Nova Scotia Nominee Program

Candidates choose a stream that aligns with their qualifications and experience and submits an online expression of interest (EOI).   

Note: if an EOI is incomplete you will be notified that your EOI is closed. Before you resubmit, ensure you qualify and include all required documentation.   

The submission enters an EOI pool and becomes eligible for selection in future draws.  

Note: Submissions to the EOI pool does not guarantee selection, assessment, or approval.   

Nova Scotia periodically selects submissions from the EOI pool based on provincial priorities and program capacity.  

The following may be taken into consideration during the selection process including, but not limited to:  

• Labour market needs  
• Occupation or sector priorities  
• Likelihood of retention in Nova Scotia  
• Intended region of employment  
• Candidate immigration status in Canada 
• Available program allocations  
• Program integrity considerations  
• Volume and competitiveness of EOIs in the pool  

Note: Selections are not made on a first-come, first-served basis, and are not guaranteed.  

If your submission is selected, you will receive a notification with instructions and have 7 calendar days to review your application, upload any updated documents and pay the application fee.   

Note: More information on application fees can be found here.  

You will be able to upload your updated documents, including proof of fee payment once you are selected for assessment. All documents must be current, complete, and accurate.  

Note: You are not able to upload new documents until you receive notice of selection.   

Failure to provide documentation and payment within 7 calendar days will result in the closure of your EOI and your submission will not proceed to assessment. Candidates may submit a new EOI if they continue to meet eligibility requirements. 

Applications are assessed based on the documents and information submitted, and whether all program requirements are met.  

Applications that do not meet program requirements will be refused. 

Applications that meet requirements may receive a nomination, and a letter of support for a work permit, if applicable.  

Several factors may affect the time required to assess an application and may result in a longer decision timeline, including:   

• Program integrity reviews 
• Employer compliance verification 
• Requests for additional information or documentation 
• Volume of applications under assessment 

Application fees are charged for the assessment of an application and are non-refundable, even if the application is refused.  

Your submission will remain in the EOI pool for future consideration.