Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP)

Do you love the pristine, peaceful beauty of the Atlantic region and wish to settle here? The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP) is an excellent opportunity to make that dream come true. Join Phan Immigration as we dive into the details of the conditions, processes, and opportunities that NL PNP offers you. 

Overview of the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program

The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP) is a Canadian immigration pathway specifically designed by the province of Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). Its primary goal is to attract and retain skilled immigrants with the experience and expertise needed to meet the labor market demands and contribute to the province’s economic and social development.
The NL PNP offers various streams for candidates seeking long-term settlement in the province, providing a nomination that enhances their chances of obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) through the Express Entry system or other direct pathways.

Immigration Streams under NL PNP

The NL PNP provides multiple streams, allowing applicants to choose the immigration pathway that best suits their qualifications. Each stream has its own specific criteria and requirements, detailed as follows:

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

Settling in Newfoundland and Labrador through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is an immigration initiative designed to help Newfoundland and Labrador attract and retain skilled foreign workers to live and work in the province. This contributes to economic and social development while addressing local labor shortages. To participate, applicants must have a valid job offer from a designated NL employer and meet other minimum requirements.

Application Process:

Step 1: Job Offer
Applicants must have a full-time job or a job offer from an NL employer.

Step 2: Expression of Interest (EOI)
Applicants submit an Expression of Interest to NL PNP.

Step 3: NL PNP Application
If invited, applicants submit an online NL PNP application to the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism.

Step 4: Invitation to Apply (ITA), Permanent Residency Application, and Work Permit Support Letter (if applicable)
If nominated, applicants receive an NL PNP nomination certificate, an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Permanent Residency, and a work permit support letter (if applicable). They can then apply for PR and a work permit (if needed) with IRCC.

Step 5: Becoming a Permanent Resident
Applicants become permanent residents and begin a stable new life in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Processing Time: Applications are processed in approximately 10 months.

Minimum Requirements

*Be a skilled worker with qualifying work experience, unless you are an international student who graduated from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada.

• For Skilled Workers: Have at least 1,560 hours of work experience in the past 5 years (equivalent to 1 year of full-time work at 30 hours/week). The job must fall under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4.
• For International Students:

• Hold a diploma, degree, or certificate from a minimum 2-year program at a recognized post-secondary institution in one of the four Atlantic provinces.

• Have been a full-time student throughout the program.

• Have lived in one of the Atlantic provinces for at least 16 months in the 2 years prior to graduation.

• Have held a valid visa or permit to work, study, or train while in Canada.

*Receive a valid job offer from a designated NL employer.

*Meet or exceed minimum education requirements:

• For TEER 0 or 1 job offers: A 1-year post-secondary education credential in Canada or an equivalent foreign credential.
• For TEER 2, 3, or 4 job offers: A high school diploma in Canada or an equivalent foreign credential.

*Meet or exceed minimum language proficiency requirements:

• For TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 job offers: CLB/NCLC 5.
• For TEER 4 job offers: CLB/NCLC 4.

*Prove sufficient funds to support yourself and your family upon settling in Canada. (This is waived if you are already living and working in Canada with a valid work permit.)

AIP-Linked NL PNP Program
If you’re also interested in the AIP pathway to Canadian residency, Phan Immigration—a government-licensed immigration consultancy—is ready to assist you. With over 15 years of experience and CICC-certified experts, Phan offers comprehensive immigration solutions, from short-term visas to complex programs like AIP and NL PNP.
We provide personalized pathways tailored to each client, backed by a strong network of Canadian lawyers and businesses. Our commitment is to transparency and accountability in all services. Don’t wait—contact Phan Immigration today to turn your Canadian dream into reality.

Newfoundland and Labrador Express Entry Program

The Newfoundland and Labrador Express Entry Program, also known as the Express Entry Skilled Worker stream, is a popular and widely favored NL PNP option directly linked to Canada’s Express Entry system. It focuses on attracting highly skilled workers to meet the growing labor market needs of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Application Process

Step 1: Acceptance into IRCC’s Express Entry Pool

• Applicants submit a profile to Express Entry and are accepted into the pool of eligible candidates.
• Applicants must provide their Express Entry Profile Number (E followed by 9 digits) and Job Seeker Validation Code (four digits) from IRCC.

Step 2: Job Offer

• The job in the offer must fall under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 and meet NL PNP Express Entry eligibility.
• If the applicant lacks a valid work permit or an inter-provincial permit allowing work with the employer, a Job Vacancy Assessment (JVA) is required. Employers must complete the JVA form and can submit it via email to EmploymentPrograms@gov.nl.ca.

Step 3: Expression of Interest (EOI)
Applicants submit an EOI to NL PNP.

Step 4: NL PNP Application
If invited, applicants submit an online NL PNP application to the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism under the Express Entry Skilled Worker stream.

Step 5: Work Permit Application

• If successfully nominated by the province, applicants apply for a work permit (if needed) with IRCC.
• Once approved, they can work in NL. This step can be skipped if the applicant already has a valid work permit or inter-provincial permit for full-time work.

Step 6: Invitation to Apply (ITA) and Permanent Residency Application
If nominated, applicants receive bonus points in their Express Entry profile, triggering an ITA for PR. They can then apply for PR with IRCC.

Step 7: Becoming a Permanent Resident
Applicants become permanent residents and start a stable new life in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Processing Time: Applications are processed within 25 business days.

Minimum Requirements

• Be accepted into IRCC’s Express Entry pool.

• Have a full-time job or job offer:

• In an occupation under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3.

• With an employer holding a valid Job Vacancy Assessment (JVA) (required only if the applicant lacks a valid work permit or inter-provincial permit for the specified role).

• Ensuring at least 30 hours of work per week.

• Valid for at least 1 year (12 months) with reasonable expectation of renewal at the time of NL PNP application (confirmed by the employer).

• From an eligible NL employer.

• Paid in the form of a salary or hourly wage (not commission-based).

• Meeting provincial employment standards.

• Matching the prevailing wage in the region (or provincial/national wage if regional data is unavailable).

• Possess the qualifications, training, skills, or certifications required for the job, proven by meeting NOC job requirements and supporting documents for all work experience listed in the Express Entry profile.

• If residing in Canada, prove legal immigration status with a permit valid for at least 4 months at the time of applying for NL PNP. Post-graduate work permit holders may be eligible.

• Demonstrate intent and ability to settle permanently in NL with family (if applicable).

• Have sufficient settlement funds and financial resources to support yourself and dependents (if any) in NL:

• All applicants must prove they can cover settlement costs.

• Applicants already in NL must demonstrate long-term financial stability, assessed by factors like family size, expected relocation costs, savings, assets, debts, and anticipated salary.

• If holding ownership in the employing business, the applicant’s share must not exceed 10%. This does not apply to selected entrepreneurs.

• Hold a Canadian post-secondary degree or a valid ECA report for foreign credentials.

• Provide valid language test results (English or French) meeting the program’s minimum requirements, with results remaining valid throughout NL PNP and PR application processing.

• Score at least 67 points on the NL PNP points assessment grid.

• If using a paid third-party representative, ensure they are registered and authorized to represent you.

Skilled Worker Program

The Skilled Worker stream of the Newfoundland and Labrador PNP targets individuals with specialized qualifications, training, and work experience in occupations needed by Newfoundland and Labrador.

Application Process

Step 1: Job Offer

• The job in the offer must fall under TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 and meet NL PNP Skilled Worker eligibility.
• If the applicant lacks a valid work permit or inter-provincial permit allowing work with the employer, a Job Vacancy Assessment (JVA) is required. Employers must complete the JVA form and can submit it via email to EmploymentPrograms@gov.nl.ca.

Step 2: Expression of Interest (EOI)
Applicants submit an EOI to NL PNP.

Step 3: NL PNP Application
If invited, applicants submit an online NL PNP application to the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism.

Step 4: Work Permit Application

• If successfully nominated by the province, applicants apply for a work permit (if needed) with IRCC.
• Once approved, they can work in NL. This step can be skipped if the applicant already has a valid work permit or inter-provincial permit for full-time work.

Step 5: Invitation to Apply (ITA) and Permanent Residency Application
If nominated, applicants apply for PR with IRCC. Processing time depends on the application type.

Step 6: Becoming a Permanent Resident
Applicants become permanent residents and start a stable new life in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Processing Time: Applications are processed within 25 business days.

Minimum Requirements

• Have a full-time job or job offer:

• In an occupation under TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5.

• With an employer holding a valid Job Vacancy Assessment (JVA) (required only if the applicant lacks a valid work permit or inter-provincial permit for the specified role).

• Ensuring at least 30 hours of work per week.

• Valid for at least 1 year (12 months) with reasonable expectation of renewal at the time of NL PNP application (confirmed by the employer).

• From an eligible NL employer.

• Paid in the form of a salary or hourly wage (not commission-based).

• Meeting provincial employment standards.

• Matching the prevailing wage in the region (or provincial/national wage if regional data is unavailable).
• Possess the qualifications, training, skills, or certifications required for the job, proven by meeting NOC job requirements.
• Be aged 21 to 59.
• If residing in Canada, prove legal immigration status with a permit valid for at least 4 months at the time of applying for NL PNP.
• Demonstrate intent and ability to settle permanently in NL with family (if applicable).
• Have sufficient settlement funds and financial resources to support yourself and dependents (if any) in NL:

• All applicants must prove they can cover settlement costs.

• Applicants already in NL must demonstrate long-term financial stability, assessed by factors like family size, expected relocation costs, savings, assets, debts, and anticipated salary.
• If holding ownership in the employing business, the applicant’s share must not exceed 10%. This does not apply to selected entrepreneurs.
• For TEER 4 or 5 job offers, prove CLB 4 or higher in English and French.
• If using a paid third-party representative, ensure they are registered and authorized to represent you.

International Graduate Program

The International Graduate Category of NL PNP is a dedicated immigration pathway for international students who have graduated from recognized post-secondary institutions in Canada, particularly in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). This program offers a chance to stay and settle in NL after completing studies, helping retain talent and contribute to the province’s development.

Application Process

Step 1: Job Offer

• The job in the offer must fall under TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 (TEER 4 must be an in-demand occupation) and meet NL PNP International Graduate eligibility.
• Applicants must hold a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) from IRCC, with at least 4 months of validity at the time of NL PNP application.

Step 2: Field of Study Requirement

• International Graduate applicants should have a full-time job related to their field of study from a post-secondary program completed in Canada.
• Graduates from outside NL must work in NL for at least 1 year before applying for NL PNP and secure a full-time job related to their field of study.
• Graduates from Memorial University or College of the North Atlantic are exempt from the field-of-study requirement, provided the job meets all other program criteria.

Step 3: Expression of Interest (EOI)
Applicants submit an EOI to NL PNP.

Step 4: NL PNP Application
If invited, applicants submit an online NL PNP application to the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism under the International Graduate stream.

Step 5: Permanent Residency Application
If nominated, applicants apply for PR with IRCC. Processing time depends on the application type.

Step 6: Work Permit Application (if needed)
If successfully nominated, applicants may apply for a province-supported work permit to maintain legal status during PR processing.

Step 7: Becoming a Permanent Resident
Applicants become permanent residents and start a stable new life in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Processing Time: Applications are processed within 25 business days.

Minimum Requirements

• Hold an IRCC Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) valid for at least 4 months at the time of NL PNP application.
• Have a full-time job or job offer:
• In an occupation under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3, or a TEER 4 occupation deemed in-demand by the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism (OIM).

• Ensuring at least 30 hours of work per week.

• Valid for at least 1 year (12 months) with reasonable expectation of renewal at the time of NL PNP application (confirmed by the employer).

• From an eligible NL employer.

• Paid in the form of a salary or hourly wage (not commission-based).

• Meeting provincial employment standards.

• Matching the prevailing wage in the region (or provincial/national wage if regional data is unavailable).
• Possess the qualifications, training, skills, or certifications required for the job, proven by meeting NOC job requirements.
• Be aged 21 to 59.
• If residing in Canada, prove legal immigration status with a permit valid for at least 4 months at the time of applying for NL PNP.
• Demonstrate intent and ability to settle permanently in NL with family (if applicable).
• Have sufficient settlement funds and financial resources to support yourself and dependents (if any) in NL:
  • All applicants must prove they can cover settlement costs.
  • Applicants already in NL must demonstrate long-term financial stability, assessed by factors like family size, expected relocation costs, savings, assets, debts, and anticipated salary.
• If holding ownership in the employing business, the applicant’s share must not exceed 10%. This does not apply to selected entrepreneurs.
• Work in a field related to studies: International Graduate applicants should have a full-time job tied to their post-secondary field of study in Canada.
• Graduates from Memorial University or College of the North Atlantic may apply for jobs unrelated to their field, provided the job:
  • Requires a post-secondary degree or certificate under NOC standards.
  • Falls under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3, or an in-demand TEER 4 occupation.
  • Offers career advancement potential.
  • Aligns with a field where the applicant has a combination of skills, experience, and training from the past 5 years per NOC description.
  • Is full-time for at least 1 year with renewal potential confirmed by the employer.
• For graduates from a recognized public post-secondary institution outside NL, the job or offer must directly relate to their field of study. Out-of-province graduates must work in NL for at least 1 year before applying.
• For TEER 4 (in-demand) job offers, submit valid language test results with the NL PNP application, remaining valid throughout NL PNP and PR processing.
• If using a paid third-party representative, ensure they are registered and authorized to represent you.

International Graduate Entrepreneur Program

The International Graduate Entrepreneur stream offers a unique pathway for international students who have graduated from post-secondary institutions in Newfoundland and Labrador and possess an entrepreneurial spirit to realize their dreams. This program facilitates the establishment, operation, and management of a business in the province while providing a route to Canadian Permanent Residency.

Processing Time: Depends on document verification duration.

Minimum Requirements

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Provide a business continuity plan with supporting documents verified by a recognized third-party professional service (applicants are fully responsible for associated fees).
• Have completed a bachelor’s degree or diploma after at least 2 years of full-time, in-person study at Memorial University or College of the North Atlantic, with the credential completed within 2 years of submitting the EOI.
• Hold a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit.
• Demonstrate intent to live permanently in NL while owning and actively managing a local business with potential for significant economic benefits to the province.
• Have at least 1 year of continuous experience actively managing and owning the current business (with at least 33.3% ownership).
• Prove the ability to create at least 1 full-time equivalent job for local residents (permanent residents or Canadian citizens).
• Demonstrate that the business is a for-profit entity aimed at earning profits through the sale of goods and/or services.
• Achieve a minimum CLB 7 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English or French.
• Complete an online Expression of Interest.
• Receive an Invitation to Apply from the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism.

Note: Applicants aiming to support regional economic development or focus on high-demand sectors (e.g., agriculture, technology, aquaculture, natural resources) will be prioritized. 

Entrepreneur and Investor Program

The Entrepreneur and Investor Categories of the Newfoundland and Labrador PNP are ideal for accomplished entrepreneurs and experienced investors looking to start, invest in, and grow a business in NL. This program not only facilitates business expansion but also offers a long-term pathway to Canadian residency for the applicant and their family.

Processing Time: Depends on document verification duration.

Minimum Requirements

• Be aged 21 to 59.
• Provide a business continuity plan with supporting documents verified by a recognized third-party professional service (applicants are fully responsible for associated fees).
• Hold at least a Canadian high school diploma or an equivalent foreign credential verified by an ECA within the past 5 years before EOI submission.
• Demonstrate intent to live permanently in NL while owning and actively managing a local business with potential for significant economic benefits to the province.
• Have a minimum net worth of CAD 600,000 (personal and business assets), unencumbered and easily transferable to Canada.
• Be able to invest at least CAD 200,000 of personal funds to establish a business in NL with a minimum 33.3% ownership, or CAD 1 million in equity investment.
• Prove the ability to create at least 1 full-time equivalent job for local residents (permanent residents or Canadian citizens).
• Demonstrate that the business is a for-profit entity aimed at earning profits through the sale of goods and/or services.
• Have at least 2 years of continuous experience actively managing and owning a business (with at least 25% ownership) in the past 5 years, or 5+ years of senior business management experience in the past 15 years.
• Achieve a minimum CLB 5 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing in English or French.
• Complete an online Expression of Interest.
• Receive an Invitation to Apply from the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism.

Note: Applicants aiming to support regional economic development or focus on high-demand sectors (e.g., agriculture, technology, aquaculture, natural resources) will be prioritized. 

All potential international entrepreneur applicants applying from outside the province must conduct an initial exploratory visit to NL before submitting an official application to the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism.

Frequently Asked Questions about NL PNP

Is a job offer required to participate in NL PNP?

Not all streams of the Newfoundland and Labrador PNP require a job offer. However, having a job offer significantly increases your chances of approval, especially in streams like Skilled Worker. Some streams, such as International Graduate, do not mandate a job offer if the applicant graduated from a recognized Canadian educational institution.

After being nominated, am I required to stay in Newfoundland and Labrador?

There is no specific legal obligation to remain in Newfoundland and Labrador after receiving an NL PNP nomination. However, when applying, you typically commit to living and working in the province. Moving to another province or territory after obtaining PR may be seen as a breach of that commitment. It’s advisable to stay in NL for at least 1-2 years before considering relocation if necessary.

The Newfoundland and Labrador PNP is more than just an immigration program—it’s an opportunity for you and your family to build a bright future in Canada. With diverse streams ranging from skilled workers and international graduates to entrepreneurs, NL PNP offers a wide-open path to Permanent Residency and a high-quality life in the beautiful, welcoming province of NL. Contact Phan Immigration today for detailed guidance on the NL PNP!