Nova Scotia Immigration Updates

Nova Scotia has introduced an Expression of Interest model for all submissions to its immigration programs, including the Nova Scotia Provincial Nominee Program and the Atlantic Immigration Program. Under this approach, all applications now function as EOIs and are placed in a shared candidate pool. The province clarified that having a case ID or meeting eligibility requirements no longer guarantees that a submission will be processed.

The shift replaces the previous system, in which full applications were directly assessed. Now, Nova Scotia will periodically conduct draws from the pool. Factors that may influence selection include provincial labour priorities, remaining allocation spaces, the size of the pool and program integrity needs. Selected candidates or employers will receive direct notice indicating that their submission is progressing to processing. Selection reflects alignment with provincial needs at the time but does not ensure approval. EOIs that are not chosen remain in the pool without change.

Nova Scotia stated that the change is driven by a significantly higher number of interested applicants than available spaces under its federal allocation. Reduced nomination allocations across provinces have led many jurisdictions to adopt EOI systems this year. The province expects the new approach to help direct its limited nomination capacity toward key labour and demographic needs. Possible priority sectors include:

Healthcare
Construction
Trades
STEM
Natural resources
Manufacturing

The province anticipates that these priorities may evolve. It also noted that higher provincial immigration targets for 2026 may ease pressure on candidates. Nova Scotia’s allocation for 2025 has already risen from 3,150 to 3,709 nomination spots.