New Brunswick First Provincial Draws of 2025

New Brunswick has kicked off 2025 with a significant immigration initiative, conducting its first provincial draws on March 5 and 6, 2025. Through the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP), the province issued 498 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to skilled workers in key sectors. 

This move underscores New Brunswick’s commitment to addressing labor shortages and supporting economic growth by attracting professionals who can contribute to the province’s development.

Key Highlights of the Draw

• • Date: March 5–6, 2025
  • Streams: NB Skilled Worker – NB Experience Stream and NB Skilled Worker – NB Graduates Stream

• Selected Occupations:

• • Healthcare: Nurses, doctors, and other medical professionals are in high demand to support the province’s healthcare system.
  • Education and Social & Community Services: Teachers, social workers, and community service providers are needed to enhance educational outcomes and social support.
  • Construction Trades: Skilled tradespeople, such as electricians, plumbers, and carpenters, are essential for ongoing infrastructure projects.
• Total ITAs Issued: 498
• Application Deadline: Candidates must submit complete applications within 45 days.

How the New Brunswick PNP Works

The NBPNP operates through an Expression of Interest (EOI) system, where candidates submit their profiles via the Immigration New Brunswick (INB) portal. 

Applications are evaluated based on labor market needs, available allocations, and other economic factors. Meeting eligibility criteria does not guarantee an invitation; only selected candidates receive ITAs.

New Brunswick Experience Stream

This stream targets individuals working full-time in non-seasonal positions for eligible New Brunswick employers. 

To qualify, candidates must have worked for the same employer for at least six consecutive months while living in New Brunswick and have employer support for their permanent residence application.

New Brunswick Graduate Stream

This stream is designed for graduates of designated learning institutions (DLIs) in New Brunswick who have completed a post-graduation work permit (PGWP)-eligible program. 

Eligible candidates must be working full-time for an eligible employer or have a job offer in a non-seasonal position.

New Brunswick has made adjustments to its immigration strategies in response to a reduced provincial nomination allocation for 2025. 

The focus remains on attracting skilled workers in critical sectors, ensuring that newcomers can effectively integrate into the local workforce and contribute to economic growth. 

Despite these changes, the province continues to conduct regular draws, prioritizing sectors with labor shortages.

Impact on Immigration Trends

The emphasis on healthcare, education, and construction reflects broader Canadian immigration trends, which prioritize these sectors due to their critical role in national economic and social development. 

New Brunswick’s approach aligns with federal priorities, ensuring that the province remains an attractive destination for skilled immigrants seeking permanent residency in Canada.

New Brunswick’s first provincial draws of 2025 demonstrate a strategic effort to address labor gaps and support economic development by targeting high-demand occupations. 

The province’s proactive approach to immigration is expected to yield positive outcomes for both the local economy and the newcomers it welcomes.