Situated on the eastern edge of Canada, Newfoundland and Labrador (NL) stands as a land of captivating landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. With its welcoming communities, economic potential, and high quality of life, it’s no wonder that NL has become an attractive destination for immigrants seeking new beginnings and opportunities.
This page provides an overview of the immigration process, benefits, and the unique offerings that Newfoundland and Labrador holds for prospective immigrants.
Why Choose Newfoundland and Labrador?
- Welcoming Communities: Known for their warmth and hospitality, the people of NL create an inviting atmosphere for newcomers. Strong community bonds, rich traditions, and a sense of belonging make integrating into society a rewarding experience.
- High Quality of Life: NL offers a high standard of living, combining urban amenities with easy access to stunning natural landscapes. From bustling cities to tranquil coastal towns, residents can enjoy a balanced lifestyle that includes outdoor recreation, cultural events, and a strong sense of community.
- Education and Healthcare: Newfoundland and Labrador is home to prestigious universities, colleges, and research institutions that offer a wide range of educational opportunities. Additionally, the province provides a comprehensive healthcare system that ensures the well-being of its residents.
- Cultural Richness: NL takes pride in its cultural heritage, evident in its music, arts, and festivals. Immigrants have the chance to immerse themselves in a dynamic cultural scene that celebrates both local traditions and global influences.
Immigration Pathways
There are various pathways that the provincial government has come out with to aid immigrants through the process. Some of these are as follows:
Express Entry Skilled Worker: Individuals will be required to have a profile in the federal Express Entry pool and have a highly skilled job offer from the employer in the province for at least 2 years. Salary and benefits must also meet the standards of the province.
Skilled Worker: Individuals must have a full-time job offer from an employer in the province, the person will also need to have a work permit to Canada, and the person will also need to demonstrate sufficient language capabilities to be eligible.
International Graduate: The person will need to be at least 21 years of age and have a job offer that’s directly related to the person’s field of study or if the applicant is a graduate of Memorial University or college of the north Atlantic. The individual will also need to have a PGWP with 4 months remaining to its validity.
Priority Skills: Individuals are required to complete an expression of interest and individuals who get the most interest from employers as well are invited to apply through this stream.
International Entrepreneur: The individual must have a net worth of 60,000 Canadian dollars and must be able to invest 20,000 Canadian dollars in a business that they wish to establish in Canada, they must create one full-time job opportunity for Canadian citizens and also have a score of at least 5 in the Canadian language benchmark, if all these requirements are met they shall be sent a letter of invitation by the immigration office of the provincial government.
International Graduate Entrepreneur: The individual must have a valid post-graduate work permit and a minimum score of 7 on the Canadian language benchmark. They must provide a business plan with evidence supporting the financial validity of their plan as well. They must also wish to live in the province for the duration they wish to own and manage a business in the province, the business must be a for-profit entity and must show their profits that they have earned through selling products or service.
Newfoundland and Labrador Priority Skills Immigration Program
The Newfoundland and Labrador Priority Skills Immigration Program is a specialized pathway designed to address the province’s specific labor market needs by attracting skilled workers who possess expertise in key sectors. This program allows qualified individuals to pursue their career aspirations while contributing to the growth and development of Newfoundland and Labrador’s economy. Below, we delve into the details of this innovative program and how it benefits both immigrants and the province.
Candidates interested in the Priority Skills NL program must meet specific criteria tailored to their educational background and work experience. The program considers two main categories of candidates:
- Those with in-demand academic qualifications and
- Those with in-demand work experience
In-demand Academic Candidates:
To be eligible as an in-demand academic candidate, you must:
- Have completed a Ph.D. or Master’s degree from Memorial University within the past three years.
- Specialize in one of the following fields: Technology, Health Care, Aquaculture, or Agriculture.
In-demand Academic Candidates:
To be eligible as an in-demand work candidate, you must:
- Have worked in a specialized, highly skilled, high-demand occupation for at least one full year within the last 10 years.
General Eligibility Criteria:
All candidates, regardless of their category, must meet the following requirements:
- Have taken an IELTS or CELPIP test within the last 12 months and scored equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 or higher.
- Be at least 21 years of age.
- Intend to live permanently in Newfoundland and Labrador.
