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Newfoundland and Labrador are located on the eastern coast of Atlantic Canada. The province may not be everyone’s top destination, but it is certainly a gem for those who appreciate the simpler, more pastoral life. However, do not write Newfoundland and Labrador off as merely Greenlands and seaside villages. In recent years, it has experienced a boom in business, arts, and culture, attracting those who want to move away from the big city life but still enjoy the trendy subculture offered by cities.
The beautiful province of about 528,000 residents is divided into different sections; Labrador in the north and Newfoundland, an exquisite island 17km off the coast of Labrador. However, most of the province’s population lives in the capital city, St. John’s, where they enjoy excellent schools, top-notch healthcare facilities, fantastic restaurants, exceptional nightlife, and an exciting arts scene.
The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nomination Program (Newfoundland and Labrador PNP, or NLPNP) allows the province to nominate people with the necessary skills and experience to address the labour and population shortage in the province. Applying to the program is quite simple. First, you must determine which of the category is best suited to you. Following this, you must complete and submit all the necessary paperwork to the relevant authorities. If your application is successful, you will be invited to apply for Permanent residence, guaranteeing your emigration to the province.
Most people that want to move to Newfoundland and Labrador are particularly interested in immigrating to St. John’s. However, even if St John’s is not your ideal destination, you can easily migrate to any other city in the province through a Provincial Nominee Program.
Many small towns and villages in Newfoundland and Labrador are exceptional settling places. These communities are safe, friendly, and very welcoming to new immigrants. For example, several small communities in Newfoundland and Labrador were among the first in the entire country to agree to accept Syrian refugees.
Overall, to be eligible for the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NL PNP), you must have the following:
- A job offer from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer in a skilled occupation or experience in a targeted sector identified by the province.
- Find out which jobs are in high demand in Newfoundland and Labrador here.
- The qualifications, training, or licensing required for the job.
- Learn more about how to validate your qualifications in Canada here.
- A valid work permit if you currently work in Canada.
- Here’s a handy guide to getting a work permit in Canada.
- Sufficient language skills in English or French to perform the job duties.
- Here’s a full Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) breakdown.
- The necessary funds to settle in Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Learn more about how settlement funds work and how much money you need to move to Canada here.
In addition to these requirements, applicants will be assessed on factors such as age, education, work experience, adaptability, and ties to Newfoundland and Labrador.
You can take several routes to get a Provincial Nomination. Discover which of these programs is the right one for you below.
If You Have a Job Offer in Newfoundland and Labrador:
Skilled Worker Category
This category is for you if you have the specialized skills employers need in Newfoundland and Labrador. Employers can nominate skilled workers under this category if that person can critically impact the operations of the employer’s business.
If you would like to apply to immigrate to Canada. Through this stream, you must satisfy the following personal eligibility requirements.
| To be Eligible For This Category, You Must: |
|---|
| Have a permanent job offer from an employer in Newfoundland and Labrador; or |
| Have a job offer that meets the wage and employment standards of the province; |
| Have all the required qualifications, documentation, and training needed to perform the duties of your job; |
|
Have a Work Permit issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada, or you must meet the requirements to apply for one. The permit must still be valid for at least six months after applying.
|
| Have the intention to live and work in Newfoundland and Labrador; |
| Have enough money to settle you and your dependents in the province; |
| Be employed by someone who can prove that your specific skill set is needed; and |
| Provide the relevant language test results showing you have the required language ability to fulfil your job’s duties. |
Please note that your occupation must not feature on the ineligible occupations list for you to qualify to apply under this stream.
Priority Skills NL Category
The Priority Skills Newfoundland & Labrador (Priority Skills NL) PNP Stream is a new immigration stream designed to help skilled international workers who can help boost the economy and fill current high-demand jobs in four main industries:
- Technology;
- Healthcare;
- Aquaculture; and
- Agriculture.
To qualify for this immigration stream, you must submit an expression of interest and complete a questionnaire about your language ability, age, education, work experience, and whether or not you have any family in the province. Your profile will then be scored, and you will be required to receive at least 60 points to be considered. The highest-scoring applicants with the most interest from Canadian employers will receive an invitation to apply for permanent residency.
To be Eligible For This Category, You Must Meet the Following Requirements:
| Requirements for the Priority Skills Newfoundland and Labrador Stream | |
|---|---|
| Education | Ph.D. or Master’s degrees from Memorial University within the past three years in the following specialties: Technology, Health Care, Aquaculture, and Agriculture |
| Work Experience | must have worked in a specialized, highly-skilled, in-demand occupation for at least one full year in the last ten years |
| Language | International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) language test within the last twelve months and scored equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 or higher |
| Age | Be at least 21 years of age. |
Express Entry Skilled Worker Category
The Express Entry, Skilled Worker Category is the fastest path to Canadian permanent residence for those intending to live and work in Newfoundland and Labrador. Express Entry applications can be in as little as six months. Find out if you qualify for this speedy category.
| To be Eligible For This Category, You Must: |
|---|
| Be accepted into the Express Entry pool of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC); |
| Score at least 67 points out of a possible 100 on the Provincial Nomination Program Assessment Grid. |
| An offer of employment from an employer in Newfoundland and Labrador that meets the governmental standards for employment and wages; |
| Have a valid Work Permit, or you must meet the requirements to apply for one; |
| Have a Canadian tertiary degree, diploma, or an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) verifying that your foreign credentials are equal to the education standards of Canada; |
| Have the intention to live and work in Newfoundland and Labrador; |
| Have enough money to settle you and your dependents in the province; and |
| Provide the relevant language test results showing you have the required language ability to fulfil your job’s duties. |
Find out how to start your Express Entry journey here.
If You’ve Studied in Canada:
International Graduate Category
International students who have graduated from a recognized tertiary institution in Canada can be nominated for permanent residency through this category.
| To be Eligible For This Category, You Must: |
|---|
| Have graduated from a recognized, publicly funded, Canadian tertiary institution, and you must have completed a minimum of half of your studies in Canada; |
| While studying full-time, have completed a minimum of a two-year diploma or degree. If you have completed a post-graduate degree of at least one year in length, you might still satisfy this requirement; |
| Have an offer of employment for a full-time, permanent position; |
| To be legally allowed to work in Canada, meaning you must have a Post-Graduate Work Permit issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada; |
| Have all the required qualifications, documentation, and training needed to perform the duties of your job; |
| Have the intention to live and work in Newfoundland and Labrador; |
| Have an offer of employment that meets the province’s salary and employment standards; |
| Have an offer of employment for a job that has the potential for advancement; |
| Have enough money to settle you and your dependents in the province; |
| Provide the relevant language test results showing you have the required language ability to fulfil your job’s duties. |
Please note:
Suppose you graduated from an institution outside of Newfoundland and Labrador. In that case, you might have to acquire one year’s work experience in your field of study before submitting your provincial nomination program application.
International Graduate Entrepreneur Category
International students who have graduated from Memorial University or College of the North Atlantic can be nominated for permanent residency through this category.
| To be Eligible For This Category, You Must: |
|---|
| Have already started or bought a business in Newfoundland & Labrador and been involved in the day-to-day operations for a minimum of one continuous year; |
| Be at least 21 years old; |
| Submit a business continuity plan that a professional third party has verified; |
| Have completed a degree or diploma worth at least two academic years, full-time; |
| Be a holder of a valid post-graduate work permit; |
| Have the intention to live and work in Newfoundland and Labrador while continuing to manage your business; |
| Have a minimum of 33.3% ownership in your business; |
| Create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident; |
| Demonstrate that the business intends to be for-profit; |
| Score a minimum of 7 on the Canadian Language Benchmark test. |
Applicants will be given priority to high-demand sectors such as Agriculture, Technology, and Natural Resources.
Several factors can make you ineligible for the International Graduate Entrepreneur category. Please take note of these disqualifications to ensure your application stands the best chance at success.
| You are Ineligible For This Category If You: |
|---|
| Are you currently living illegally in your country of residence; |
| Have you had a removal order issued against you by the IRCC or Canada Border Services Agency; |
| Are prohibited from entering Canada; |
| Intend to be a passive investor; or |
| You are not eligible to apply because your status is void. |
If you haven’t started your educational journey in Canada, you’ll want to find the right Canadian university and get a Canadian study permit. Once you complete that journey, you can be eligible for these programs.
If You Want to Start a Business in Canada:
International Entrepreneur Category
This program is for experienced business owners or managers looking to start or buy an existing business and permanently reside in Newfoundland & Labrador.
| To be Eligible For This Category, You Must: |
|---|
| Be 21 to 59 years of age; |
| Submit a complete business plan for your new venture, verified by a third-party professional; |
| Have a minimum of a Canadian high school diploma, verified by an Educational Credential Assessment; |
| Intend to settle, reside and conduct your business in Newfoundland and Labrador; |
| Have a net worth of $600,000; |
| Invest a minimum of $200,000 in your business or an existing business for ownership of at least 33.3%; |
| Create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident; |
| Have at least two years of experience in managing your own business or five years in a senior management role; |
| Have a minimum score of 5 in all categories for the Canadian Language Benchmark test; and |
| Complete an Expression of Interest and receive an invitation to apply. |
If you want to find out how to start your business in Newfoundland and Labrador, you should speak to an immigration professional like a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). An RCIC, or Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, is a professional authorized by the Government of Canada to provide immigration advice, representation, and assistance to individuals who want to immigrate to Canada. The role of an RCIC is to help clients navigate the complex immigration process and ensure that their applications are complete, accurate, and submitted on time.
RCICs are regulated by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CCIC). This non-profit organization sets standards for the profession and ensures that all RCICs meet strict ethical and professional requirements. To become an RCIC, one must pass a rigorous exam and meet specific education and work experience requirements. As a result, an RCIC can evaluate you to help you fully understand your eligibility for this program and help you through every step of your application process to maximize your chances of building a bright future in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Why Move to Newfoundland and Labrador?
Newfoundland and Labrador is a province in Canada located on the east coast. It is known for its rugged coastline, stunning landscapes, and friendly people. There are many reasons why you should consider moving to Newfoundland and Labrador.
Low Cost of Living
The cost of living in Newfoundland and Labrador is relatively low compared to other provinces in Canada. Housing is affordable, and the price of food and other necessities is also reasonable. This means your money will go further, and you can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. Learn more about Newfoundland and Labrador’s cost of living here.
Natural Beauty
The natural beauty of Newfoundland and Labrador is undeniable. From hiking trails to whale watching, there are plenty of outdoor activities. The province is also home to Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which is a must-visit for anyone who loves nature.
Friendly People
The people of Newfoundland and Labrador are known for their warmth and hospitality. They are welcoming to newcomers, and the sense of community is strong. This makes it easy to make friends and build a support network. Learn more about the people of Newfoundland and Labrador here.
Family-friendly
Newfoundland and Labrador are great places to raise a family. The education system is excellent, and many family-friendly activities exist. Crime rates are low, and the province is generally considered a safe place to live.
Learn more about Newfoundland and Labrador here:
FAQs
Are There Any Other Immigration Programs Exclusive to Newfoundland and Labrador?
While not exclusive to Newfoundland and Labrador, the Atlantic Immigration Program is a partnership between the federal government of Canada and the four Atlantic provinces (Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick) to attract and retain skilled immigrants to the region.
The program offers various immigration streams for eligible candidates, including the Atlantic High-Skilled Program, the Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program, the Atlantic International Graduate Program, and the Atlantic Pilot Program. Find out how you can apply to the AIP here.
What is Application Process for the NLPNP?
The process for applying to the NL PNP is as follows:
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the NL PNP eligibility requirements.
Step 2: Secure a Job Offer
You must have a valid job offer from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer to apply. The job offer must be for a full-time, permanent position in a skilled occupation or a targeted sector identified by the province.
Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
If you meet the eligibility requirements and have a valid job offer, you can submit an EOI to the NL PNP. Your EOI will be assessed based on your education, work experience, language skills, and ties to Newfoundland and Labrador.
Step 4: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
You will receive an ITA to apply for the NL PNP if selected from the EOI pool. You will have 60 days to submit a complete application.
Step 5: Submit a Complete Application
Include all required documents, such as proof of education, work experience, language skills, and financial resources. You must also undergo a medical exam and obtain a police certificate.
Step 6: Wait for a Decision
The processing time for NL PNP applications is typically 3-4 months. Finally, if your application is approved, you will receive a nomination certificate from the province.
Step 7: Apply for Permanent Residence
You can apply through the federal government with a nomination certificate from Newfoundland and Labrador.
Find Your Home in Canada's Islands
Now that you know all the different programs that make up the NLPNP, it's time to find the right one and start your application process. One of the best ways to ensure your best possible chance of success in the NLPNP is to utilize the services of a certified immigration professional like an RCIC.
The services provided by an RCIC can include the following:
- Assessing a client's eligibility for immigration programs.
- Preparing and submitting immigration applications.
- Representing clients in immigration hearings and appeals.
- Providing advice and guidance on immigration-related matters.
Hiring an RCIC can benefit individuals unfamiliar with the Canadian immigration system or complex immigration cases. In addition, an RCIC can provide valuable expertise and support throughout the immigration process, helping to ensure a successful outcome. However, it is essential to note that only authorized RCICs are legally permitted to provide immigration advice and services in Canada.
