Newfoundland and Labrador Expands Immigration Quota, Launches New EOI Draws
A New Chapter in Atlantic Canada's Immigration Strategy
Newfoundland and Labrador is rapidly reshaping its approach to skilled immigration, with the recent rollout of a modernized Expression of Interest (EOI) system now driving the selection process for its key permanent residency programs.
In its latest development, the province conducted its second draw under the new system on May 8, 2025, issuing 328 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to qualified candidates seeking to settle and work in the region. This marks another major step in aligning immigration with labour market needs and population sustainability goals.
EOI Draw Results: May 8 Breakdown
| Program | Invitations Issued |
|---|---|
| Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) | 281 |
| Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) | 47 |
| Total | 328 |
This follows a prior draw held on April 3, which issued 256 invitations, demonstrating consistency in the province’s efforts to meet its revised annual target.
Modern System, Smarter Selection
Adopted in February 2025, the province’s new EOI system introduces a structured pre-screening stage. Rather than accepting direct applications, prospective immigrants must now create an online profile through the Immigration Accelerator platform. Once submitted, EOIs remain valid in the system for 12 months.
Provincial Advocacy Secures Increased Quota
This increased capacity will allow the province to maintain momentum in attracting skilled newcomers critical to industries such as healthcare, trades, information technology, and early childhood education.
Key Notes for Applicants and Employers
- Applicants outside Canada must obtain an invite code from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer before submitting their EOI under either the NLPNP or AIP.
- Applicants already in Canada with valid temporary status do not require this code when applying through the NLPNP.
It’s important to understand that receiving an ITA is not a guarantee of permanent residency. Candidates must prove eligibility under program criteria and meet Canada’s admissibility standards.
Draws Held and Invitations Issued
- April 7-8 Draws (432 Invitations):
- NB Skilled Worker Stream – New Brunswick Experience
- NB Skilled Worker Stream – New Brunswick Graduates
- April 9 Draw (45 Invitations):
- NB Express Entry Stream – Employment in New Brunswick
Occupations in Focus
- Construction Trades
- Healthcare
- Education and Social & Community Services
Additionally, New Brunswick targeted candidates with work permits expiring in 2025 in several key industries, such as:
- Information Technology (IT)
- Transportation
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Forestry
- Professional Occupations (particularly under NOC categories 1000 and 2000, within TEER levels 0, 1, and 2)
Candidates under the Express Entry draw were required to demonstrate 12 months of continuous, full-time employment with a New Brunswick employer to be eligible.
Strategic Provincial Efforts to Fill Labour Gaps
Backlog over The Past six Months
For a broader perspective, here is the trajectory of the backlog over the past six months:
| Month | Immigration Backlog | Change Relative to Previous Month |
|---|---|---|
| September 2024 | 1,097,000 | +1.73% |
| October 2024 | 1,056,100 | -3.73% |
| November 2024 | 1,006,500 | -4.70% |
| December 2024 | 942,300 | -6.38% |
| January 2025 | 892,100 | -5.33% |
| February 2025 | 821,200 | -7.95% |
Looking Ahead: A Data-Driven Approach to Immigration
The shift to an EOI-based system marks a strategic pivot in Newfoundland and Labrador’s immigration philosophy — prioritizing demand-driven selection, faster response times, and better integration of newcomers into the provincial workforce.
Recent News
- New Brunswick Secures 1,500 More Immigration Spots for 2025 Through Federal Deal
- Ontario Restarts PNP Invitations and Announces Major Shift to Employer-Led Immigration Process
- Manitoba Holds Targeted Immigration Draw for Skilled Workers Overseas
- Ontario Overhauls Immigration Job Offer Streams
- Canada Conducts Major Express Entry Draw Targeting Canadian Work Experience Holders
