Nova Scotia has introduced a new three-level priority system for the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) to better target the province’s most urgent labour market needs. The changes were announced on April 27, 2026, and will guide how Expressions of Interest (EOI) are selected from the general pool.
Under the updated framework, healthcare and skilled trades occupations now sit at the very top of the priority list. These roles, classified at TEER 0 to 4 under Canada’s National Occupational Classification system, will receive the fastest processing and highest consideration. Importantly, this top tier is open to both international applicants and temporary residents already living and working in Nova Scotia.
The second priority level covers additional occupations in four broad NOC major groups, but only for candidates who are already temporary residents in the province. These include:
- Natural and applied sciences and related occupations
- Education, law and social, community and government services
- Natural resources, agriculture and related production occupations
- Manufacturing and utilities
All of these must still be at TEER 0 to 4.
The third and lowest priority level applies to all remaining occupations. In this category, NSNP will only consider temporary residents already in Nova Scotia working at TEER 0, 1, or 2. Workers in TEER 5 occupations are not being considered at this time.
The new priorities reflect Nova Scotia’s commitment to filling critical gaps while managing its limited nomination allocation. International applicants outside of healthcare and skilled trades now face significantly reduced chances through the general EOI pool unless they meet one of the higher-priority categories.
Two streams remain unaffected by these general priorities. The Labour Market Priorities Physicians Stream continues to target specialists and family physicians with a valid job offer from the Nova Scotia Health Authority or IWK Health Centre. Candidates need an active Express Entry profile to apply.
Separately, the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) in Pictou County operates on its own schedule. For 2026, Pictou County is prioritizing 25 occupations across six sectors, including health, trades, manufacturing, and education. Applicants still require a job offer from a designated local employer.
The NSNP changes come after the program’s earlier move to a consolidated EOI-based system earlier in 2026. Officials have stated that priorities may be adjusted throughout the year as labour market conditions and nomination spaces evolve.
Candidates interested in the program are encouraged to review their NOC codes and current status in Nova Scotia carefully. Those already working in healthcare or skilled trades should ensure their profiles are up to date and ready for selection. With the new system now in effect, the province aims to deliver nominations more efficiently to workers who can contribute immediately to key sectors.
This targeted approach is expected to help Nova Scotia address ongoing shortages in hospitals, construction sites, and essential services while maintaining a balanced immigration program. More details on exact selection dates and nomination numbers will be released as the year progresses.
