Newfoundland and Labrador Issues More Invitations for Provincial Immigration Pathways

In a significant move to address labour shortages and stimulate economic growth, Newfoundland and Labrador has issued a fresh round of invitations to potential immigrants through its provincial nomination programs. This latest draw, held on July 10, 2025, marks another step in the province’s efforts to attract skilled workers and strengthen its workforce.

Recent Immigration Draws

The July 10 draw saw the province issue a total of 359 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) under two key programs: the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). Specifically, 300 ITAs were issued through the NLPNP, while 59 were extended via the AIP. This marks the fifth such draw since the province adopted an Expression of Interest (EOI) system earlier this year, streamlining the selection process to better align with the province’s economic needs.

Trends and Cumulative Data for 2025

So far in 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador has issued a total of 1,309 ITAs, with 1,095 coming through the NLPNP and 214 through the AIP. The frequency and size of these draws highlight the province’s proactive approach to addressing labour market gaps, particularly in critical sectors such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. Previous draws in 2025 include:

• April 3: 256 combined invitations
• May 8: 328 combined invitations
• May 29: 405 combined invitations (351 NLPNP, 54 AIP)
• June 24: 320 combined invitations (257 NLPNP, 63 AIP)
• July 10: 359 combined invitations (300 NLPNP, 59 AIP)

Expression of Interest (EOI) System

Introduced in February 2025, the EOI system has played a pivotal role in transforming the province’s immigration process. Under this system, candidates submit profiles detailing their education, skills, and work experience. These profiles are then ranked, with the highest-scoring candidates receiving ITAs. This approach ensures that invited applicants are well-suited to meet the specific needs of Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy.

Provincial Immigration Allocations

In 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador initially saw its federal allocation for Provincial Nominee Program spaces reduced to 1,050, down from 2,100 in 2024. However, after successful negotiations with the federal government, the province secured an additional 1,000 spaces, bringing the total allocation for 2025 to 2,050. As of July, 1,216 PNP nomination spaces and 261 AIP spaces remain available for the remainder of the year.

Program Details

The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) are two key pathways for immigration to the province. Both programs are designed to address specific labour market needs and contribute to economic growth.

Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)

The NLPNP allows the province to nominate individuals for permanent residence who can contribute to the local economy and communities. The program offers several streams:

• Express Entry Skilled Worker: For skilled workers with a profile in the federal Express Entry system.
• Skilled Worker: For workers with a job offer in the province.
• International Graduate: For international graduates who have completed their studies at a recognized Canadian institution.
• International Graduate Entrepreneur: For international graduates who wish to start or manage a business in the province.
• International Entrepreneur: For experienced business owners or managers who want to establish or acquire a business in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The AIP is a federal-provincial initiative aimed at helping employers in Atlantic Canada, including Newfoundland and Labrador, fill job vacancies that cannot be met by the local workforce. In 2025, the province has an annual allocation of 475 spaces under the AIP.

Post-Invitation Process

Candidates who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through either the NLPNP or AIP have 60 days to submit a complete application for provincial nomination or endorsement. Once the application is approved, the candidate can then apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Provincial Focus and Outlook

Newfoundland and Labrador is expected to maintain its aggressive approach to immigration through regular draws under both the NLPNP and AIP for the remainder of 2025. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to stimulate economic growth and ensure long-term population stability by attracting skilled and qualified newcomers to the province.

The province’s focus remains on addressing labour shortages in key sectors such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. By aligning immigration policies with workforce needs, Newfoundland and Labrador aims to create a sustainable and diverse economy for future generations.

If you are considering immigration to Newfoundland and Labrador, it is important to stay informed about the latest developments in these programs. For detailed, step-by-step insights into application procedures or eligibility criteria for specific immigration streams, consult the official websites or contact the Newfoundland and Labrador Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism directly.

Conclusion

Newfoundland and Labrador continues to prioritize immigration as a key strategy for addressing labour shortages and driving economic growth. With 1,309 ITAs issued so far in 2025 through the NLPNP and AIP, the province is demonstrating its commitment to attracting skilled workers and entrepreneurs. The introduction of the Expression of Interest system has streamlined the selection process, ensuring that candidates align with the province’s economic needs. By securing additional federal allocations, Newfoundland and Labrador has positioned itself to welcome a significant number of newcomers, particularly in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, technology, and skilled trades. As the year progresses, the province is expected to maintain its proactive approach to immigration, offering opportunities for individuals and families to build a future in this vibrant region.

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