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HomeRead OnNew Brunswick in Canada Stops Issuing ITAs for Express Entry PNP

New Brunswick in Canada Stops Issuing ITAs for Express Entry PNP


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New Brunswick in Canada Stops Issuing ITAs for Express Entry PNP

Effective August 16, New Brunswick has temporarily suspended the issuance of ITAs for the Express Entry PNP program. This decision marks a significant change in New Brunswick’s immigration strategy, particularly for those considering applying to the PNP program’s Express Entry stream for Canadian permanent residency.

All of the ITAs allocated to candidates in this stream have been exhausted, according to the province’s announcement. However, New Brunswick has not yet disclosed its 2024 allocation figures.

Applications received by Friday, August 16, 2024, will be processed as usual. In addition, candidates are strongly encouraged to submit their complete nomination application if they have received an ITA prior to this date.

What’s the reason for the pause?

The temporary suspension is implemented to effectively manage and optimize the processing of applications. Given the large number of Expressions of Interest (EOIs) received, the program required a break to ensure effective management. Take advantage of this opportunity to consider the Atlantic Immigration Program as a viable option for foreign nationals and employers during this pause.

The Express Entry Stream in New Brunswick

There are three streams available under the Express Entry system in New Brunswick. Applicants need to be in the federal Express Entry pool, which can be achieved through the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, or the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Each stream has its own unique set of requirements.

  • The NB Employment Connection stream: This is designed for individuals who have been living in New Brunswick for at least six months and either currently have a full-time job or have received a full-time job offer from a New Brunswick employer.
  • The NB Student Connection stream: This stream is designed for international students who have successfully completed approved programs at institutions in New Brunswick and meet the requirements for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
  • NB Priorities Connection: This stream is specifically designed for applicants who can showcase their skills that are in demand in New Brunswick’s labour market. If you meet this criterion, you may receive a letter of interest.

Different Methods to Apply for the NB PNP

In recent years, New Brunswick has become increasingly popular as an immigration destination. The 2021 Census revealed that a significant portion of the population consisted of foreign-born immigrants with permanent status, totaling 44,125 individuals, which accounted for 5.8% of the population. Additionally, there were 10,855 non-permanent residents, making up 1.4% of the population. This year’s number of immigrants is more than double the amount from ten years ago, which was 28,465 in 2011.

There has been a significant rise in interest in New Brunswick’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) this year. The province announced on May 17 that the Expressions of Interest for the New Brunswick Skilled Worker stream will be temporarily suspended. This is to allow the immigration service sufficient time to handle the increasing number of applications being received.

Before diving into this stream, newcomers should assess their eligibility for the Atlantic Immigration Program.

Individuals still have an opportunity to immigrate to New Brunswick under the New Brunswick Strategic Initiative Stream within the PNP. This stream is designed for individuals who possess a strong command of the French language and have a desire to reside and work in New Brunswick for an extended duration.

In addition, the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Program was introduced in November 2022, offering an alternative pathway. This employer-driven stream aims to address critical labour shortages in key industries. The application needs to be submitted to the provincial government by one of the six participating employers on behalf of the candidate. The candidate must first receive a job offer from one of these employers in order to be eligible.

What is the impact of the pause on existing applicants?

  • Applications Submitted Before August 16, 2024: Applicants who have submitted their applications prior to this date will have their applications processed without any disruptions. Rest assured, the pause will not have any impact on the existing submissions of these candidates. The processing of these applications will continue as scheduled.
  • Applicants who have already received an Invitation to Apply (ITA): Applicants who have received an ITA prior to August 16, 2024, are still welcome to submit their complete application for nomination to the program. There is no negative impact on their ability to continue with their immigration process. It is crucial for these candidates to carefully adhere to all the deadlines and requirements in order to successfully advance their applications for provincial nomination.

Options for Applicants

Have a look at the Atlantic Immigration Program

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a great option for individuals impacted by the temporary halt. This program aims to assist employers in Atlantic Canada in recruiting foreign-skilled workers. This option is suitable for many as it covers occupations classified under NOC TEERs 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Opportunities for French-Speaking Candidates

Invitations will continue to be issued to eligible French-speaking candidates, despite the temporary halt. Candidates must demonstrate a proficiency level of NCLC 4 in all four language competencies through TEF or TCF language test results to qualify. In addition, a valid job or job offer in TEER positions 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 is required.

Understanding New Brunswick’s Skilled Worker Stream

The New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream is intended for foreign nationals with the skills, education, and work experience required to contribute to the province’s economy. Here is a step-by-step workflow map for this stream.

Step-by-step process

  • Receive an offer of employment: Receive a genuine, full-time, non-seasonal employment offer from a New Brunswick firm.
  • Be PR-Ready: Make sure you meet all qualifying conditions and have all required documents ready to submit.
  • Submit an expression of interest (EOI): If your PR is complete, send an EOI to the NBPNP.
  • Get an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If chosen, you will be given an ITA, which will allow you to formally apply to the NBPNP.
  • Submit your provincial application: Fill out and submit your application to the Government of New Brunswick.
  • Receive a Decision from New Brunswick: Wait for the decision on your provincial application.
  • Submit your federal application: If you are nominated, apply for permanent residence with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  • Receive a Decision from IRCC: Wait for the final decision on your federal application for permanent residence.

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