New Brunswick is celebrated for its safe communities, affordable living, and high demand for skilled workers. It’s an ideal destination for families and professionals seeking a balanced, peaceful lifestyle with real opportunities. If you’re considering immigration to New Brunswick, the province offers multiple pathways to permanent residency and employment.
The main routes include: The New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP), the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), federal options like Express Entry, and opportunities for international students and skilled workers. This guide will break down the NBPNP and other New Brunswick immigration streams in clear, simple terms, no complicated jargon, just practical information.
This content has been written by Sugimoto Visa experts and is based on the latest updates in 2025. Stay with us until the end of the article to learn about the pathways to immigrate to New Brunswick, along with the requirements and costs you may encounter along the way.
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📢 Latest Updates and News: 2025
As of February 5, 2025, the provincial immigration pathways will begin reopening in a controlled manner.
For details on the reopening of each program and any changes to the streams or the 2025 plan, please visit the official website of the Government of New Brunswicck
Quick Facts About New Brunswick
- Country/Province: New Brunswick, Canada
- Capital: Fredericton
- Population: ~830,000
- Weather: Cold, snowy winters; warm summers (around 25°C)
- Languages: English and French (both official)
- Top Cities for Newcomers: Fredericton, Moncton, Saint John
- Crime Rate: Low compared to major Canadian cities
- Popular Immigration Pathways:
- NBPNP (New Brunswick PR)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP New Brunswick)
- Express Entry (Work Immigration to New Brunswick)
- Study permit (Study in New Brunswick, Canada)
- Work permits (Skilled Worker New Brunswick)
New Brunswick Immigration Routes
1. New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
This program allows the province to recruit skilled workers and entrepreneurs to support its economy.
Streams:
- Skilled Worker Stream: For individuals with a job offer in NB.
- Express Entry Stream: Linked with Canada’s federal Express Entry system.
- Business Immigration Stream: For entrepreneurs ready to start or purchase a business in NB.
Key Requirements:
- Job offer from a New Brunswick employer (Skilled Worker)
- Express Entry profile with work experience and language proficiency (Express Entry Stream)
- Investment funds, business plan, and management experience (Business Stream)
Documents Needed:
- Passport and ID
- Language test (IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF for French)
- Proof of work experience and education
- Job offer or business plan (depending on stream)
2. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
A federal program for Atlantic provinces, including New Brunswick.
Who it’s for:
- Workers with a New Brunswick job offer
- International graduates from NB colleges or universities
3. Express Entry (Federal Program)
A points-based system managed by the Canadian government.
How it works:
- Create an Express Entry online profile
- Earn points for age, education, work experience, and language skills
- New Brunswick can issue direct invitations to candidates matching local labor needs
4. Study Pathway
Studying in New Brunswick can lead to permanent residency in Canada.
Benefits:
- Work while studying
- Obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- Later apply for NBPNP or AIP
5. Work Permits
New Brunswick seeks temporary foreign workers in trades, manufacturing, IT, and healthcare.
Requirements:
- Job offer from a sponsoring employer
- Approved work permit application by IRCC
- Potential pathway to PR via NBPNP or AIP
What is the NBPNP?
The New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) lets the province select newcomers who can contribute to its economy and society. It’s designed for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates aiming to settle in NB. Successful applicants receive a provincial nomination, which can lead to permanent residency in Canada.
NBPNP Streams
| Stream | Who Can Apply | Main Criteria | Key Documents |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker | Foreign workers with a valid NB job offer | Full-time job, work experience, language test, settlement funds | Passport, language results, job offer, proof of experience, and education |
| Express Entry | Candidates with an active Express Entry profile | Meet federal criteria, in-demand skills, interest in NB | Express Entry profile number, language test, ECA, work history |
| Business Immigration | Entrepreneurs investing in NB | Minimum investment, business plan, management experience, net worth | Passport, business plan, proof of funds, ownership/management experience |
| Post-Graduate Entrepreneur | NB international graduates | 2+ years NB study, business started/managed in NB, language ability | Diploma/degree, business proof, language test |
Who Can Apply
General eligibility for NBPNP includes:
- Age 22–55
- High school diploma (higher education may be needed for certain streams)
- Language proficiency in English or French (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF)
- Relevant work experience
- Proof of sufficient settlement funds
- Intention to live and work in New Brunswick long-term
Documents Required:
- Passport and ID
- Language test results
- Education proof (degree, diploma, or ECA report)
- Work experience evidence (references, contracts, pay slips)
- Job offer (Skilled Worker/AIP) or business plan (Business stream)
- Settlement funds evidence
Processing Time & Fees
| Stream | Processing Time | Nominee Program Fee (CAD) | Federal PR Fee (per adult) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker | 6–9 months | $250 | $1,365 |
| Express Entry | 6–12 months | $250 | $1,365 |
| Business Immigration | 9–12 months | $250 | $1,365 |
| Post-Graduate Entrepreneur | 9–12 months | $250 | $1,365 |
Top Cities for Newcomers
- Fredericton (Capital): Government jobs, universities, family-friendly
- Moncton: Thriving economy, multicultural, many employment opportunities
- Saint John: Port city with IT, healthcare, and energy industries
- Dieppe: French-speaking, near Moncton, ideal for families
- Bathurst & Miramichi: Smaller cities, affordable housing, peaceful lifestyle
💡 Each city has a unique vibe. Consider jobs, family needs, and language preference when choosing where to settle.
Final Thoughts
Immigrating to New Brunswick may feel overwhelming, but it’s an exciting opportunity for growth, stability, and a brighter future. Whether for work, study, or business, NB welcomes newcomers with open doors and supportive communities.
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FAQs
Yes. It offers jobs, affordable housing, and safe communities.
No. English is widely spoken, though French skills can open more opportunities.
On average, 6–12 months before becoming eligible for permanent residency.
Yes. Graduates can get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and then apply for NBPNP or AIP.
Healthcare, IT, trades, transportation, and education.
