NSNP 2026: Nova Scotia Nominee Program
A Nova Scotia nomination can be your fastest route to permanent residence. We match you to the right NSNP stream and plan your path from nomination to PR.
Comparing provinces? See all Provincial Nominee Programs
Nova Scotia Nominee Program
What it is
The NSNP lets the province of Nova Scotia nominate skilled workers, in-demand occupations, physicians, and entrepreneurs for permanent residence. A nomination is a powerful boost to your application.
How it works
Depending on the stream, you apply directly or are selected from the Express Entry pool. If nominated, you apply to IRCC for permanent residence. We plan both stages with you.
Who can qualify
- Express Entry candidates in target occupations
- Skilled workers with a Nova Scotia job offer
- Physicians recruited by health authorities
- Workers in in-demand occupations
- Entrepreneurs and graduate entrepreneurs
NSNP streams
Nova Scotia runs several pathways. Choosing the right one for your profile is where a strong application starts.
Labour Market Priorities
Selects Express Entry candidates in occupations Nova Scotia targets, often without needing a job offer.
Nova Scotia Experience
Express Entry stream for candidates with recent Nova Scotia work experience.
Physician stream
For physicians recruited by the Nova Scotia Health Authority or the IWK Health Centre.
Entrepreneur streams
For experienced entrepreneurs and international graduate entrepreneurs who want to run a business in Nova Scotia.
NSNP requirements
Requirements differ by stream. These are the factors that decide most NSNP applications.
A targeted occupation
Labour Market Priorities draws focus on occupations Nova Scotia needs. Your occupation and NOC affect eligibility.
Express Entry profile
Several streams require an active federal Express Entry profile alongside meeting the stream criteria.
Language and education
An approved language test and, for foreign education, an Educational Credential Assessment are needed to meet stream minimums.
Work experience
Recent, relevant work experience is required, with specific rules for the Experience and Skilled Worker streams.
Job offer for some streams
The Skilled Worker and Physician streams need a Nova Scotia job offer; Labour Market Priorities may not.
A complete, consistent file
Small inconsistencies across your registration, forms, and proof documents are a common reason applications stall. We audit the file before submission.
How the NSNP process works
Confirm your stream
We match your profile to the right NSNP stream and confirm your occupation and eligibility.
Prepare your profile
We prepare your Express Entry profile or stream application and gather your supporting documents.
Apply for nomination
When Nova Scotia invites you or your stream opens, we prepare the full nomination application.
Get nominated
A Nova Scotia nomination adds 600 CRS points through Express Entry streams, or lets you apply directly for permanent residence.
Apply to IRCC for permanent residence
We submit your federal PR application and track it through to a final decision.
How we can help
Before
- Unsure which NSNP stream fits
- Occupation may not be targeted
- Confused by NSNP vs Atlantic program
- Job offer that may not qualify
- Guessing at requirements from forums
After
- The right NSNP stream for your profile
- An optimized Express Entry profile
- The best route chosen for your case
- Eligibility confirmed before you apply
- A mapped path from nomination to PR
Ready to apply through the NSNP?
Every case begins with a consultation to confirm your stream, position your Express Entry profile, and set a realistic timeline from nomination to permanent residence.
Start NowFrequently asked questions
What is the NSNP?
The NSNP (Nova Scotia Nominee Program) is Nova Scotia's provincial nominee program. It nominates skilled workers, in-demand occupations, physicians, and entrepreneurs for Canadian permanent residence.
What are the NSNP streams?
The main streams include Labour Market Priorities (Express Entry-aligned), Nova Scotia Experience, Skilled Worker, the Physician stream, Occupations In-Demand, and Entrepreneur streams. Nova Scotia also joins the Atlantic Immigration Program.
How does the NSNP work with Express Entry?
Several NSNP streams draw from the federal Express Entry pool. A nomination adds 600 CRS points, which effectively guarantees an invitation to apply.
Do you need a job offer for the NSNP?
It depends on the stream. The Skilled Worker and Physician streams need a Nova Scotia job offer, while Labour Market Priorities can select Express Entry candidates without one.
How long does the NSNP take?
The NSNP has two stages: the provincial nomination, which varies by stream, then the federal PR application. The federal stage currently takes about 6 months as of September 2026.