Nova Scotia expands nominations to target workers with expiring permits
Nova Scotia has introduced a one-time initiative to expand its nominations for workers with expiring permits. This move aims to support workers in the province who are at risk of losing their status due to expiring permits. The key points of this initiative include an active expression of interest (EOI) submitted on or before June 30, 2026, and meeting specific requirements. Workers with expiring work permits in 2026 or earlier may be eligible for consideration. The initiative is designed to provide a pathway for these workers to remain in Nova Scotia.
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) website published a news release announcing the NSNP will issue invitations to apply for provincial nomination to eligible candidates living and working in Nova Scotia. To be eligible, candidates must have an active EOI submitted on or before June 30, 2026, and meet specific requirements. The requirements include earning at least $27/hr at the time of EOI submission, or earning at least $20/hr in a TEER 0–2 Sales and Service occupation. Workers graduating from a Nova Scotia postsecondary institution, employed in any occupation, may also be eligible.
what has changed
The NSNP has expanded its nominations to target workers with expiring permits. This initiative affects workers in Nova Scotia who are at risk of losing their status due to expiring permits. Candidates selected through this initiative will be contacted directly. When determining the order in which selected applications are processed, work permit expiry may be considered as a secondary factor.
who is eligible
Workers in Nova Scotia with expiring work permits in 2026 or earlier are eligible for this initiative. They must have an active EOI submitted on or before June 30, 2026, and meet specific requirements. For instance, they need to earn at least $27/hr at the time of EOI submission, or at least $20/hr in a TEER 0–2 Sales and Service occupation. Additionally, workers graduating from a Nova Scotia postsecondary institution, employed in any occupation, may also qualify.
applying for the initiative
If you are a worker in Nova Scotia with an expiring work permit, you should check your eligibility for the NSNP. You can submit an EOI through the NSNP online system and apply for provincial nomination if you meet the requirements. It's worth noting that this initiative does not replace or supersede the priority occupations announced in April. For more information on the NSNP and its streams, you can visit the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) page.
next steps after selection
If you are selected for provincial nomination, you will need to apply for permanent residence through the federal government's immigration department. In certain situations, you can also apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). For more information on the BOWP and other work permit options, you can visit the Work Permit page.
related immigration programs
The NSNP is one of the many Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) available in Canada. Other programs, such as the Express Entry program, may also be available to workers with expiring permits. You can find more information on these programs and how to apply by visiting the IRCC website or consulting with a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC).
Official current rules are at canada.ca/immigration; this guide is independent reference content.