Nova Scotia remains one of Canada’s most strategic provinces for skilled immigrants, particularly those already in the Express Entry pool. Through the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP), the province continues to nominate candidates who match its labour market priorities—offering a strong pathway to Canadian permanent residence.

Unlike federal Express Entry draws that publish CRS cut-offs publicly, Nova Scotia follows a different selection model, which is important for applicants to understand clearly.

Does Nova Scotia Conduct Enhanced PNP Draws?

Yes — but not in the same way as IRCC’s federal draws.

Nova Scotia selects candidates for nomination through Express Entry–aligned NSNP streams, primarily:

• Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry
• Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities (Express Entry)

Selections are made directly from the federal Express Entry pool, based on provincial labour needs, not on a publicly announced CRS cut-off.

This means:

• Nova Scotia does not publish regular draw scores or invitation counts
• Candidates receive a Letter of Interest (LOI) directly in their Express Entry profile
• Selection criteria can change from draw to draw

This approach is confirmed by Nova Scotia’s official immigration authority and IRCC.

Nova Scotia Latest PNP Draw

Nova Scotia conducted a Labour Market Priorities draw on June 5, 2025, inviting Express Entry candidates working in healthcare and skilled trades.

Key details:

• Stream: Labour Market Priorities (NSNP)
• CRS range: 345–467
• Targeted NOCs:
  • 33102 – Nurses
  • 73301 – Electricians
• Requirement: Valid Express Entry profile with relevant work experience

Even candidates with moderate CRS scores may receive an invitation if their occupation matches Nova Scotia’s labour needs.

As per official provincial updates in 2025, Nova Scotia continues to issue targeted Letters of Interest to Express Entry candidates who meet specific criteria, such as:

• Work experience in priority occupations
• Strong language proficiency (English or French)
• Relevant Canadian or Nova Scotia work experience
• Ability to settle successfully in the province

How Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities Stream Works

The Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities stream is fully aligned with Express Entry and allows the province to target candidates who:

• Are already eligible under FSWP or CEC
• Meet specific occupation, language, or experience criteria
• Can immediately support provincial workforce needs

When selected:

1. You receive a Letter of Interest (LOI) in Express Entry
2. You apply to Nova Scotia within the given deadline
3. Upon nomination, you receive 600 additional CRS points
4. You are invited in the next federal Express Entry draw

This nomination almost guarantees permanent residence approval if documentation is accurate.

Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry Stream

This stream is designed for candidates who:

• Have at least 1 year of skilled work experience in Nova Scotia
• Hold a valid Express Entry profile
• Meet language and education requirements
• Intend to live and work in Nova Scotia long-term

For candidates already working in Nova Scotia, this remains one of the strongest and most predictable PR pathways.

Why Nova Scotia Is Strategic for Express Entry Candidates

Nova Scotia’s approach offers several advantages:

Targeted Selection (Not CRS-Driven Alone)

Candidates with moderate CRS scores can still be selected if their profile matches provincial needs.

Express Entry Nomination = 600 CRS Points

A provincial nomination practically guarantees an ITA from IRCC.

High Demand Occupations

Nova Scotia frequently prioritises:

• Healthcare professionals
• Trades & construction workers
• IT & engineering professionals
• Early childhood educators
• Transport & logistics workers

Lower Competition Than Large Provinces

Compared to Ontario or BC, Nova Scotia’s applicant pool is smaller and more focused.

Who Should Consider Nova Scotia Express Entry Pathways?

You should strongly consider Nova Scotia if:

• Your CRS score is not competitive in general draws
• You have experience in in-demand occupations
• You already work or have worked in Nova Scotia
• You are open to settling in Atlantic Canada
• You want a province-driven PR strategy

How to Improve Your Chances for Nova Scotia Selection

Practical steps that matter:

• Keep your Express Entry profile updated
• Ensure your NOC code accurately reflects your job duties
• Improve language scores where possible
• Gain Canadian work experience (if already in Canada)
• Monitor NSNP announcements and eligibility changes

Nova Scotia selections are highly targeted, so profile accuracy is critical.

What to Expect Next

Based on official provincial practice, Nova Scotia is expected to:

• Continue quiet, targeted Express Entry selections
• Focus on labour shortages and retention
• Prioritise candidates who can settle long-term
• Maintain Express Entry alignment rather than open draws

There is no fixed draw schedule, making preparedness more important than timing.

Nova Scotia does not run public Express Entry draws with CRS cut-offs — instead, it uses targeted selection directly from the Express Entry pool through NSNP streams.

For skilled workers who understand this system and prepare strategically, Nova Scotia offers one of the most effective and realistic PR pathways in Canada.