Newfoundland and Labrador issues invitations to PNP and AIP candidates
In a move to bolster its workforce and support population growth, Newfoundland and Labrador has issued a fresh round of invitations to potential immigrants through its Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). The June 24, 2025, draw marked the province’s fourth invitation round since adopting an Expression of Interest (EOI) system earlier this year.
Latest Draw Details
A total of 320 invitations were issued in this round, with 257 going to NLPNP candidates and 63 to AIP candidates. This brings the total number of invitations issued in 2025 to 1,309, comprising 1,095 through the NLPNP and 214 through the AIP.
Recent Selection Rounds in 2025
- May 29: 405 candidates invited (351 via NLPNP, 54 via AIP)
- May 8: 328 candidates invited
- April 3: 256 candidates invited
Transition to Expression of Interest (EOI) Process
Since February 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador has been using an Enhanced EOI system through its Immigration Accelerator platform. Here’s how it works:
- All candidates for NLPNP and AIP must submit an EOI online.
- Overseas candidates need an invitation code from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer to submit their EOI.
- Temporary residents in Canada can apply to NLPNP without an employer invite code.
- EOIs remain valid for 12 months and can be selected at any time.
- Those who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) have 60 days to submit a full application.
Immigration Pathways
The NLPNP targets skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs. The AIP, a federal-provincial initiative, helps address labor shortages without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), simplifying the process for employers.
Provincial Immigration Targets and Federal Allocations
Newfoundland and Labrador initially faced a reduction in federal allocations, with the NLPNP’s original quota set at 1,050 nominations (down from 2,100 in 2024). However, after negotiations in February 2025, the province secured an additional 1,000 spaces, raising its total to 2,050. The AIP allocation remains at 475 spaces for the year.
As of the June draw, the province has 1,216 NLPNP spaces and 261 AIP spaces remaining for 2025.
Broader Context and Processing Times
The NLPNP plays a crucial role in addressing skills shortages and supporting economic growth. The typical processing time for applications is 12–18 months.
In summary, Newfoundland and Labrador continues to actively issue invitations to prospective immigrants through a streamlined EOI system. With adjusted quotas and a focus on matching employer demand with global talent, the province is making strides in its immigration strategy for 2025.
Implications of the June Draw and Future Outlook
The June 24 draw saw one of the lowest numbers of invitations issued since Newfoundland and Labrador adopted the Expression of Interest (EOI) system in April 2025. This shift reflects the province’s strategic approach to align immigration intake with specific labor market demands and long-term population growth goals.
Streamlined Immigration Process
The Enhanced EOI system, introduced through the Immigration Accelerator platform, has streamlined the provincial immigration process. Key features of the system include:
- Online submission of EOIs for both NLPNP and AIP candidates.
- Requirement of an employer invitation code for overseas candidates.
- Temporary residents in Canada can apply without an employer code.
- EOIs remain valid for 12 months, allowing flexibility in candidate selection.
- A 60-day window for submitting a full application after receiving an ITA.
Focus on Labor Market Needs
The NLPNP and AIP are designed to address specific labor shortages and support economic development. The NLPNP targets:
- Skilled workers, both with and without an Express Entry profile.
- International graduates, including those holding Post-Graduation Work Permits.
- Entrepreneurs and international graduate entrepreneurs.
The AIP, as a federal-provincial initiative, simplifies the process for employers by eliminating the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), making it easier for foreign workers to transition to permanent residency.
Updated Provincial Quotas
Federal allocations for 2025 initially reduced the NLPNP quota to 1,050 nominations, down from 2,100 in 2024. However, successful negotiations in February 2025 secured an additional 1,000 spaces, raising the total to 2,050. The AIP allocation remains steady at 475 spaces for the year.
As of the June draw, Newfoundland and Labrador has 1,216 NLPNP nomination spaces and 261 AIP spaces remaining for 2025. These adjustments reflect the province’s commitment to balancing immigration numbers with economic needs and population goals.
Processing Times and Application Efficiency
The NLPNP continues to be a vital pathway for skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates, playing a key role in addressing skills shortages and fostering economic growth. The typical processing time for applications remains between 12 to 18 months, ensuring a thorough yet efficient review process.
Future of Provincial Immigration Strategy
Newfoundland and Labrador’s immigration strategy for 2025 is centered on creating a more accessible and transparent system. By aligning invitations with labor market demands and enhancing the EOI process, the province aims to attract and retain global talent. The increased nomination spaces and streamlined processes underscore the government’s commitment to supporting local businesses and community development through targeted immigration efforts.
Conclusion
Newfoundland and Labrador continues to make significant strides in its immigration strategy through the Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). The June 24, 2025, draw, issuing 320 invitations, underscores the province’s commitment to addressing labor market needs and supporting population growth. By transitioning to an Enhanced Expression of Interest (EOI) system, Newfoundland and Labrador has streamlined its immigration process, offering a more efficient and transparent pathway for candidates. With updated quotas and a focus on employer demand, the province is strategically aligning its immigration efforts with economic goals, ensuring a balanced approach to attracting and retaining global talent.
FAQ
What is the Expression of Interest (EOI) system?
The EOI system is an online process where candidates submit their profiles to express interest in immigrating to Newfoundland and Labrador. It allows the province to select candidates who best meet labor market needs.
How many invitations were issued in the June 24, 2025, draw?
A total of 320 invitations were issued: 257 through the NLPNP and 63 through the AIP.
What is the difference between the NLPNP and the AIP?
The NLPNP targets skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs, while the AIP is a federal-provincial initiative designed to address labor shortages without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
How long is an EOI profile valid?
An EOI profile remains valid for 12 months from the date of submission.
How long do candidates have to submit a full application after receiving an ITA?
Candidates have 60 days to submit a complete application after receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Can temporary residents in Canada apply without an employer invitation code?
Yes, temporary residents in Canada can apply to the NLPNP without an employer invitation code, while overseas candidates require an invitation code from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer.
What is the current remaining quota for NLPNP and AIP in 2025?
As of the June draw, Newfoundland and Labrador has 1,216 NLPNP spaces and 261 AIP spaces remaining for 2025.
How long does it typically take to process NLPNP applications?
The typical processing time for NLPNP applications is between 12 to 18 months.
