tarting March 5, 2025, New Brunswick has officially opened applications for two Express Entry-aligned pathways under its Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP). These pathways provide eligible candidates with a chance to apply for permanent residency in Canada.
The two pathways now accepting applications are:
- Employment in New Brunswick Pathway
- New Brunswick Interests Pathway
Both pathways come with new eligibility criteria, including age adjustments, work experience requirements, and residency obligations. However, certain occupations will be excluded from receiving invitations.
Key Updates to NBPNP Pathways
New Brunswick has introduced notable changes in eligibility criteria, including:
- Lowering the minimum age requirement from 22 to 19 years.
- Requiring at least 12 consecutive months of full-time work experience in New Brunswick for candidates applying under the Employment in New Brunswick pathway.
- Implementing stricter residency requirements to ensure applicants have a genuine connection to the province.
The first round of applications for 2025 follows major modifications in New Brunswick’s immigration system, introduced in response to a reduced provincial nomination allocation.
Limited Number of Invitations
For 2025, New Brunswick has received 2,750 total immigration nominations, distributed as follows:
- NBPNP: 1,500 nominations
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): 1,250 nominations
Unlike previous years, the NBPNP has clarified that Expressions of Interest (EOIs) will not be processed on a first-come-first-serve basis, meaning applicants must meet all eligibility criteria to receive an invitation.
Eligibility Criteria for NBPNP Express Entry Streams
Each of the two Express Entry pathways has different selection criteria.
1. Employment in New Brunswick Pathway
Candidates applying under this pathway must:
- Have been living and working full-time for a New Brunswick employer for the past 12 consecutive months.
- Meet all other eligibility requirements outlined by the NBPNP.
2. New Brunswick Interests Pathway
Candidates applying under this pathway must:
- Have received a Letter of Interest from New Brunswick Immigration in their Express Entry profile.
- Have at least one year of continuous full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience within the last 10 years.
General Eligibility Requirements for Both Streams
To qualify for either pathway, candidates must:
- Have a valid Express Entry profile.
- Demonstrate language proficiency in English or French (minimum CLB/NCLC level 7 in all four abilities).
- Meet the federal proof of funds requirement (unless exempt).
- Possess a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent.
- Show genuine intent to live and work in New Brunswick permanently.
- Be between the ages of 19 and 55.
- Score a minimum of 67 points on New Brunswick’s Express Entry selection grid.
- Have work experience in NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
Excluded Occupations
Certain job categories are not eligible for nomination under these pathways. If your occupation falls under any of the following NOC codes, you will not be considered:
| Job Title | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Accounting technicians and bookkeepers | 12200 |
| Administrative assistants | 13110 |
| Bakers | 63202 |
| Cooks | 63200 |
| Food service supervisors | 62020 |
| Restaurant and food service managers | 60030 |
| Retail and wholesale trade managers | 60020 |
| Retail sales supervisors | 62010 |
How to Apply for NBPNP Pathways
Eligible candidates can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) online portal. Selected applicants will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for provincial nomination.
If nominated, candidates will gain 600 additional CRS points in the Express Entry system, significantly increasing their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Schedule a Work Permit Consultation
If you’re considering working in New Brunswick or applying for permanent residency, professional guidance can help you navigate the application process. Schedule a Work Permit Consultation with immigration experts today!
