Immigrating to Nova Scotia

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is the first step in a two-step application process for a permanent resident visa to Canada. It is used to recruit and select immigrants who intend to settle in Nova Scotia.

Step 1: Apply to the Nova Scotia Nominee Program

The NSNP allows the Government of Nova Scotia to nominate applicants who can meet the province’s labour market and economic needs. The processing time for eligible applications can be completed within two months. Nominated applicants, along with their spouse and dependents, may become permanent residents following approval by the Canadian government.

Step 2: Apply to Citizenship and Immigration Canada for a permanent resident visa

If you are nominated by the Province of Nova Scotia, you may then apply to Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) for a permanent resident visa. In some cases, you may be asked to go for an interview. You, your spouse and dependents must meet requirements for medical, security and criminal admissibility. CIC has the final authority to issue a permanent resident visa.

You willl find additional information on the following link Application for Permanent Residence - Provincial Nominee Program.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

As of December 1, 2011, once you have been nominated by the Government of Nova Scotia, you must submit your application for permanent residence to the Citizenship and Immigration Canada Centralized Intake Office.

Please note that there are additional forms to submit with your federal application as seen on the checklist at www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/forms/IMM5690E.pdf

The addresses for this office are:

Mailing Address:
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Provincial Nominee Program
Centralized Intake Office
PO BOX 1450
Sydney, NS B1P 0C9
Canada

Courier:
Citizenship and Immigration Canada
Provincial Nominee Program
Centralized Intake Office
47-49 Dorchester Street
Sydney, NS B1P 5Z2
Canada

Processing times for provincial nominee applications processed by visa offices outside Canada can be found here. 

Nova Scotia Nominee Program Streams

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program streams are open to qualified skilled workers and other immigrants who meet community needs.
 
Skilled Worker
For skilled workers who have a full-time job offer from a Nova Scotia employer.
 
International Graduate
For international graduates who have a full-time job offer from a Nova Scotia employer and have been working for the employer for at least three months.
 
Community Identified
For individuals who have significant employment prospects, have a strong connection to a particular Nova Scotia community and have received a Letter of Identification from an Office of Immigration mandated organization.
 
Family Business Worker
For workers who have received a full-time job offer from a Nova Scotia business owned by a close relative.
 
Non-Dependent Child of Nova Scotia Nominee
For individuals who are non-dependent adult children of Nova Scotia nominees who wish to enter the labour market and contribute to the economy of the province.
 
Agri-Food Sector
For immigrants who plan to establish a business in Nova Scotia in the agriculture sector for primary and/or value added production.