New Brunswick has officially begun reopening its immigration streams after a temporary halt caused by federal allocation adjustments. The province, which was granted only 2,750 immigration nomination spaces for 2025, has been forced to prioritize key sectors and restrict participation in certain occupations.
Breakdown of Immigration Allocations
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP): 1,500 nominations
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): 1,250 nominations
Acting Minister of Post-Secondary Education, Jean-Claude D’Amours, expressed concern over the significant reduction in allocations, stating that it will limit economic growth and the ability to meet labor market demands. As a result, the province will focus on sectors like healthcare, education, and construction while restricting applications from certain occupations.
Updates on Immigration Streams
| Stream | Status | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| New Brunswick Express Entry | Opening soon | Accepting Expressions of Interest (EOIs) under two pathways: Employment in New Brunswick & New Brunswick Interests. Certain occupations are restricted. |
| New Brunswick Strategic Initiative | Paused | No new EOIs due to sufficient inventory. |
| Private Career College Graduate Program | Open | Accepting EOIs, will end in autumn 2025. |
| New Brunswick Skilled Worker | Reopened | Now has three pathways: Work Experience, Graduates, and Priority Occupations. |
| New Brunswick Business Immigration | Open | Requires business operation for at least six months before applying. |
| New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot | Open | Accepting applications. |
| Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) | Open | Accepting applications. |
New Restrictions & Eligibility Changes
While the Express Entry and Skilled Worker streams will reopen, some occupations will no longer be eligible for nomination. These include:
Accounting Technicians & Bookkeepers (NOC 12200) Restaurant & Food Service Managers (NOC 60030) Cooks & Bakers (NOC 63200, 63202) Food Service Supervisors (NOC 62020) Administrative Assistants (NOC 13110)
Additionally, the Student Connection pathway and Exploratory Visit program have been discontinued for 2025.
Future Possibilities for Allocation Changes
While the federal government has yet to revise New Brunswick’s allocation, discussions are ongoing. Other provinces, like Newfoundland and Labrador, successfully negotiated an increase in their allocations by agreeing to take in humanitarian immigrants. If New Brunswick follows suit, it may be able to restore some of its lost nomination spaces.
Next Steps for Applicants
Stay updated on program openings through New Brunswick’s official immigration website. Apply early, as demand is expected to be high. Seek professional immigration guidance for eligibility and best application strategies.
Despite the restricted allocations, New Brunswick remains an attractive destination for skilled workers and business investors. The reopening of key immigration programs signals continued opportunities for those looking to build a future in the province.
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