Summary
Good news for prospective immigrants targeting Atlantic Canada! The New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) has resumed its invitation rounds after a short pause, holding a new draw on December 9, 2025. A total of 110 invitations to apply (ITAs) for a provincial nomination were issued to candidates in two key immigration streams: the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream and the New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream. This is the first draw announced by the province since mid-November, signaling renewed activity for the new year.
What Does This Update Mean?
The resumption of NBPNP draws is a significant and positive development for anyone with an Expression of Interest (EOI) in the New Brunswick pool or for those considering it as their destination province. It indicates that the province is actively processing applications and seeking skilled immigrants to meet its labour market needs. For candidates, this means the door is open again to receive a coveted provincial nomination, which is a major step towards securing Canadian permanent residence.
Who Is Affected?
This news directly impacts several groups:
- Immigration Candidates: Individuals who have already submitted an EOI to the NBPNP, particularly those qualifying under the Express Entry and Skilled Worker streams.
- Express Entry Candidates: Federal Express Entry candidates who listed New Brunswick as a province of interest are prime candidates for the NB Express Entry stream. A nomination from New Brunswick grants an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, essentially guaranteeing an invitation to apply for PR in a subsequent federal draw.
- Skilled Workers with Job Offers: Candidates with a valid job offer from a New Brunswick employer are affected, as the Skilled Worker stream is a primary pathway for them.
- New Brunswick Employers: Local employers who rely on the NBPNP to hire foreign talent to fill crucial job vacancies will welcome the resumption of draws.
Spotlight on the NBPNP Streams in This Draw
To understand if you could be next, it’s important to know the streams that issued invitations:
- New Brunswick Express Entry Stream: This stream is designed for candidates who already have an active profile in the federal Express Entry system. It targets individuals with the skills and experience needed to contribute to New Brunswick’s economy.
- New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream: This pathway is for individuals who have received a full-time, permanent job offer from a New Brunswick employer. It is a popular option for those who have already secured employment in the province.
What Can You Do About It?
Depending on your situation, here are some actionable next steps:
- If You Received an Invitation: Congratulations! You must now submit your complete application for a provincial nomination to the NBPNP within the specified deadline. Ensure you provide all required documents accurately to avoid delays.
- If You Have an Active Profile but Weren’t Invited: Use this opportunity to review and update your EOI profile. Check if you can improve your score by retaking language tests, gaining more work experience, or securing a valid job offer in New Brunswick.
- If You Are Considering New Brunswick: Now is an excellent time to explore your eligibility for the NBPNP. If you qualify, consider submitting an Expression of Interest. Research the specific requirements for each stream to find the best fit for your profile.
With draws resuming, staying proactive and prepared is key to successfully navigating your Canadian immigration journey through the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program.