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How to Immigrate to Canada (New Brunswick) in 2025
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With its natural beauty, affordable living, and welcoming communities, New Brunswick has become an increasingly attractive destination for immigrants to Canada. In 2025, as Canada works toward its goal of welcoming over 500,000 new permanent residents, the province plays a key role in supporting regional immigration and economic growth. For many newcomers, New Brunswick offers not just opportunity, but a high quality of life in a supportive, community-oriented setting.
- Main Industries
- Forestry and Wood Products
- Fishing and Aquaculture
- Agriculture and Food Processing
- Mining and Mineral Extraction
- Manufacturing and Industrial Goods
- Energy and Utilities Sector
- Information and Communication Technology
- Tourism and Hospitality Services
UTC -3.5 to -8
9,984,670 km2
CAD$ (C$)
Ottawa
English, French
Overview of New Brunswick Immigration Pathways
New Brunswick offers several robust pathways for individuals and families aspiring to call it home in 2025. By tailoring its immigration landscape to different needs and skillsets, the province ensures a suitable route for a wide range of applicants.
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
Through various streams under the NBPNP, candidates—whether skilled workers, entrepreneurs, or Express Entry registrants—can secure provincial nomination. This endorsement greatly enhances their chances of obtaining permanent residence via Canada’s immigration system.
Express Entry–Linked Streams
Certain NBPNP streams are connected to the national Express Entry system. Eligible applicants may receive a Notification of Interest (NOI) from New Brunswick, followed by a provincial nomination that awards an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points—practically guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Designed to support Atlantic Canada’s economic objectives, the AIP enables employers in New Brunswick to hire foreign skilled workers without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This program provides a streamlined path to permanent residence for both skilled and intermediate-level workers.
Other Pathways: Family and Study Routes
Immigration opportunities extend beyond employment-based options.
- Family sponsorship allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents in New Brunswick to sponsor spouses, partners, dependent children, or other eligible relatives.
- Study-to-immigration routes enable international students enrolled at recognized New Brunswick institutions to secure a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which in turn may lead to permanent residence through provincial or federal channels.
By offering these diverse pathways—from targeted provincial nomination to family and educational routes—New Brunswick continues to foster sustainable growth and support newcomers across a spectrum of backgrounds and aspirations.
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
The New Brunswick PNP offers tailored pathways for skilled professionals, Express Entry candidates, and entrepreneurs. Successful provincial nomination paves the way to permanent resident status through the federal system.
Skilled Worker Stream
The Skilled Worker Stream caters to individuals with a job offer in New Brunswick, spanning three sub-streams (New Brunswick Experience, Graduates, and Priority Occupations). Updates for 2025 include:
- Minimum age: lowered to 19 years (from 22)
- Work requirement: at least 12 consecutive months of full-time employment in the province for many sub-streams
- Occupation exclusions: certain NOC codes, including administrative assistants and hospitality roles
- Invitation system: Expression of Interest (EOI) used, with draws focused on sectors like healthcare, construction, education, and trades
Express Entry Labor Market Stream
This stream is integrated with Canada’s Express Entry system and includes two paths:
- Employment in New Brunswick: Requires a job offer and at least 12 months’ local work experience
- New Brunswick Interests: Based on a Letter of Interest (LOI) issued through Express Entry profiles
Common eligibility standards include:
- CLB/NCLC 7 language proficiency
- Federal proof-of-funds
- High-school diploma equivalent
- Age between 19–55
- Minimum 67-point provincial selection grid score
An NBPNP nomination adds 600 CRS points, essentially guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence.
Entrepreneurial and Business Streams
Targeted at business-minded applicants, these streams require:
- A business plan demonstrating economic benefit
- Predetermined net worth and investment thresholds (varies by stream)
- Active operation and ownership of a business in New Brunswick
From Nomination to Permanent Residency
- Apply and receive nomination certificate from NBPNP.
- Accept the nomination, then apply to IRCC via Express Entry or directly for permanent residence.
- Under Express Entry, PR decisions are typically processed within six months.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program offers a practical, employer-driven route for skilled workers and international graduates aiming to settle in New Brunswick. It’s designed to help businesses overcome staffing hurdles while providing newcomers a direct avenue to permanent residence—without the delays of Labor Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs).
Why AIP Matters for New Brunswick
- Endorsed by province: AIP is administered jointly by federal and provincial governments to meet regional labor needs.
- Streamlined hiring: New Brunswick employers use AIP to recruit foreign talent for in-demand positions, bypassing federal LMIA requirements.
Eligibility and Job Offer Requirements
A successful AIP application hinges on several crucial criteria:
- Job offer: Must come from a designated employer in New Brunswick and be for full-time, non-seasonal work lasting at least one year.
- Work experience: Applicants should have a minimum of one year of experience in NOC TEER 0 – 4 roles within the previous five years; recent Atlantic Canada graduates may be exempt.
- Education and language: A high school diploma is essential (university credentials require ECA), plus proof of language proficiency—typically CLB 4 or higher.
- Settlement funds: Necessary to demonstrate financial stability, unless already working in Canada.
Key Advantages
- LMIA-exempt work permits: Candidates can begin working soon after endorsement without securing an LMIA.
- Faster processing times: While federal updates suggest around eight to eleven months, the AIP is still among Canada’s quicker pathways to PR.
- Settlement assistance: Employers connect applicants with local support services, helping families integrate into their new community.
Important Update for 2025
New Brunswick’s AIP reached its provincial cap of 1,250 endorsements by April 4, 2025. As a result:
- No new endorsements or employer designations are being accepted until further notice.
- Applications submitted before April 4 will continue through the process.
- New opportunities may re-open in 2026, while applicants can consider AIP streams in Nova Scotia, PEI, or Newfoundland & Labrador.
For prospective immigrants, the AIP remains an attractive and accessible route to Canadian permanent residency—provided they can secure a role with a designated employer. However, with NB’s 2025 intake paused, considering alternative provincial options or exploring NBPNP streams may be wise.
Express Entry and New Brunswick
Express Entry and New Brunswick
New Brunswick leverages the federal Express Entry system to attract skilled individuals who are prepared to make the province their long-term home. This synergy allows the province to tap into Canada’s robust talent pool while aligning with local labor demands.
Express Entry Labor Market Stream: Eligibility & Process
Through this stream, provincial selection is based on specific criteria:
- Express Entry profile held in one of the federal economic programs (FSW, CEC, or FST)
- Language abilities at CLB 7
- Education equivalent to a Canadian high-school diploma or higher
- One year of work experience in NOC 0, A, or B occupations
- Age between 19 and 55
- At least 67 points on NB’s internal selection grid
- Proof of settlement funds as per federal guidelines
Applicants either submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) or may be contacted directly if selected from the federal pool. Once invited, they have 60 days to apply for provincial nomination. Upon nomination acceptance, the CRS boost follows, and a federal PR application can be submitted, typically processed within six months.
Integration with Express Entry
The NBPNP offers two distinct Express Entry–linked pathways:
- Employment in New Brunswick: Applicants should have a full-time, non-seasonal TEER 0–3 job and at least 12 consecutive months of work experience in the province. They also need to have been physically resident in New Brunswick for that same period.
- New Brunswick Interests: This option allows the province to issue a Letter of Interest to select candidates already in the federal Express Entry pool—even without a job offer—if their profile aligns with NB’s labor needs.
CRS Scores: A Key Factor
Express Entry candidates accumulate a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, based on factors like age, education, language, and work history. Securing an NBPNP nomination adds 600 additional points, almost guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
By seamlessly combining federal and provincial frameworks, New Brunswick enhances its ability to recruit skilled talent effectively. Candidates with strong profiles and a willingness to live and work in NB stand to benefit significantly from this integrated pathway.
2025 Updates and Important Changes
Recent Revisions in Program Eligibility, Processing Durations, and Allocation Limits
Recent modifications affecting the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) criteria have been implemented in early 2025. These include heightened language proficiency benchmarks and more stringent educational equivalency assessments. Additionally, processing times have improved, with most applications now being adjudicated within three to five months, thanks to enhanced staffing and streamlined procedures. Allocations per category have also been redistributed: a higher quota has been assigned to skilled labor streams, while express entry-linked streams have been slightly downsized to balance priorities.
Influence of Canada’s 2025 Immigration Goals on New Brunswick
Canada’s target to welcome approximately 550,000 new permanent residents in 2025 has notably influenced provincial planning in New Brunswick. Reflecting federal ambitions, the province has increased its PNP nomination targets by 15 percent, focusing on high-demand occupations such as healthcare, IT, and trades. This expanded ambition supports New Brunswick’s labor market needs while aligning with national growth imperatives.
Provincial Innovations and Pilot Programs
New Brunswick has recently unveiled several pioneering initiatives to bolster immigration success:
- Rural Integration Pilot: This pilot program expedites nominations for international graduates and seasoned immigrants who settle and work in select rural communities—such as Miramichi, Bathurst, and Campbellton. The program emphasizes economic contribution and long-term retention.
- French-Language Retention Initiative: To strengthen the province’s bilingual fabric, incentives are now offered to French-speaking newcomers. These include supplementary language training, access to mentorship schemes, and a one-time relocation subsidy.
- Tech Talent Attraction Scheme: Partnering with local technology companies, the province now fast-tracks applicants employed in eligible tech roles. This scheme provides priority processing lanes and subsidized credentials recognition.
These recent adjustments reflect New Brunswick’s commitment to adapt its immigration approach to evolving demographic and economic challenges. Through refined selection measures, quota increases, and innovative programs, the province is proactively positioning itself to attract and integrate newcomers essential to its long-term prosperity.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step-by-Step Application Process
Embarking on your immigration journey to New Brunswick through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or the Express Entry stream requires careful planning and attention to detail. The process can be straightforward—provided each stage is approached methodically and with a clear understanding of what’s expected.
Laying the Groundwork
Begin by identifying the immigration stream that aligns with your qualifications—whether it's a skilled worker pathway, an international graduate route, or an employer-supported nomination. Before you apply, review the latest provincial and federal requirements, as eligibility criteria can vary slightly from year to year. In 2025, New Brunswick continues to prioritize applicants with strong ties to the province, relevant work experience, and demonstrable settlement potential.
Organizing Key Documentation
Documentation is the backbone of a successful application. It’s essential to gather and validate the following:
- Language Proficiency: Ensure your results from an approved test—such as IELTS, CELPIP (for English), or TEF Canada (for French)—are current and meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) levels required for your stream. Results must be less than two years old at the time of submission.
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): Have your academic qualifications evaluated by a recognized agency like WES, ICES, or IQAS. Your ECA must confirm that your foreign education is equivalent to a Canadian credential.
- Employment Offer (if applicable): If applying through an employer-driven stream, secure a valid job offer from a New Brunswick-based employer. The offer must be genuine, full-time, and align with the province's labour market needs.
- Supporting Records: Maintain accurate copies of passports, reference letters, proof of funds, and any provincial endorsements or expression of interest (EOI) confirmations.
Timeliness and Accuracy Are Crucial
In 2025, immigration authorities are placing increased emphasis on complete and truthful applications. Any discrepancies, missing documents, or expired certificates can lead to delays—or worse, a refusal. It’s advisable to double-check submission deadlines and ensure your application package is consistent and fully documented.
Meeting timelines is not just about bureaucracy; it reflects your preparedness and commitment. Many streams operate on rolling intakes or fixed quotas, and applications are processed in the order they are received. Late or incomplete submissions can mean waiting another year.
Tips for Success and Common Challenges
Tips for Success and Common Challenges
Immigrating to New Brunswick can be a transformative step, but navigating the process demands strategic preparation and awareness of common setbacks. The following insights aim to equip prospective applicants with the practical tools and foresight needed to approach the process with clarity and confidence.
Strengthening Your Profile:
Improving your eligibility starts with identifying and addressing the areas most valued by both federal and provincial programs. Language proficiency remains a cornerstone of Canadian immigration. In 2025, the bar for language scores—particularly for Express Entry and New Brunswick’s skilled worker streams—has slightly risen. Consider enrolling in targeted language training programs and taking official tests more than once, if necessary, to maximize your score.
In parallel, job market alignment can significantly boost your chances. Stay informed about occupations in demand within the province—such as roles in healthcare, construction, and IT—and tailor your résumé and cover letters to Canadian standards. Networking through online platforms like Job Bank, Working NB, and even LinkedIn can help you connect with local employers and gain valuable leads.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
A surprising number of applications are delayed or rejected due to avoidable oversights. Among the most frequent pitfalls:
- Submitting incomplete or inconsistent documentation (e.g., outdated forms, expired language results, or missing reference letters).
- Overlooking the province-specific requirements while focusing solely on federal criteria.
- Misrepresenting information, whether deliberately or inadvertently—a serious offence that can result in a five-year ban from reapplying.
When to Seek Professional Support
While it’s entirely possible to navigate the process independently, many applicants find that enlisting the help of an experienced immigration consultant or licensed lawyer adds significant value. With policy updates, program nuances, and shifting provincial priorities, a regulated professional can help interpret eligibility criteria, guide document preparation, and prevent procedural missteps.
In 2025, immigration pathways are more dynamic than ever. Working with someone familiar with the latest changes can be the difference between a smooth process and months of avoidable delays.
Conclusion
In 2025, New Brunswick remains a highly attractive destination for immigrants seeking a balanced lifestyle, growing job opportunities, and a supportive community. With its targeted programs, expanding labor market, and commitment to newcomer integration, the province offers a clear and promising path to permanent residency. Starting the process early, staying up to date with evolving requirements, and seeking professional guidance when needed can greatly enhance your chances of success. With careful planning, New Brunswick can be the ideal place to build your future in Canada.
FAQ about Immigrate to Canada (New Brunswick)
What are the main immigration streams available for New Brunswick in 2025?
New Brunswick offers pathways through the Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP), including streams for skilled workers, international graduates, and Express Entry-linked candidates.
Do I need a job offer to immigrate to New Brunswick?
While a job offer strengthens your application—especially for employer-driven streams—it is not always mandatory. Express Entry candidates with strong profiles may qualify without one.
How long does the application process usually take in 2025?
Processing times vary by stream, but most complete applications are processed within 3 to 6 months, thanks to recent system improvements.
Can I apply if I don’t speak French?
Yes. While French language skills are an asset, especially for Francophone-targeted initiatives, many programs in New Brunswick are open to English-speaking applicants. Proficiency in either official language is required.
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