Two Atlantic provinces have made headlines this week in the field of Canada immigration, as both Newfoundland and Labrador and New Brunswick conducted active rounds of PNP draws, inviting hundreds of skilled workers and international graduates to move one step closer to Canadian permanent residency.
Newfoundland and Labrador, in particular, has launched its new Expression of Interest (EOI) system, issuing its first-ever batch of invitations under the modernized system. Meanwhile, New Brunswick continued its momentum with multiple targeted PNP draws throughout the week.
These developments mark significant progress for individuals looking to settle in Canada through the Provincial Nominee Program, especially as the federal Express Entry cut-offs remain competitive.
Newfoundland and Labrador Launches New EOI System
On April 8, 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador conducted its inaugural round of invitations using its newly introduced Expression of Interest (EOI) system.
The province invited a total of 256 candidates under the following immigration programs:
| Immigration Program | Number of Invitations Issued |
|---|---|
| Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) | 206 |
| Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) | 50 |
| Total | 256 |
Key Highlights:
- The EOI system was officially launched in February 2025.
- Invitations were sent to candidates with full-time job offers in high-demand occupations.
Special focus was placed on:
- Applicants are currently living in Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Candidates with offers in rural or remote communities.
- Graduates from post-secondary institutions within the province.
The province emphasized that this new system is part of a streamlined approach to manage economic immigration, helping Newfoundland and Labrador meet evolving labor demands despite limited federal application quotas.
Previously, candidates could apply directly for Canadian permanent residency through provincial pathways. With the EOI pool in place, only those selected by the province will be invited to apply under the new framework.
New Brunswick Conducts Multiple PNP Draws
Between April 6 and April 12, New Brunswick carried out several PNP draws, targeting a wide range of sectors under different immigration streams.
Draw Dates and Streams:
| Draw Date | PNP Stream | Invitations Issued |
|---|---|---|
| April 7-8 | NB Skilled Worker Stream – New Brunswick Experience | Included in 432 total |
| April 7-8 | NB Skilled Worker Stream – New Brunswick Graduates | Included in 432 total |
| April 9 | NB Express Entry Stream – Employment in New Brunswick | 45 |
| Total | 477 |
Targeted Occupations:
The province focused on candidates from several in-demand fields:
- Construction trades
- Education, Social and Community Services
- Healthcare
- IT and tech
- Manufacturing
- Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Forestry
- Transportation
- Professional roles under NOC codes 1000 and 2000 within TEER 0, 1, and 2 categories
Additional Considerations:
- Preference was given to those with valid work permits expiring in 2025.
- For the Express Entry stream, candidates were required to be working full-time in New Brunswick for at least 12 months.
These draws support the province’s ongoing efforts to fill labor gaps while offering eligible applicants a chance to secure a Provincial Nominee Program nomination — a direct route to Canadian permanent residency.
Why These Updates Matter for Canada Immigration Applicants
With the federal Express Entry system’s CRS score often exceeding 520, many aspiring immigrants are turning to PNP draws for a more practical pathway to Canadian permanent residency.
Both Newfoundland and Labrador and New Brunswick are offering accessible routes for skilled workers, international graduates, and foreign nationals with relevant job offers.
These recent PNP activities reflect the provinces’ strategic focus on:
- Regional development
- Population retention in smaller communities
- Meeting specific labor shortages
For candidates seeking to immigrate to Canada in 2025, applying through the Expression of Interest process in either province offers a timely opportunity to fast-track their PR journey.
PNP Draw Summary: April 6–12, 2025
| Province | Program | Invitations | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newfoundland & Labrador | NLPNP + AIP | 256 | First draw using new EOI system; rural and local job offers prioritized |
| New Brunswick | NBPNP (multiple streams) | 477 | Multiple draws across job sectors and Express Entry-linked pathways |
Conclusion: What This Means for Your PR Dreams
The latest updates from Newfoundland and New Brunswick prove that the Provincial Nominee Program continues to be one of the most flexible and promising routes for obtaining Canadian permanent residency.
With active PNP draws, modern EOI systems, and opportunities for in-demand workers, now is an ideal time to explore Canadian immigration through provincial pathways.
How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help You
Navigating the Canadian immigration process can be complex. That’s where Visa Solutions 4u comes in. Our team of experts specializes in helping you:
- Identify the right Provincial Nominee Program for your profile
- Craft and submit your Expression of Interest
- Optimize your chances of getting invited to PNP draws
- Prepare accurate documentation for Canadian permanent residency
- Stay updated with the latest changes in Canadian immigration
Whether you're a skilled worker, international student, or already working in Canada, Visa Solutions 4u provides end-to-end support to help you realize your dream of settling in Canada.
