Nova Scotia Immigration 2025: 1,300+ PNP Spots Still Open

Nova Scotia Immigration 2025: Over 1,300 Spots Still Available Despite High Demand

Nova Scotia remains a top choice for newcomers looking to build a life in Atlantic Canada. Despite a reduced allocation from the federal government, the province still has 1,312 immigration spots open for 2025 through its two main immigration pathways: the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).

With almost 10,000 Expressions of Interest (EOIs) already in the queue, competition is heating up. Let’s take a closer look at what this means for potential immigrants, especially those eyeing Nova Scotia as their future home.

Key Highlights

• Nova Scotia has 1,312 immigration spaces remaining for 2025.
• The province was allocated 3,150 total spots this year—a 50% drop from 2024.
• So far, 1,838 spots have been used across the NSNP and AIP.
• Over 9,700 EOIs are currently awaiting processing.
• The Skilled Worker and Express Entry streams under NSNP are seeing the highest interest.
• Nova Scotia is prioritizing applicants in healthcare, construction, and select industries.

Reduced Allocation, High Demand: What’s Happening in 2025?

In 2025, Nova Scotia received a total of 3,150 spots across both the NSNP and AIP—considerably fewer than in 2024, when numbers were nearly double. As of August 6, 1,838 of those spots have already been filled, leaving 1,312 available for the rest of the year.

Here’s how the 2025 allocation breaks down:

• Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): 1,765 spots
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): 1,365 spots

But even with fewer spots to offer, interest in immigrating to Nova Scotia hasn’t slowed down. As of early August, the province had a whopping 9,774 EOIs in its system—more than triple the number of remaining places.

Which Streams Are the Busiest?

The NSNP’s Skilled Worker and Experience: Express Entry streams are drawing the most attention. Together, they account for more than 5,000 of the total EOIs in the system. Add to that the 2,600+ EOIs under AIP, and it’s clear just how competitive the process is this year.

Here’s a snapshot of EOIs pending by stream:

It’s worth noting that Nova Scotia did not provide updated figures for the Labour Market Priorities stream or the Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot, so the actual number of pending applications may be even higher.

How Nova Scotia Selects Applicants

With demand far surpassing supply, the province has to be selective. When assessing applications, Nova Scotia considers several key factors:

• Current labour market needs—especially in healthcare and construction
• Regional priorities within the province
• How complete and timely the application is
• Remaining spaces in the program
• The likelihood that the applicant will stay in Nova Scotia long-term

Nova Scotia hasn’t shared exactly how many nominations have come through NSNP versus endorsements under AIP, but both streams remain essential parts of the province’s immigration strategy.

What’s the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)?

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program is a provincial immigration stream that enables skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates to apply for permanent residence. The program includes 11 different streams, some of which are aligned with the federal Express Entry system.

Eligibility varies by stream, but most require:

• A valid job offer from an employer in Nova Scotia
• Relevant work experience
• Language proficiency in English or French
• Enough settlement funds

After receiving a nomination, candidates have up to 12 months to apply for permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Processing times are typically 8 months for Express Entry candidates and up to 20 months for non-Express Entry applicants.

Interested in other PNPs? Check out our Manitoba PNP resource to compare options.

Understanding the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The Atlantic Immigration Program is a federal-provincial partnership that helps employers in Atlantic Canada hire foreign workers and international graduates. What sets AIP apart is that it’s employer-driven—meaning you must have a job offer from a designated employer to apply.

To qualify, you’ll need:

• Work experience or recent graduation from a recognized Atlantic institution
• A job offer endorsed by the province
• Language test results
• Settlement funds and a settlement plan

Applicants can also get a special, LMIA-exempt work permit that allows them to work while their PR application is processed. The current wait time for AIP applications is around 13 months.

Who Gets Priority?

In July 2025, Nova Scotia announced it will prioritize immigrants who are already living and working in the province, particularly those in sectors like:

• Healthcare and social assistance (NAICS 62)
• Construction (NAICS 23)

If you’re applying from outside the province, you’ll still be considered—especially if you’re in healthcare or construction. Employers hiring in trucking, science and tech, clean energy, and resource development sectors may also receive special consideration.

Thinking About Immigrating to Nova Scotia?

With limited spots and high interest, it’s more important than ever to ensure your application is strong and complete. Nova Scotia is actively seeking newcomers who can fill key labour shortages and are committed to building a future in the province.

If you’re considering immigration through the NSNP or AIP, now’s a good time to assess your eligibility and prepare your documents. The earlier you act, the better your chances of securing one of the remaining spots for 2025.

Learn more about your eligibility for Nova Scotia immigration programs or speak with an expert today.

Ready to take the next step? Discover if you’re eligible for Canadian immigration and start planning your future in beautiful Nova Scotia.