New Brunswick has introduced significant changes to its immigration policies under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). The provincial nominee program (NBPNP) will no longer endorse applications for certain occupations. This change affects foreign workers seeking permanent residency (PR) in Canada.
Occupations No Longer Eligible for Endorsement
The following job categories are now ineligible for AIP endorsements in New Brunswick:
- Accounting technicians and bookkeepers (NOC 12200)
- Administrative assistants (NOC 13110)
- Shippers and receivers (NOC 14400)
- Restaurant and food service managers (NOC 60030)
- Food service supervisors (NOC 62020)
- Cooks (NOC 63200)
- Bakers (NOC 63202)
- Bartenders (NOC 64301)
- Other customer representatives (NOC 64409)
- Process control and machine operators – food and beverage processing (NOC 94140)
- Fish and seafood plant workers (NOC 94142)
This decision impacts employers who previously relied on AIP to hire foreign workers for these positions. If you are looking for alternative immigration routes, consider the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream. Other PNP options might still be available.
Transitional Period for Some Occupations
For a limited time, endorsements will still be processed for applications submitted before February 18, 2025, for the following occupations:
- Retail and wholesale trade managers (NOC 60020)
- Retail sales supervisors (NOC 62010)
- Retail salespersons and visual merchandisers (NOC 64100)
- Hotel front desk clerks (NOC 64314)
If you have already applied for endorsement under these job categories, your application will proceed as usual. However, new applications will not be accepted.
New Brunswick’s Immigration Strategy for 2025
Canada’s updated Immigration Levels Plan 2025-27 has reduced PNP allocations by 50% compared to 2024. As a result, New Brunswick is shifting its focus toward critical sectors. The province is prioritizing endorsements in the following fields:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Construction trades
This means foreign workers with experience in these sectors may have a higher chance of receiving endorsements. They may also obtain PR status under AIP.
Alternative Immigration Pathways to New Brunswick
If your occupation is no longer eligible under AIP, consider these alternative routes for immigrating to New Brunswick:
1. Express Entry Program
New Brunswick participates in Canada’s Express Entry system, which offers a direct path to PR for skilled workers. This system ranks candidates based on factors such as work experience, language skills, and education.
To qualify for Express Entry, applicants must meet the requirements of one of the following federal programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
2. New Brunswick Express Entry Stream
This pathway offers an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points for candidates who receive a provincial nomination. The New Brunswick PNP Express Entry stream has also updated its occupation list, restricting some jobs but still accepting others.
3. New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Program
This employer-driven initiative is a five-year pilot aimed at filling labor gaps in specific industries. To qualify, applicants need a job offer from one of the following designated employers:
- Cooke Aquaculture
- J.D. Irving Ltd.
- Groupe Savoie
- Groupe Westco
- Imperial Manufacturing Group
- McCain Foods Ltd.
4. Work Permits & Employer-Specific LMIA Options
Some job seekers may still qualify for employer-specific work permits. This happens through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process. It allows them to work in New Brunswick and gain PR eligibility through Canadian work experience.
How to Apply for Immigration to New Brunswick
- Determine your eligibility under AIP, Express Entry, or PNP.
- Secure a job offer from a designated employer (for AIP & PNP pathways).
- Submit an application through the appropriate immigration stream.
- Await processing and follow up with additional documentation as required.
Need Assistance?
If you need guidance on applying for a work permit or PR, schedule a Free Work Permit Consultation today!
