Nova Scotia Nominee Program

Last verified: Jul 4, 2026

Frequently asked questions

Which Nova Scotia streams are open?

Four, consolidated from ten on February 18, 2026: Skilled Worker, Nova Scotia Graduate, Entrepreneur, and Nova Scotia: Express Entry. Skilled Worker absorbed the Critical Construction Worker Pilot and the Physician Stream; Nova Scotia: Express Entry merged the former Experience, Labour Market Priorities, and Labour Market Priorities for Physicians streams. The change applies to Expressions of Interest submitted after that date.

Is there a points score for Nova Scotia?

No. Nova Scotia publishes no points grid and no ranking score. It runs periodic draws from the Expression of Interest pool guided by provincial priorities, remaining allocation, pool volume, and program integrity, and states that being selected does not guarantee approval.

Do I need a Nova Scotia job offer?

Skilled Worker requires a full-time permanent offer from a Nova Scotia employer, and Nova Scotia Graduate requires one in a listed job category matching your recent field of study. Nova Scotia: Express Entry requires no job offer on its skilled-work-experience path. Note that submissions in accommodation and food services have been paused since April 17, 2024 while the province works through its inventory.

Who is Nova Scotia prioritizing in 2026?

Healthcare and skilled trades at TEER 0 to 4 are the standing priority. A one-time expansion announced July 14, 2026 draws from Expressions of Interest submitted by June 30, 2026, targeting candidates already in the province whose work permit expires in 2026 or earlier: TEER 0 to 4 across several sectors, Nova Scotia graduates at TEER 0 to 5, candidates outside Halifax Regional Municipality at TEER 0 to 5, sales and service at TEER 0 to 2 earning at least $20 an hour, and any occupation paying at least $27 an hour.

How long does my Expression of Interest stay in the pool?

12 months, a validity period that took effect May 1, 2026. Expressions of Interest submitted before May 1, 2024 were closed on that date. After a nomination you have 30 days to accept it within the Express Entry system, and 12 months from the nominee certificate to apply to IRCC.