Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) Application Guide

The NSNP is a program that permits Nova Scotia to nominate candidates matching its local economic and labor market needs. The successful nominee will be given a Provincial Nomination Certificate that significantly increases their chance of obtaining Canadian permanent residency.

Popular NSNP Streams:

1. Nova Scotia Labor Market Priority Stream (for skilled workers)
2. Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry (for those who have work experience in NS)
3. Physician Stream (for doctors)
4. Entrepreneur Stream (for business owners)
5. International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream (for graduates who want to start a business)

The Step-by-Step Process for Applying for the NSNP

Take a quick look at the following steps:

Step 1: Check your Eligibility

Different requirements pertain to different NSNP streams, and the general requirements are:

1. At least one year of work experience in an eligible occupation.
2. Language test results (IELTS/CELPIP for English and TEF for French).
3. Settlement funds (if asked).
4. Educational requirements (variations in accordance with the stream).

Step 2: Choose the Right NSNP Stream

Choose a stream that corresponds to your profile:

1. Express Entry Streams (if you have an active Express Entry profile).
2. Other (Non-Express Entry) NSNP Streams (if applying directly to NSNP).

Step 3: File an Expression of Interest (EOI) or Application

1. For some streams, like the Labor Market Priorities stream, you will need to wait for an official invitation. Others, such as the Entrepreneur Stream, allow for direct applications.

Step 4: Get Invited to Apply (ITA)

1. If you are selected, you will receive an ITA and have 60 days to submit the complete application.

Step 5: Submit the Complete Application

1. Collect all your documents and upload them as required (the list is mentioned above).

Step 6: Provincial Nomination

1. If your file is approved, Nova Scotia will nominate you, and you will receive an additional 600 CRS points (in connection with Express Entry).

Step 7: Prepare to Apply for Permanent Residence (PR)

1. Submit your application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

How Long Does the NSNP Application Process Take?

Total waiting times vary depending on the stream:

1. Express Entry streams: 1-3 months
2. Non-Express Entry streams: 3-6 months
3. Entrepreneur stream: More than 6 months
4. After nomination, IRCC PR processing takes 6-12 months

Would It Be Possible for You to Apply Without a Job Offer in Hand?

Absolutely! There are no job-offer requirements for some NSNP streams, such as:

1. Nova Scotia Labor Market Priorities Stream (if selected)
2. Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry (Work Experience in Nova Scotia)
3. International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream
4. Other cases of NSNP Streams may require a job offer.

Documents Required for NSNP

Documents generally required are:

1. ✔ Valid passport
2. ✔ English language assessment (IELTS & CELPIP) or French language assessment (TEF) results
3. ✔ Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) (if applicable)
4. ✔ Proof of work experience (reference letters, pay stubs)
5. ✔ Job offer letter (if required)
6. ✔ Proof of funds (bank statements)
7. ✔ Nova Scotia Nominee Program Application Form

Tips for a Successful NSNP Application

1. Check eligibility
2. Complete your application in full to avoid delays
3. Keep an eye out for updates on the NSNP—streams can close or open up at any time

If needed, please consult with an immigration professional.

In Conclusion

Determining a pathway to permanent residency through the Nova Scotia Nominee Program can be beneficial, especially for skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Increasing the chances of success in the application process will be much more relaxed after following these steps.