### Summary
New Brunswick has officially launched its immigration activities for 2026, conducting its first Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) draws between January 13th and 15th. The province issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates across three key immigration streams: the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream, the New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream, and the New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream. A significant requirement for all invited candidates was having established ties to the province.
### What Does This Update Mean?
This first draw of the year is a strong signal that New Brunswick is actively seeking skilled newcomers to fill labour market gaps and contribute to its economy in 2026. For prospective immigrants, this is a positive development that opens the door to Canadian permanent residency through the NBPNP. The focus on candidates with “ties to the province” underscores the importance New Brunswick places on ensuring newcomers have a support system and a clear connection, which aids in long-term retention and successful integration.
### Who Is Affected?
This announcement directly impacts several groups:
* **Express Entry Candidates:** Individuals in the federal Express Entry pool who have listed New Brunswick as a province of interest are directly affected, especially if they have connections to the province.
* **Skilled Workers:** Foreign nationals who have secured a valid job offer from a New Brunswick employer.
* **French-Speaking Candidates:** The Strategic Initiative Stream specifically targets French-speaking individuals, making this a key opportunity for them.
* **Prospective Immigrants with NB Ties:** Anyone with a connection to the province—such as previous work experience, post-secondary education in NB, or close family—is in a stronger position to be invited.
* **New Brunswick Employers:** Local employers who rely on the NBPNP to hire international talent can now move forward with their recruitment plans for 2026.
### Program Streams Explained
Understanding the streams involved is crucial for interested applicants:
* **New Brunswick Express Entry Stream:** This stream is aligned with the federal Express Entry system. Candidates who receive a nomination (an ITA) from New Brunswick are awarded an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply for permanent residence in a subsequent federal draw.
* **New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream:** This stream is designed for individuals who have received a full-time, permanent job offer from a New Brunswick employer. It provides a direct pathway for workers with in-demand skills to settle in the province.
* **New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream:** This stream is for French-speaking skilled workers who possess the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to New Brunswick’s economy and plan to live and work in the province permanently.
### What Can You Do About It?
If you are interested in immigrating to New Brunswick, here are some actionable next steps:
1. **Assess Your Eligibility:** Carefully review the detailed eligibility criteria for each of the three active NBPNP streams on the official Government of New Brunswick website.
2. **Establish Provincial Ties:** If you don’t already have a connection, explore ways to build one. This could include applying for jobs with New Brunswick employers, attending virtual recruitment events hosted by the province, or researching educational programs.
3. **Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI):** If you are eligible, the next step is to submit an EOI through the official INB portal. This is how you formally express your interest in being considered for a provincial nomination.
4. **Update Your Express Entry Profile:** If you are in the federal Express Entry pool, ensure your profile is current and accurately reflects your interest in immigrating to New Brunswick.
5. **Prepare Your Documents:** Begin gathering necessary documents such as language test results (IELTS or CELPIP for English, TEF for French), educational credential assessments (ECAs), and proof of work experience. Being prepared will allow you to act quickly if you receive an ITA.