Immigration

Updates to Nova Scotia Immigration in 2025 – What You Need to Know

September 25, 2025

According to the Government of Nova Scotia, there is strong interest in the province’s economic immigration programs, and applications in 2025 are exceeding the number that can be approved. As a result, priority processing is being applied to certain workers and sectors.

Who we’re Prioritizing in 2025

People already living and working in Nova Scotia with work permits expiring in 2025
Within this group, priority is given to:

  • Healthcare and social assistance (NAICS 62)
  • Construction (NAICS 23)

Additional considerations include: regional needs across the province and people likely to stay long term in Nova Scotia.

Applications from Outside Canada

  • International applicants in healthcare, social assistance, and construction continue to be prioritized.
  • Most other applications from outside Canada will not be processed, with exceptions under the Atlantic Immigration Program for employers hiring in:
    • Trucking
    • Science and technology
    • Clean energy sectors
    • Resource development

Occupations in Demand Stream – Eligibility

The Occupations in Demand stream may be right for you IF you meet ALL of the criteria below:

  • You will be paid a sufficient wage or salary for your job.
  • Your job offer is in one of these NOC job categories:
    • NOC 33102: Nurse Aides
    • NOC 65200: Food and beverage servers
    • NOC 65201: Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers and related support occupations
    • NOC 65310: Light duty cleaners
    • NOC 73300: Transport truck drivers
    • NOC 73400: Heavy equipment operators
    • NOC 75110: Construction trades helpers and labourers
  • You are between the ages of 21 and 55.
  • You have a high school diploma AND you have the training, skills, and credentials needed for the job.
  • You have proof of your immigration status in the country where you are currently living.
  • You have worked 12 complete calendar months within the last 5 years and a minimum of 1,560 hours. This work must be related to the job you are being offered AND it must be paid work. It cannot include volunteer work or unpaid internships.

Planning for 2026

In 2026, priority will again be given to workers in healthcare, social assistance, and construction with permits expiring that year. Other priorities will be set once Nova Scotia receives its federal allocation.

Additional Notes

  • Not all eligible applications will be processed
  • Meeting program criteria does not guarantee approval
  • Applicants must maintain legal status in Canada and report any changes to their status or job

📧 For inquiries, contact: info@hinotori.ca

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