New Brunswick Suspends Multiple Permanent Residence Pathways
New Brunswick has temporarily halted several of its immigration streams as the allocation quotas for the year have been fulfilled. As of November 15, the following programs are suspended: the New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program, the New Brunswick Private Career College Graduate Pilot, and the Exploratory Visit Connection under the New Brunswick Strategic Initiative.
New Brunswick Atlantic Immigration Program
Suspended Until: End of Year
The New Brunswick government has announced a pause in accepting and processing Employer Expressions of Interest (EOIs) under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). However, applications for candidates who have already submitted full Employer Designation applications will continue to be processed. Additionally, individuals who have received an employer-issued Invitation to Apply (ITA) can still proceed to submit their Employer Designation application. Candidates should keep an eye on the province’s official website for updates. The AIP is a pathway designed for skilled workers looking to settle in Atlantic Canada, requiring candidates to have a job offer from a designated employer in the area. Those interested might consider exploring options in Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, where the AIP remains active.
New Brunswick Private Career College Graduate Pilot
Suspended Until: End of Year
Issuance of new nomination certificates under this pilot has been paused. Candidates with an ITA can still submit their complete nomination application. However, applicants whose 90-day eligibility period expires before nominations resume in January will need to find other immigration pathways. This pilot program caters to international graduates from select one-year and two-year courses leading to careers in key sectors such as education, IT, and healthcare. It is available specifically for graduates from certain private career colleges in New Brunswick not eligible for the federal Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Exploratory Visit Connection under New Brunswick Strategic Initiative
Suspended Until: Further Notice
No new ITAs will be issued under the Exploratory Visit Connection, but current EOIs remain valid for 365 days and may be considered if the stream reopens within that timeframe. EOIs submitted before March 12, 2024, will not be reviewed. This initiative is aimed at French-speaking foreign nationals and involves a mandatory exploratory visit to New Brunswick, requiring a stay of at least five full business days for employment-focused research.
Conclusion
New Brunswick’s decision to pause these programs highlights the importance of monitoring program availability and adapting plans accordingly. Candidates should explore alternative options in surrounding provinces and check back for updates early in 2025.
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