The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) 2026

Learn more about the immigration streams available through the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). Whether you’re an international graduate, temporary foreign worker, skilled professional, or entrepreneur, Nova Scotia offers several pathways to Canadian permanent residence.

Nova Scotia PNP Overview

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is Nova Scotia’s provincial immigration program. It allows the province to nominate foreign nationals for permanent residence if their skills and experience match local labour market needs.

Launched in 2003, the NSNP supports economic growth by helping employers address labour shortages and by attracting newcomers who are likely to settle successfully in Nova Scotia.

Into 2026, demand for nomination continues to exceed available spaces. The province has introduced streamlining measures and prioritization in certain sectors to manage high application volumes and improve processing efficiency.

Four Consolidated NSNP Streams (Effective February 18, 2026)

As of February 18, 2026, Nova Scotia has consolidated its immigration streams into a simpler structure with four main categories. Previously, the NSNP operated ten separate streams. These have now been reorganized to create clearer pathways for applicants and employers.

The Four Current NSNP Streams

• Nova Scotia Graduate
• Skilled Worker
• Entrepreneur
• Nova Scotia: Express Entry

While the structure has changed, eligibility criteria remain the same. The new streams include sub-criteria that mirror the requirements of the former streams.

Important notes for current applicants:

• The changes apply only to new Expressions of Interest (EOIs) submitted after February 18, 2026.
• Existing EOIs in the system remain active and are not affected.
• The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is not impacted.
• No action is required for candidates who already have an active EOI.

Who is eligible for PNP in Nova Scotia?

Eligibility for the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) depends on which of the four streams you apply under. Each stream has its own criteria, but in general, you must show that your skills, experience, or business plans meet Nova Scotia’s labour market needs.

What is the PNP quota for 2026 in Nova Scotia?

While Nova Scotia has not yet officially published its exact NSNP allocation for 2026, projections based on the federal allocation plan suggest the province could receive around 5,300 PNP nomination spots in 2026.

This projection is based on the estimated 3,709 allocated spots at the end of 2025 and Canada’s 2026 Immigration Levels Plan, which sets a national target of 91,500 permanent resident admissions through all Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in 2026.

Nova Scotia PNP: Old Closed Streams