Nova Scotia has recently streamlined its provincial immigration pathways, reducing the number of streams under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) from 10 to 4 as of February 18, 2026. The eligibility criteria for all pathways remain the same, now consolidated into four main streams: Skilled Worker, Nova Scotia Graduate, Entrepreneur, and Nova Scotia: Express Entry. Candidates with active Expressions of Interest (EOIs) in the NSNP pool are not affected by this change. The province’s aim is to modernize its immigration streams to provide clearer pathways for newcomers and employers while streamlining processing.

Consolidation of Streams

The new taxonomy groups the former 10 streams into four main categories. Under the Skilled Worker stream, pathways include Skilled Worker, Critical Construction Worker Pilot, Physicians, and Occupations in Demand. The Nova Scotia: Express Entry stream now encompasses Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry, Labour Market Priorities, and Labour Market Priorities for Physicians. The Entrepreneur stream includes Entrepreneur and International Graduate Entrepreneur pathways. Lastly, the Nova Scotia Graduates stream, formerly known as International Graduates in Demand, remains unchanged with a single pathway.

Skilled Worker Stream Eligibility

To qualify for the Skilled Worker stream, candidates must meet specific criteria, including being between 21 to 55 years old, having a full-time job offer from a local employer, and meeting the necessary training and skills requirements for the position. Additionally, candidates must fulfill the minimum work experience criteria based on their job role.