On This Page You Will Find
- Why Nova Scotia has expanded immigration selection
- Who may benefit from the one-time measure
- Which workers are eligible for consideration
- Why this is not a new application intake
- What candidates should do next
- How the Nova Scotia Nominee Program and Atlantic Immigration Program fit into the announcement
- Frequently asked questions
Nova Scotia has introduced a one-time expansion of its immigration selection priorities, giving some temporary foreign workers facing expiring work permits another opportunity to secure a provincial nomination or employer-backed pathway to permanent residence.
The province has broadened selection criteria under both the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) for eligible candidates already living and working in Nova Scotia.
However, this is not a new immigration intake.
Only candidates who had already submitted an eligible Expression of Interest (EOI) by June 30, 2026, may be considered. Nova Scotia will identify eligible candidates and contact those selected directly.
For workers concerned about their immigration future, the announcement offers renewed hope – but it does not guarantee an invitation.
Why Has Nova Scotia Expanded Selection?
The province says the temporary measure is designed to help workers who are already contributing to Nova Scotia’s economy while facing the prospect of their work permits expiring.
Rather than opening applications to new candidates, Nova Scotia is widening the range of people it may select from its existing EOI inventory.
The move also supports employers in sectors experiencing ongoing labour shortages by helping retain experienced workers who are already established in the province.
Who Can Be Considered?
To be eligible for this one-time expansion, candidates must already have:
- An active Expression of Interest.
- Submitted that EOI on or before June 30, 2026.
- Been living and working in Nova Scotia.
- A work permit expiring during 2026 or earlier.
Meeting these basic requirements does not automatically result in selection.
Nova Scotia will review eligible profiles and decide which candidates to invite.
Which Workers May Receive Consideration?
The province says candidates may receive additional consideration if they meet one or more of the following criteria.
Workers In Priority Industries
Candidates employed in TEER 0 to TEER 4 occupations supporting key sectors may be considered.
These sectors include:
- Manufacturing
- Construction
- Health care
- Agriculture
- Transportation
- Natural resources
These industries continue to face recruitment challenges across Nova Scotia, making worker retention an important priority.
Graduates Of Nova Scotia Institutions
International graduates who completed studies at a Nova Scotia educational institution may also benefit.
To qualify under this category, candidates must be working in a TEER 0 to TEER 5 occupation.
This recognises graduates who have already established themselves in the provincial labour market.
Workers Living Outside Halifax
Nova Scotia is also placing greater emphasis on regional immigration.
Candidates living outside the Halifax Regional Municipality may receive additional consideration as the province works to support economic growth in rural and smaller communities.
Sales And Service Workers
The expansion also includes certain sales and service occupations.
Eligible candidates must:
- Work in a TEER 0 to TEER 2 sales and service occupation.
- Earn at least $20 per hour.
This reflects continued labour needs across several customer-facing industries.
Higher-Wage Workers
Candidates working in any occupation may also receive consideration if they earn at least $27 per hour.
Unlike the other categories, this criterion is based primarily on wages rather than occupation.
This Is Not A New Immigration Intake
One of the most important points in Nova Scotia’s announcement is what it does not do.
The province has not opened applications to new candidates.
Anyone who did not submit an eligible Expression of Interest by June 30, 2026, cannot benefit from this one-time measure.
Likewise, candidates who meet all of the published criteria should not assume they will receive an invitation.
Nova Scotia will select candidates based on its own priorities and available nomination spaces.
What Happens Next?
Candidates do not need to submit a new Expression of Interest.
Instead, Nova Scotia will review eligible EOIs already in its system and contact selected candidates directly.
Those selected will receive further instructions about the next stage of the immigration process.
Candidates who are not contacted remain in the existing pool under the normal rules of the relevant immigration program.
What Should Eligible Workers Do Now?
If you believe you qualify, there is little action required immediately.
Instead, you should focus on ensuring you are ready if Nova Scotia contacts you.
That means:
- Monitoring the email account linked to your Expression of Interest.
- Making sure your contact details remain current.
- Keeping employment records and supporting documents up to date.
- Continuing to maintain legal status in Canada whenever possible.
- Speaking with your employer about any upcoming work permit expiry if applicable.
Candidates should also remember that provincial nomination is only one stage of the permanent residence process. Those selected must still satisfy all federal immigration requirements.
Why This Matters
Nova Scotia’s latest announcement highlights a growing trend across Canada.
Rather than launching broad new immigration intakes, provinces are increasingly using targeted selection to retain workers already contributing to local economies.
For temporary foreign workers whose permits are approaching expiry, this approach offers opportunities for some candidates while reinforcing the importance of maintaining an active Expression of Interest and keeping immigration documents current.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nova Scotia accepting new applications under this one-time expansion?
No. The province has not opened a new intake. Only candidates who submitted an eligible Expression of Interest by June 30, 2026, and meet the published criteria may be considered for selection.
Does meeting the eligibility criteria guarantee I will receive an invitation?
No. Nova Scotia has made it clear that selection is not automatic. Meeting the published criteria simply means you may be considered. The province will decide which candidates receive invitations based on its immigration priorities and available nomination spaces.
My work permit expires in 2026. Am I automatically eligible?
Not necessarily. Your work permit must expire in 2026 or earlier, but you must also have an active eligible Expression of Interest submitted by June 30, 2026, and meet at least one of the province’s selection priorities.
Will Nova Scotia contact me if I am selected?
Yes. Candidates chosen under the expanded selection criteria will be contacted directly by Nova Scotia. There is no separate application process for this one-time measure, so eligible workers should monitor their email and keep their contact information up to date.
Why is Nova Scotia focusing on workers already in the province?
The province is trying to retain workers who are already filling labour shortages and contributing to the economy. By selecting candidates already living and working in Nova Scotia, the government can support employers while helping eligible temporary residents transition to permanent residence.