: Does paying the fee result in faster processing?No. Payment of the application fee does not impact processing times. All submissions are processed based on program priorities and operational capacity.Q: If I reapply, do I need to pay the fee again?Application fees are non‑refundable. If you choose to submit a new Expression of Interest (EOI) and are selected again for the NSNP, you will be required to pay the application fee again.Q: Can I pre-pay the fee while I wait to be selected?No. You can only pay the fee if your EOI submission is selected for assessment.Q: Can I pay the fee in installments?No. The fee must be paid in the full amount if your EOI is selected for assessment.Q: Can I pay the fee with different credit cards (e.g. $500 on one card, $500 on another)?No. The fee must be paid in full using a single payment method.Q. What happens if my payment is declined?A successful payment is required before your application can be accepted for assessment. If your payment is declined, your application will be considered incomplete and assessment will not begin until payment is received within the timeline provided. Applications that remain unpaid after the deadline will not be processed.Program Updates
新斯科舍省
Update: Nova Scotia Nominee Program and Atlantic Immigration Program 2026 Selection PrioritieseormistonTue, 07/14/2026 - 13:51July 14, 2026Nova Scotia is implementing a one-time expansion of its immigration selection priorities to align with current labour market needs and available nomination spaces in 2026.Nova Scotia continues to experience strong interest in its immigration programs while operating within limited federal immigration allocations. As a result, the Province must make strategic decisions about how nomination and endorsement spaces are used to support economic growth, workforce needs, and population retention.Nova Scotia seeks to balance retaining individuals who are already living and working in the province and may have limited temporary status remaining with addressing the province's long-term labour market needs. This includes retaining workers who are contributing to Nova Scotia's economy today while continuing to support sectors and occupations experiencing persistent workforce shortages that cannot be filled through the local labour market.Meeting eligibility requirements for a program does not guarantee selection, as the Province must also consider program integrity, available spaces, and broader labour market and economic priorities when selecting Expressions of Interest.Limited Expansion of Selection PrioritiesNova Scotia will continue to prioritize candidates inpreviously published priority occupations.As a one-time initiative, the Province is expanding its selection from active EOIs submitted on or before June 30, 2026, to include additional candidates already living and working in Nova Scotia. This approach supports workforce retention and helps address labour market needs within Nova Scotia’s available nomination spaces.The expanded selection includes candidates who have already submitted an EOI and who have a work permit expiry date in 2026 or earlier, and who meet one or more of the following criteria:Working in a TEER 0-4 occupation that supports key sectors of Nova Scotia's economy, such as Professional & Scientific, Manufacturing, Construction, Health & Social Services, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Transportation;Graduating from a Nova Scotia designated learning institution and working in a TEER 0-5 occupation;Living in a community outside the Halifax Regional Municipality and working in a TEER 0-5 occupation;Working in a Sales and Service occupation (TEER 0-2) and earning at least $20 per hour at the time of EOI submission; orWorking in Nova Scotia in any occupation and earning at least $27 per hour at the time of EOI submission.Work permit expiry may be considered as a secondary factor when determining the order in which selected applications are processed.For international recruitment, Nova Scotia will continue to focus on occupations experiencing significant workforce shortages. This includes healthcare occupations, skilled trades, and selected occupations that support the delivery of critical services in Nova Scotia communities.Candidates selected through this one-time initiative will be contacted directly by the Department. If you are not contacted, your existing EOI will remain in the pool and may be considered under the Province's previously published selection priorities, which remain in effect.Priorities May Change Over TimeNova Scotia's immigration priorities are responsive to changing labour market conditions, workforce needs, and available immigration allocations. As these factors evolve, selection priorities may also change.Candidates are encouraged to pursue education, training, and employment opportunities that align with their skills, experience, interests, and long-term goals. Immigration priorities are intended to respond to labour market needs at a particular point in time and should not be viewed as permanent. Choosing a program of study, occupation, or career path solely based on current immigration priorities may not improve future selection prospects, as provincial priorities will continue to evolve.The Province will continue to publish updates when significant changes to selection priorities occur.Expression of Interest DrawsNova Scotia conducts regular selections from itsExpression of Interest pool. Applicants selected from the pool will be contacted directly by the Department.For information on recent selections, visit theExpression of Interest Draws page.Program Updates
新斯科舍省
Nominee Program Priorities in Nova ScotiaeormistonMon, 04/27/2026 - 10:05April 27, 2026Nominee Program Priorities in Nova ScotiaNova Scotia’s nominee programs are focused on addressing the province’s most critical labour‑market needs while managing limited nomination spaces, with an emphasis on candidates who demonstrate a genuine intention to live, work, and settle long‑term in the province.Current priority focusHealthcare and skilled trades occupationsThese occupations are a top priority for nomination at TEER levels 0–4 only and may be considered for both:International applicants, andTemporary residents already living and working in Nova ScotiaTEER 5 occupations are not being prioritized.Other priority occupationsIn addition to healthcare and skilled trades, Nova Scotia may consider nominations for temporary residents who are already living and working in the province in the following occupational groups, where they align with program criteria and labour‑market needs:NOC 2 – Natural and Applied Sciences and Related OccupationsNOC 4 – Education, Law and Social, Community and Government ServicesNOC 8 – Natural Resources, Agriculture and Related Production OccupationsNOC 9 – Manufacturing and UtilitiesConsideration under these occupational groups is limited to TEER levels 0–4 only.TEER 5 occupations are not being prioritized at this time.Limited consideration for remaining occupationsFor occupations outside the priority groups, nominations are currently limited to:TEER 0, 1, and 2 only, andTemporary residents already living and working in Nova ScotiaTEER 5 occupations are not being prioritized in any category at this time.Program priorities may shift as labour‑market needs and nomination allocations change. Applicants are encouraged to monitor program updates regularly.Program Updates
新斯科舍省
Expression of Interest (EOI) Validity Period and Transition MeasureseormistonMon, 04/27/2026 - 09:57April 27, 2026Effective May 1, 2026Effective May 1, 2026, Nova Scotia will introduce a 12‑month validity period for Expressions of Interest (EOIs) as part of improved inventory management and program efficiency measures. To support a smooth transition, a phased approach will apply to EOIs currently in the system.Why this change is being introducedThese measures ensure that EOIs in the system are current, accurate, and aligned with program and labour‑market needs, while maintaining a sufficient and stable inventory to support nominations and processing in 2026.Applicants are encouraged to monitor program updates and submit a new EOI if their circumstances change or if their EOI expires.How the transition will workEOIs submitted before May 1, 2024EOIs submitted two or more years ago (before May 1, 2024) will be closed effective May 1, 2026.Closing an EOI is not a refusal.Affected candidates may submit a new EOI at any time, provided they meet eligibility requirements.EOIs submitted between May 1, 2024 and April 30, 2026EOIs submitted during this period will remain active.If not selected, these EOIs will expire on April 30, 2027.No action is required from applicants at this time unless their circumstances change.EOIs submitted on or after May 1, 2026EOIs submitted on or after May 1, 2026 will be subject to a 12‑month validity period from the date of submission.EOIs not selected within 12 months will expire and be removed from the pool.Expired EOIs may be resubmitted if the applicant continues to meet eligibility criteria.What an EOI expiry meansExpiry or closure of an EOI does not mean an application has been refused.EOIs are expressions of interest, not applications for nomination.Applicants may submit a new EOI at any time, as long as they meet program requirements.Program Updates
新斯科舍省
自2026年5月1日起，新斯科舍省将引入12个月的意向书（EOI）有效期，以改进库存管理和提高项目效率。为支持平稳过渡，目前系统中的EOI将分阶段处理。此举旨在确保EOI的及时性、准确性并与项目及劳动力市场需求保持一致，同时维持充足稳定的库存以支持2026年的提名和处理。鼓励申请人关注项目更新，并在情况变化或EOI到期时提交新的EOI。2024年5月1日之前提交的EOI将在2026年5月1日失效；2024年5月1日至2026年4月30日期间提交的EOI将保持有效，若未被选中，将于2027年4月30日到期；2026年5月1日及之后提交的EOI将有12个月有效期，到期后可重新提交。EOI的失效或关闭不等于申请被拒绝。
新斯科舍省
NSNP Update: Four Consolidated StreamseormistonTue, 02/17/2026 - 15:28The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) has modernized its immigration streams to create clearer pathways for newcomers and employers and to streamline processing.What has ChangedTen NSNP immigration streams, each with different eligibility requirements based on occupation, work experience, education and language ability, have been consolidated into a new structure with four streams. As of February 18, 2026, the NSNP streams are:Nova Scotia GraduateSkilled WorkerEntrepreneurNova Scotia: Express EntryEligibility Remains the SameThese streams include sub-criteria that mirror the eligibility requirements of the old streams.Skilled Worker:The Construction Worker sub-criteria are the same eligibility requirements as the former Critical Construction Worker Pilot.The Physician sub-criteria are the same eligibility requirements as the Physician Stream.Entrepreneur:The International Graduate sub-criteria are the same eligibility requirements as the International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream.Nova Scotia Graduate:The eligibility requirements for International Graduates in Demand are included in the new Nova Scotia Graduate Stream.Nova Scotia: Express Entry:The former Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry, Labour Market Priorities and Labour Market Priorities for Physicians Streams have been consolidated into the new Nova Scotia: Express Entry Stream. This stream includes all the same eligibility requirements.New SubmissionsThese changes apply only to new Expression of Interest (EOI) submissions submitted to the NSNP after February 18, 2026.The changes do not affect the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).Existing EOI SubmissionsEOI submissions already in the NSNP pool remain active and are not affected.The consolidation of NSNP streams does not affect your eligibility.No action is required from you.We appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the efficiency and clarity of our immigration programs.Program Updates
新斯科舍省
NSNP Update: Stream Modernization & Temporary Portal ClosureeormistonThu, 02/05/2026 - 12:10The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is modernizing its forms to improve efficiency and support the launch of consolidated NSNP streams.Temporary Portal and Website ClosureTo complete these updates, the NSNP application portal will be temporarily closed from February 13 to February 18, 2026.Please note the following:If you have an Expression of Interest (EOI) submission in progress, it must be submitted before February 13, 2026, at 4:00 PM.In-progress submissions that are not submitted by this date will be cancelled automatically and progress will not be saved.You will not be able to upload additional documents while the portal is closed.NSNP website pages may be temporarily unavailable on February 17–18, 2026.The NSNP application portal and website pages will reopen on February 18, 2026.Stream ConsolidationNSNP streams will be consolidated from 10 to 4 to improve clarity, consistency and provide applicants with a modernized application process.NOTE: Stream consolidation will not impact eligibilityor the procedures for selecting submissions in priority areas such as Healthcare, Construction, and Manufacturing. Existing criteria remain unchanged; streams such as Physician and Critical Construction Worker Pilot will continue under the consolidated Skilled Worker stream.Additional details on the consolidated streams will be released on February 18, 2026.These changes apply only to the NSNP and do not affect the Atlantic Immigration Program.Existing EOIs and Submissions in ProcessingNo action is required.EOIs already submitted remain in the NSNP pool, as well as submissions currently selected for processing, remain active and are not affected by stream consolidation.Processing of existing submissions will continue as normal.Thank you for your patience as we implement these updates.Program Updates
新斯科舍省
Processing Policy: Expression of InteresteormistonFri, 11/28/2025 - 11:04November 28, 2025Nova Scotia is formalizing an expression of interest (EOI) process for all streams of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) and for Designations and Endorsements under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).This important step will bring clarity and predictability to both applicants and employers, while ensuring the Province can respond to changing labour market needs and support sustainable, long-term community growth.How does an EOI Process help Nova Scotia meet its labour needs?The number of individuals interested in immigrating to Nova Scotia is significantly higher than the number of applications the province can approve under its annual federal allocation from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).The EOI model is widely used across immigration systems in Canada. It enables Nova Scotia to identify and invite submissions that best align with the province’s evolving economic priorities, at the discretion of the department of Labour, Skills and Immigration (LSI). These priorities could include sectors such as healthcare, construction and trades, STEM, natural resources and manufacturing, along with broader community and workforce needs. Please continue to visit our website for published draw information.The EOI model also sets clear expectations for the candidate and employer while providing a transparent and predictable experience.How our EOI process works: NSNP and AIPSubmit your expression of interest:Candidates (NSNP) and employers (AIP) will continue to submit full applications. These submissions are treated as EOIs and entered into an EOI pool.Draws for processing:Nova Scotia will conduct periodic draws to select EOIs for processing. Factors that may guide selection include provincial priorities, remaining allocation, EOI pool volume, and program integrity considerations.If selected:You will receive direct communication from our department confirming your submission has been chosen for processing. Being selected means your submission aligns with current priorities. It doesnotguarantee approval.If not selected:Your submission remains in the EOI pool. If you do not receive communication, your status has not changed.Existing SubmissionsAll submissions to Nova Scotia’s immigration programs — regardless of when they were submitted — are considered EOIs. Meeting eligibility criteria or having a case ID does not guarantee that your submission will be processed.Processing NotificationsWe will contact you if your submission is selected for processing. If you have not heard from us, it remains in the EOI pool with no new updates. You do not need to inquire, as we will notify you if your submission status changes.Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: How does this announcement impact my existing submission?A:Your submission remains in the EOI pool, and no action is required. If it is selected for processing, you will receive direct communications from our department. Until then, the status of your submission has not changed, and we have no further updates to provide.Q: When will my EOI be selected for processing?A:We are unable to provide a timeline for the selection of EOIs for processing. We are unable to guarantee that your EOI will be selected for processing. You may wish to monitor our website for periodic draw information.Q: Does this announcement impact AIP Designations?A:Yes, AIP designation submissions are considered an EOI and will follow the same process outlined above.Q: Am I still submitting a full application?A:Yes. The requirement to submit a complete application remains unchanged. Please ensure your submission is complete to avoid a delay in processing.Q: How long will my submission stay in the EOI pool?A:Your submission will stay in the EOI pool until it is drawn, or until further notice. Timelines vary depending on the number of factors, including available spaces, labour market priorities and EOI volumes. Nova Scotia will contact you only if your submission is selected.Q: If my submission is selected does that mean it will likely be approved?A:There are no guarantees that your submission will be approved if it is selected for processing.Q: How do I get updates on my file?A:You will receive direct communication from our department confirming your submission has been chosen for processing. In the meantime, you can visit our website at liveinnovascotia.ca for the most up to date program information.Q: What submissions will you be prioritizing?A:Nova Scotia will prioritize submissions that align with current economic and labour market needs. Priority areas may include sectors such as healthcare, construction and trades, STEM, natural resources, manufacturing, and other workforce needs across the province. These priorities will evolve over time based on labour market data and government direction. Updated selection information will be published on our website.Program Updates
新斯科舍省
Nova Scotia Immigration Update – 2025kcarsonThu, 07/17/2025 - 15:41July 17, 2025We appreciate the strong interest in Nova Scotia’s economic immigration programs. Please note the following update, as we are receiving more applications than we can approve in 2025.Who We're Prioritizing in 2025People already living and working in Nova Scotia with work permits expiring in 2025.Of these applicants with work permits expiring in 2025, further prioritization of:Healthcare and social assistance (NAICS 62)Construction (NAICS 23)We also look at:Regional needs across the provincePeople who are likely to stay long term in Nova ScotiaApplications from Outside CanadaInternational applicants in healthcare, social assistance and construction continue to be prioritized.Most other applications from outside Canada in non-priority sectors will not be processed at this time. Exceptions may be made for employers in the Atlantic Immigration Program hiring in:TruckingScience and technologyClean energy sectorsResource DevelopmentPlanning for 2026In 2026, we will prioritize workers in healthcare, social assistance and construction with permits expiring that year. Other priorities will be set once we receive our 2026 allocation from the federal government.Additional NotesNot all eligible applications will be processedMeeting program criteria does not guarantee approvalYou must continue to have legal status in CanadaYou must tell us about any changes to your status or jobProgram Updates