Overview of the Newfoundland and Labrador PNP

One of Canada’s ten new provinces, Newfoundland and Labrador, joined the Canadian federation in 1949. This island province was earlier known as "newfoundelande" and comprises the island of Newfoundland and the larger mainland sector of Labrador. The province is made up of 9 distinct regions, and St. Johns is the capital city. Other prominent cities of the province include Mount Pearl, Corner Brook, Torbay, Gander, Paradise, and Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

With a deeply indented wave-batter seacoast stretching up to 23,200 km, the province is a leading producer of fish. The strategic location of the island on the Atlantic has made the province significant for defense, communication, and transportation. These are some of the factors that attract immigrants to work and settle in this Canadian province.

The benefits of migrating to Newfoundland and Labrador include:

• Strong and robust economy
• Ample job opportunities
• Beautiful and dramatic coastlines
• Warm and welcoming environment
• Affordable place to live in
• Blooming job market
• Various job opportunities for international graduates and skilled workers
• Home to some of the best Canadian universities
• Avail of healthcare and other benefits
• Easy immigration policies
• Rich cultural heritage

The province invites foreign skilled workers mainly via two immigration programs. Foreign skilled immigrants willing to work and settle in Newfoundland and Labrador as Canadian permanent residents can apply for the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program or the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program.

 

What is the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)?

Immigrants planning to migrate to Newfoundland and Labrador can avail of one of the immigration pathways offered by the province. One such pathway is the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) via which the province nominates skilled immigrants as per the labour market requirements of the province. Candidates who meet the specific labor market requirements of the province are nominated to settle in the province as Canadian permanent residents (PR).

NLPNP is an excellent economic immigration pathway for international graduates, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs to settle permanently in Newfoundland and Labrador along with their families. It facilitates the immigration program for skilled professionals who can contribute towards the development of the provincial economy by bridging the labor market gaps of the province. The program also provides assistance to applicants via the Immigration Program Development officers.

The NLPNP and all other PNP programs held across the Canadian provinces aim to address the specific labor market demands of each province and ensure that the immigrant population is equally distributed throughout Canada. As per the agreement with IRCC, Newfoundland and Labrador can nominate up to 1050 candidates to apply for Canada PR and settle permanently in the province.

 

NLPNP Immigration Streams

The province of Newfoundland and Labrador offers the following streams under the NLNP:

• NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker: This stream aims to nominate skilled workers with a valid and active Express Entry profile.
• Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker: This stream is for applicants with a valid job offer under an employer in Newfoundland and Labrador or skilled workers already employed in the province.
• NLPNP International Graduate: This stream is designed to invite recent international graduates of Canadian universities who are currently in Canada on a Postgraduate Work Permit (PGWP).
• NLPNP International Entrepreneur: This stream invites entrepreneurs willing to settle in Newfoundland and Labrador so as to set up, buy, or manage a business venture in the province.
• NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur: This stream is dedicated to inviting foreign entrepreneurs who have graduated from a post-secondary institution in Newfoundland and Labrador and are willing to set up, buy, or manage a business venture in the province.

It is believed that “immigration is a key component of economic and labor market growth, and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to doing its part to increase immigration to the province.” Applicants who qualify for any of the streams mentioned above are eligible to apply for Canada PR after they receive a nomination certificate. Candidates can use this certificate while filing their Canada PR application form. 

 

NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker

The Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program is linked with the federal Express Entry system through the NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker stream. As evident from the name itself, this stream is focused on inviting skilled workers who have an active and valid Express Entry profile.

Skilled workers who meet the specific requirements of Newfoundland and Labrador's workforce demands are nominated by the province via this stream. Nominated candidates get 600 additional points under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, which increases their chance of receiving an ITA in the upcoming Express Entry draw.

 

Express Entry Skilled Worker Eligibility Criteria

You would be eligible to apply for the NLPNP Skilled Worker stream if you:

• Have a valid profile in the Express Entry candidate pool
• Have a full-time job offer in a TEER 0,1, 2, or 3 job role from an employer in Newfoundland and Labrador
• Have a valid Canadian work permit
• Have completed a post-secondary degree or diploma and an ECA report (if applicable)
• Have professional work experience of at least 2 years
• Have scored more than 67 points under the NLPNP Points Assessment Grid
• Have the relevant skills, education, and work experience required for your job role
• Meet the language requirements as specified
• Can provide proof of funds
• Are willing to work and settle in Newfoundland and Labrador

 

Documents required for Express Entry Skilled Worker category

The following are the documents required for Express Entry Skilled Worker Category:

• A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
• Valid Canadian work permits, study permits, or visitor visas (if available)
• Documents to prove your identity and civil status
• Express Entry profile number
• Job Seeker validation Code
• Documents showing your employment details
• NLPNP Employment offer completed by your employer
• Proof of work experience
• Proof of funds
• Educational qualification details and ECA report (if applicable)
• Language proficiency test results
• Police clearance certificates
• Proof of relationship to family members residing in Canada (if applicable)

Note: All documents provided should be either in English or French language.

 

Steps to Apply for NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker

The following are the steps to apply for NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker Category:

Step 1: Enter the Express Entry pool of applicants

Step 2: Fill out the NLPNP application form along with your Express Entry profile number and Job Seeker Validation Code

Step 3: Arrange the documents required

Step 4: Wait for your nomination

Step 5: Await your ITA after you receive a NLPNP nomination

 

NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker Processing time and fees

The processing time for NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker is 25 days to 6 months and application fee of CAD 250 is charged for applicants.

Responsibilities of the nominees

Applicants who receive a nomination from the NLPNP must inform the Provincial Immigration Officer in case of:

• Change of residential address
• Change in job or loss of employment
• Birth of a child
• Entering the province
• Change in marital status
• Receiving a notification on a work permit application
• Receiving a decision on the PR application
• Other changes worth mentioning

 

What happens after your application is submitted?

Once you submit your NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker application, the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism (OIM) reviews and verify it and aim to inform about their decision within 25 working days.

 

Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker

The Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker stream aims to invite foreign nationals with the relevant skills to contribute towards the Newfoundland and Labrador labor market requirements. Applicants with a valid job offer from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer and a valid Canadian work permit can apply under this stream.

 

Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker Eligibility

You would be eligible to apply for the Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker category if you:

• Are aged between 21 and 59 years
• Have a full-time job offer in a TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 Occupation under a Newfoundland and Labrador employer
• Have a job offer that meets the specific labour market requirement of the province
• Have relevant qualifications, skills, and experience in your job field
• Can provide proof of settlement funds
• Meet the language proficiency requirement
• Have a valid Canadian Work Permit
• Are willing to settle in the province permanently

 

Documents Required for Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker

The following are the documents required for the Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker category:

• A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
• Recent passport-sized pictures
• Completed application form for Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker
• Details of travel history and temporary visit visas (if available)
• Work permits/study permits
• Documents showing identity and civil status
• Job offer letter and employment details
• Academic qualification details and ECA reports
• NLPNP employment letter completed by the employer
• Proof of language proficiency
• Criminal clearance reports
• Health Insurance details
• Proof of relationship with family members residing in Canada (if applicable)

 

Steps to Apply for Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker

The following are the steps to apply for Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker stream:

Step 1: Get a job offer from an employer in Newfoundland and Labrador

Step 2: Fill out the Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker application form

Step 3: Gather the documents required

Step 4: Wait for your nomination

Step 5: Submit a work permit application

Step 6: Apply for Permanent Residency

Step 7: Work and settle in Newfoundland and Labrador

 

Decision-making process for Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker

Once the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism (OIM) receives a complete application form, the application is assigned to a provincial immigration officer for screening and verification of documents. If the application is through, the delegated authority will make a final decision. The OIM will notify you about their decision within 25 business days.

 

Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker Processing Time and Fees

NLPNP Skilled Worker applications are usually processed within 25-30 working days. No fee is charged to apply to the NLPNP Skilled Worker Category.

 

NLPNP International Graduate

The NLPNP International Graduate Stream aims to nominate recent international graduates from eligible post-secondary institutions in the province or Canada. Students who have a Postgraduate Work Permit(PGWP) or have a job or an employment offer from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer related to their field of study can apply for the NLPNP International Graduate stream.

 

NLPNP International Graduate Eligibility

You would be eligible to apply for the NLPNP International Graduate stream if you:

• Are aged between 21 and 59 years
• Have an IRCC-issued post-graduation Work Permit  (PGWP) with a minimum validity of 4 months at the time of applying
• Have a full-time job offer listed as a TEER 0,1,2 or 3 occupation from a Newfoundland and Labrador employer
• Have the relevant education, skills, and work experience for your job field
• Have enough financial resources and proof of settlement funds
• Hold a full-time degree from a post-secondary program that is related to your job role
• Have completed your studies at a recognized post-secondary educational institution
• Meet the language proficiency requirements
• Have the intention and ability to settle in Newfoundland and Labrador

 

Documents required for NLPNP International Graduate

The following are the documents required for the NLPNP International Graduate stream:

• A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
• Recent passport-sized pictures
• Completed application form for Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker
• Details of travel history and temporary visit visas (if available)
• Work permits/study permits
• Documents showing identity and civil status
• Job offer letter and employment details
• Academic qualification details
• NLPNP employment letter completed by the employer
• Proof of language proficiency
• Criminal clearance reports
• Health Insurance details
• Proof of relationship with family members residing in Canada (if applicable)

 

Steps to Apply for NLPNP International Graduate

You can apply for the NLPNP International Graduate by following the steps mentioned below:

Step 1: Get an employment offer from an employer in Newfoundland and Labrador

Step 2: check if you meet the field of study requirement

Step 3: Fill out the NLPNP application form

Step 4: Submit the NLPNP application along with the documents required

Step 5: Wait for your nomination

Step 6: Apply for PR and work permit (if needed)

Step 7: Settle in the Newfoundland and Labrador as a Canadian PR 

 

NLPNP International Graduate Processing Time and Fees

The processing time for NLPNP International Graduate applications is around 25 to 30 working days. No application fee is charged for NLPNP International Graduate applications.

 

NLPNP International Entrepreneur Category

The NLPNP International Entrepreneur Category is designed to invite international entrepreneurs planning to set up, buy, or co-manage a business in Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

NLPNP International Entrepreneur Category Eligibility

You would be eligible to apply for the NLPNP International Entrepreneur Category if you:

• Are aged between 21 and 59 years
• Can provide a business plan along with your financial documentation verified by a recognized third-party professional
• Have a minimum education qualification of a high school diploma or equivalent education accepted and verified by an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
• Have assets or savings worth a minimum of CAD 600,000, which can be transferred to Canada
• Can make a minimum investment of CAD 200,000 to set up a business in the province with at least 33.3% ownership or CAD 1 million equity investment
• Can create at least one full-time job for the local population of the province
• Can show that the primary purpose of your business is to make profits through selling goods or services
• Have a minimum experience of two years in owning or managing a business or 25% ownership
• Have scored more than 5 CLB or equivalent in any of the language proficiency tests accepted in Canada
• Have submitted an Expression of Interest
• Have received an Invitation to Apply from the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism
• Are willing to settle in the province as a Canadian Permanent Resident

 

Documents Required for NLPNP International Entrepreneur Category

The following are the documents required for the NLPNP International Entrepreneur Category:

• A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months
• Recent passport-sized pictures
• Completed application form for Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker
• Details of travel history and temporary visit visas (if available)
• Work permits/study permits
• Documents showing identity and civil status  
• Academic qualification details
• Business Performance Agreement
• Documents demonstrating your assets
• Net worth verification report
• Proof of owning or managing a business venture in the past
• Proof of language proficiency
• Criminal clearance reports
• Health Insurance details

 

Steps to Apply for NLPNP International Entrepreneur Category

The following are the steps to apply for the NLPNP International Entrepreneur category:

Step 1: Check your eligibility for the NLPNP International Entrepreneur category

Step 2: Begin an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Step 3: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

Step 4: Fill out the application form along with the supporting documents

Step 5: Complete the fee payment

Step 6: Wait for a decision

Step 7: Settle in Newfoundland and Labrador permanently

 

Processing time and fees for the NLPNP International Entrepreneur category

The processing time for NLPNP International Entrepreneur category applicants actually depends on the time taken to verify the documents you have submitted. The application fee for the NLPNP International Entrepreneur category is CAD 1000.

 

NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur

The NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur focuses on inviting international entrepreneurs who have graduated from a post-secondary institution in Newfoundland and Labrador and are willing to set up, buy, or manage a business venture in the province.

 

NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur Eligibility

You would be eligible to apply for NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur if you:

• Are at least 21 years old
• Can provide a business continuity plan along with financial documentation verified by a third-party professional service
• Hold a diploma or degree from Memorial University or College of the North Atlantic
• Have a diploma or degree after attending two years of full-time, offline study
• Hold a valid PGWP
• Have a minimum 1 year experience of owning or managing a business (33.3% minimum ownership)
• Can create a full-time job for the local population of the province

• Can show that the primary purpose of your business is to make profits through selling goods or services
• Have a minimum experience of two years in owning or managing a business or 25% ownership
• Have scored more than 7 CLB or equivalent in any of the language proficiency tests accepted in Canada
• Have submitted an Expression of Interest
• Have received an Invitation to Apply from the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism
• Are willing to settle in the province as a Canadian Permanent Resident

 

Documents required for NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur

The following are the documents needed to apply for the NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur category:

• NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur application form
• Valid passport and travel documents
• Identity and civil status documents
• Documents demonstrating details about your children or dependents (if applicable)
• Documents demonstrating your residence in the province
• Educational qualification documents
• Language proficiency test results
• Documents to show details of your business
• Recent bank statement
• Investment documents
• Job creation documents
• Medical test results
• Police clearance reports
• Proof of relationship with family members living in Canada

 

Steps to Apply for NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur

You can apply for NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur by following the steps mentioned below:

Step 1: Submit an Expression of Interest  

Step 2: Wait for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) to be issued

Step 3: Attend an in-person interview to discuss your business continuity plan

Step 4: Apply for PR

Step 5: Wait for a decision

Step 6: Settle in the province permanently

 

Processing time and fee for NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur

The processing time for NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur category applicants actually depends on the time taken to verify the documents you have submitted. No provincial application fee is charged for NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur applicants. However, applicants might have to pay to acquire and prepare documents according to the checklist provided.

 

Can I immigrate to Newfoundland and Labrador via the Atlantic Immigration program?

Skilled workers willing to work and settle in Newfoundland and Labrador can also migrate via the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program. The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is designed to invite immigrants willing to settle in one of the four Atlantic provinces of Canada, which include New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The program allows local employers to recruit and retain foreign talent in the four Atlantic Provinces.

 

Atlantic Immigration Program for Newfoundland and Labrador (AIP NL)

Newfoundland and Labrador takes part in the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program, which offers permanent residence to eligible skilled workers who have a valid employment offer in the province. Employers of the province can use this program to hire candidates who would fill up job vacancies in Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

AIP NL Eligibility

You would be eligible to apply for the AIP NL if you:

• Have a valid job offer in the province
• Have the relevant education, skills, and work experience required to meet the labor market requirements of the province
• Have a minimum work experience of 1560 hours in a TEER 0,1,2 or 3 occupation (not required for international graduates)
• Hold a diploma, degree, or apprentice certificate acquired after a 2-years-study program from a recognized post-secondary institution in the province.
• Meet the language proficiency requirements
• Have a sufficient amount of settlement funds
• Are willing to work and settle in Newfoundland and Labrador as a permanent resident

 

Documents required to apply for AIP

The following are the documents needed to apply for AIP NL:

• Valid passport and travel documents
• Identity and civil status documents
• Documents demonstrating details about your children or dependents (if applicable)
• Educational qualification documents
• ECA reports
• Proof of funds
• Language proficiency test results
• Medical test results
• Police clearance reports
• Proof of relationship with family members living in Canada
• Other documents required to apply for Canada PR

The table below lists the amount of settlement funds required to apply for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP):

Number of family members (even if they are not included in the application)	Funds required
1	$3,303
2	$4,112
3	$5,055
4	$6,138
5	$6,962
6	$7,852
7 or more	$8,742
Each additional family member	$890

 

How to apply for AIP NL?

You can apply for AIP NL by following the steps mentioned below:

Step 1: Get a job offer that meets the requirements of AIP and the provincial labour market

Step 2: Send your settlement plan to your employer

Step 3: Wait for your provincial endorsement certificate

Step 4: Apply for PR

Step 5: Wait for a decision

 

AIP Processing time and fee

AIP applications are generally processed within 7 months, excluding the time given to upload your biometrics. The processing fee for the AIP application is CAD 1,525.

 

Newfoundland and Labrador PNP Points Calculator

NLPNP uses a points-based system to assess eligibility and nominate candidates for the program. Newfoundland and Labrador have their own point assessment grid, via which the province allots points to each NLPNP applicant. Applicants must score a minimum of 67 points out of 100 on the NLPNP Point Assessment Grid.

The NLPNP Point Assessment Grid is based on the following factors:

• Factor 1: Labour Market Success Indicators (max. 87 points)
  • Education and training: Maximum 28 points
  • Skilled Work Experience: Maximum 20 points
  • Language Proficiency: Maximum 27 points
  • Age: Maximum 12 points
• Factor 2: Connection to Labour Market and Adaptability (max. 13 points)

The table below has the complete breakdown of the NLPNP point assessment grid:

POINT ASSESSMENT GRID FACTOR I: LABOUR MARKET SUCCESS INDICATORS
FACTOR I (A): EDUCATION & TRAINING
Master's or Doctorate; OR	28
University Degree that required at least three years of full-time study OR	23
Trade certification equivalent to journeyperson status in Newfoundland and Labrador (this credential must be approved by the Department of Advanced Education and Skills); OR	23
Degree, diploma, or certificate that required at least two years of full-time post-secondary study or certificate equivalent; OR	18
Degree, diploma, or certificate that required at least one year of full-time post-secondary study or certificate equivalent to a trade certificate	15
FACTOR I (B): SKILLED WORK EXPERIENCE
(A) WORK EXPERIENCE DURING THE MOST RECENT FIVE YEARS PRIOR TO APPLICATION
5 years	15
4 years	12
3 years	9
2 years	6
1 year	3
(B) WORK EXPERIENCE DURING THE SIX TO 10-YEAR PERIOD PRIOR TO APPLICATION
5 years	7
4 years	6
3 years	5
2 years	4
1 year	2
FACTOR I (C): LANGUAGE ABILITY
First Language
CLB 8 and higher	27
CLB 7	23
CLB 6	21
CLB 5	19
FACTOR I (D): AGE
<18 years	0
18-21 years	8
22-33 years	12
34-45 years	10
46-50 years	8
>50 years	0
FACTOR II: CONNECTION TO LABOUR MARKET and ADAPTABILITY
Close relative in Newfoundland and Labrador (the applicant or accompanying spouse has a close relative that is a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident residing in Newfoundland and Labrador – includes: parent, sibling, grandparent, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, cousin and step-family members or in-laws of the same relationships).	7
Previous work experience in Newfoundland and Labrador (the applicant worked in Newfoundland and Labrador for at least twelve months in the past five years on a valid work permit).	3
Previous student experience in Newfoundland and Labrador (the applicant studied at a recognized Newfoundland and Labrador educational institution for at least one full-time academic year on a valid study permit).	3
MAXIMUM POINTS TOTAL - FACTOR I and II 100	100

 

NLPNP Processing Time and Fees

The table below has the details of processing times and fees for each NLPNP stream:

NLPNP Immigration streams	Processing time	Fees (in CAD)
NLPNP Express Entry Skilled Worker	25 days to 6 months	CAD 250
Newfoundland and Labrador Skilled Worker	25-30 working days	No fee
NLPNP International Graduate	25 to 30 working days	No fee
NLPNP International Entrepreneur	25 to 30 working days	CAD 1000
NLPNP International Graduate Entrepreneur	25 to 30 working days	No fee

 

What to do if you receive a nomination?

Once you receive a provincial nomination from the NLPNP, you must apply for Canada PR to the IRCC. The steps to apply for Canada PR are listed below:

Step 1: Arrange all the documents according to the checklist

Step 2: Fill out the Canada PR application form

Step 3: Apply for Canada PR along with the supporting documents

Step 4: Complete the fee payment

The IRCC will issue the following documents once your fee payment is done:

• Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
• PR visa
• Letter having details about your COPR and other requisites

 

What to do if you do not receive a nomination?

If you do not receive a NLPNP nomination because of being ineligible, then you may reapply after you fulfil the specific requirements. The OIM will notify you about the reasons for your rejection.

Common mistakes to avoid while applying for NLPNP

Your PNP application might get rejected because of the following mistakes:

• Not meeting the eligibility requirements
• Submitting incomplete application
• Not providing supporting documents
• Not replying to follow-up emails
• Not abiding by Canadian inadmissibility issues

 

How can Y-Axis help you?

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• Arranging the immigration document checklist
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• Obtaining Canadian Permanent Residence