Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador

The Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador immigration pathway was created  in 2021 in response to a growing demand from Newfoundland employers who are unable to meet growing demand for labour in priority sectors. Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, described the objectives of the new pathway, “This new focus in Priority Skills for immigration builds on the gathering momentum to attract and retain more newcomers with fresh ideas and perspectives for growth.”

Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador opened to applicants in January, 2021.

Eligibility Criteria: Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador

Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador has two major categories for eligibility. Namely, candidates must have one (or more) of the following advanced academic or specialized qualifications in priority sectors such as information and communications technology, oceans technology, health care, agriculture and aquaculture:

1. Graduates of Memorial University who have completed a Masters or PhD program within the three years prior to applying.
2. Exceptionally qualified individuals who have worked in a specialized, highly skilled, high-demand occupation for at least one year.

The following occupations are considered eligible in-demand occupations for the stream. Note: these occupations will be revised on a regular basis to respond to Newfoundland and Labrador’s changing labour market needs.

Additionally, all candidates for Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador must take an approved English-language test showing abilities at or above the Canadian Language Benchmark of Level 5 (CLB 5). As well, applicants must be at least 21 years of age at the time of application.

Application procedure for Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador

Candidates who meet the minimum eligibility requirements for Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador will be eligible to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). Candidates will be assessed based on the merits of their EOI and certain candidates will be invited by the province to submit an official application for permanent resident status.

Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador will assess EOIs using a points grid, similar to the Comprehensive Ranking System used in Express Entry. The full breakdown of points can be found here.

History of draws for Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador

This table outlines past invitation rounds for Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador: