Nova Scotia Nominee Program - AppGuide-NSNP-SW-English
Nova Scotia Nominee Program - AppGuide-NSNP-SW-English
Nova Scotia Nominee Program - AppGuide-NSNP-SW-English
Skilled Worker
Application
Guide
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Introduction
This guide explains how you can apply to the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) through the Skilled
Worker stream to be nominated for permanent residence. The NSNP is an immigration recruitment and
selection program that allows the Government of Nova Scotia to nominate to the Canadian government
individuals who can meet the provincial labour market and economic needs and who intend to establish
themselves in Nova Scotia. Nominees, along with their spouse and dependents, approved under this program
may become permanent residents of Canada following approval by the Canadian government. This stream is
part of an economic immigration program, and is not intended to be used for family reunification, protected
persons, or humanitarian or compassionate reasons.
The NSNP Skilled Worker stream assists employers in hiring workers whose skills are in limited supply in the
province. The stream helps employers recruit and/or retain foreign workers with the required skills for positions
that they have been unable to fill with a permanent resident or Canadian citizen.
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program is only one means of applying for permanent resident status in Canada.
Applicants are encouraged to explore alternatives at the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website
(http://www.cic.gc.ca/).
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Fees
There is no provincial application fee under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). You must, however,
pay all the required Government of Canada immigration fees when you submit your file to Citizenship and
Immigration Canada (CIC).
Disclaimer
The NSNP and its streams are dependent upon application volumes and labour market needs. NSNP and
stream criteria may change without notice. The NSNP reserves the right to close or suspend application intake
for any NSNP stream at any time. Regardless of when an application was submitted, the NSNP may decline to
consider applications in closed or suspended streams. If application criteria or forms are updated or if there are
changes to the NSNP or its streams including closure or suspension of a stream, you will find the most current
information at http://novascotiaimmigration.com/immigrate/. Applications may be assessed with the most current
criteria irrespective of the date of submission of an application. By submitting an application to the NSNP, you
agree and acknowledge that the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration is not obligated to assess or process any
application submitted. Applications to the NSNP are treated as an expression of interest, and may be processed
at the NSNPs discretion, in a manner that will best support the goals of the NSNP. This can be based on
application volumes, quality of the application, labour market information, occupational supply and demand
forecasting, and/or any other factors as determined by the NSNP. By submitting an application to the NSNP you
agree and acknowledge the decision whether to assess or process any application, and the outcome of that
assessment or processing is at the NSNPs sole discretion. You also agree and acknowledge that meeting
NSNP basic eligibility requirements does not guarantee nomination or that your application will be assessed or
processed. You also agree and acknowledge that a nomination from the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration does
not guarantee that a permanent resident visa will be issued, and that the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration is
not responsible for any processes or decisions of Citizenship and Immigration Canada.
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in Canada illegally, under a removal order, or are prohibited from entering or being in Canada;
an international graduate who has studied in Canada, whose studies have been sponsored by an
agency or government and who is contractually obligated to return to their country of origin;
on a valid federal post-graduation work permit whose occupation falls under NOC skill Level D;
the spouse of an international student at a Canadian post-secondary institution who is not in his/her last
academic year of studies;
an individual with unresolved custody or child support disputes affecting any dependent;
a passive investor (individuals who intend to invest in a Nova Scotia business with very limited or no
involvement in the day-to-day management of the business).
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Job Offer
You must have a full-time, permanent1 job offer from a Nova Scotia employer before submitting an
application to the NSNP Skilled Worker stream. Provincial priorities may change as skills shortages are met by
permanent residents or Canadian citizens. Generally, the NSNP will not support nominations in occupations
where labour market information shows that there are individuals in Nova Scotia with the necessary skills and
that there is no indication of a skills shortage. The Nova Scotia Office of Immigration, however, will consider
local labour market conditions.
Occupations
The Office of Immigration does not have a specific occupation or skills shortage list for the Skilled Worker
Stream. The Office of Immigration uses the National Occupation Classification (NOC) to classify jobs according
to duties, formal qualifications and experience specified by the employer. The NOC helps determine whether a
job meets the skill levels established for skilled and semi-skilled worker occupations, and whether the
candidates qualifications and experience match the requirements of the job. The NOC matrix provides an
overview of the entire occupational classification structure based on skill levels and skill types. For more details
on NOC skill levels and types, visit http://www5.hrsdc.gc.ca/NOC/English/NOC/2011/AboutNOC.aspx.
The Office of Immigration differentiates between skilled workers, semi-skilled and low-skilled workers.
Skilled workers are defined as individuals with an occupation within NOC 0, A or B. Priority will be awarded to
these higher skilled occupations.
Semi-skilled workers have occupations that fall under NOC C. The Office of Immigration may consider
applications based on local labour market requirement and conditions, and six (6) months of work with the Nova
Scotia employer supporting the application.
Low-skilled workers have occupations that fall under NOC D. The Office of Immigration may consider
applications from individuals in these occupations only if all other eligibility criteria are met, the principal
applicant has worked for at least six (6) months2 with the Nova Scotia employer supporting the application,
there are indicators of success in the application, and there is strong employer support such as contribution to
the immigration fees, accommodation/housing, language training, career training plans.
The Office of Immigration will not consider applications from individuals on a federal post-graduation work permit
whose occupations fall under NOC D.
The Office of Immigration reserves the right to consider only certain types of jobs and occupations for
nomination. This decision will depend on the current economic situation of the Nova Scotia labour market needs.
1 A permanent job has no pre-determined end date; it is a long-term job offer. Full-time employment means that the employee is expected to work
year round and, on average, at least 30 hours a week.
2
In most cases, employers need to obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Service Canada to hire a temporary foreign
worker in Canada.
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have made a genuine effort to recruit qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents and
can demonstrate that they will provide additional supports to assist newcomers with their settlement
needs.
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4
NOC
C and D
(mandatory language
testing)
Listening
Reading
Writing
Speaking
3.5
CELPIP test results for each ability (if test taken before April
2H
2H
1st,
2014)
2H
2H
CELPIP test results for each ability (if test taken on or after April 1st, 2014)
4
121
181
181
NOC
0, A & B
(non-mandatory
language testing)
CELPIP test results for each ability (if test taken before April 1st, 2014)
3L
3L
3L
3L
CELPIP test results for each ability (if test taken on or after April 1st, 2014)
5
150
225
225
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Eligibility Requirements
Legal status in
country of
residence
If you are living in Canada, you must provide proof of your legal status as a temporary worker or
visitor.
Age
You are between the ages of 21 and 55 at the time the Office of Immigration receives your
application.
Full-time,
permanent job
offer3
Full time, permanent job offer from an established employer in Nova Scotia, preferably for a
NOC 0, A or B occupation.
If you apply from outside Canada, you must provide proof that you have legal status in your
country of residence.
have compensation in the form of salary and benefits package that meets provincial
employment standards and prevailing wage rates (see
http://www.workingincanada.gc.ca/search_occupation-eng.do),
The NSNP will consider selected jobs defined as NOC C based on local labour market
requirements and conditions, and six (6) months of work with the Nova Scotia employer
supporting the application. Consideration for NOC D occupation is based on the criteria listed
under the Occupations section above.
Education and
training
You have completed a high-school diploma and have the appropriate training, skills, and/or
accreditation required for the job.
For occupations requiring licensing or certification in Nova Scotia, contact the appropriate
provincial, national and/or industry regulatory association prior to applying to verify that you meet
licensing or certification requirements.4
A permanent job has no pre-determined end date; it is a long-term job offer. Full-time employment means that the employee is expected
to work year round and, on average, at least 30 hours a week.
3
For information on regulated and non-regulated occupations in Nova Scotia and Canada, contact the Canadian Information Centre for
International Credentials at www.cicic.ca
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Criteria
Eligibility Requirements
Language ability
NOC 0, A and B
If your first language is not English or French, your written proof or explanation must clearly show
that you meet the criteria listed in the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) or Niveaux de
comptence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for at least CLB/NCLC Level 5.
Your abilities are verified by one or more of the following:
Educational transcripts or other documentation indicating English or French as the
principal language of instruction or communication.
Employment history and references with English or French as the principal language of
communication.
Internationally recognised test results to prove a CLB/NCLC Level 5.
NOC C and D
Even if your first language is English or French, you must submit internationally recognized test
results to prove a minimum CLB/NCL Level 4.
See above section Language Standards and Mandatory Testing for more information.
Work experience
At the time of submission, you must have work experience equivalent to 12 months (1,560 hours
or more) within the last 5 years, related to the position and skills for the job. Volunteer work and
unpaid internships do not count.
The evidence of work experience or transferable skills will be verified by certified education and
work experience via your rsum or curriculum vitae (CV) and supporting employment
documents.
Adaptability and
intention to settle
You can demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the Province, your genuine intention and ability to live
in Nova Scotia. Positive indicators may include employment, residence, visits, study, family
connections, community support, and business activities.
Financial and
settlement
supports
You can demonstrate that you have sufficient settlement supports and financial resources,
including transferable funds in your name or your spouses name, in order to pay your immigration
costs and travel expenses (if applicable) and to successfully establish yourself and your family in
Nova Scotia.
Federal guidelines generally recommend that immigrants arrive with a minimum of $11,000, plus
$2,000 for each dependent. This recommended amount is reduced in the case of a principal
applicant who is already living in Nova Scotia or has arranged employment. In all cases, proof of
some financial resources in your own name is required.
The Office of Immigration will not approve an application if it appears likely that your family income
(based on your job offer and any spousal income) will be below Statistics Canadas applicable
Low-Income Cut-Off at Table 3.
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/guides/5196ETOC.asp#5196E9
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Eligibility Requirements
Registration
status
Operational
status
The employers business must have been in operation in Nova Scotia, under current management, for
at least two years.
Business
Practices
Employer must have a history of good workplace and business practices, and must be compliant with
all applicable laws and regulations.
The Office of Immigration accepts applications from workers with employers in the public sector and
not-for-profit organizations with a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia. A not-for-profit organization
must be registered under the Societies Act and demonstrate financial ability and stability to support the
position on a long-term basis.
Most employers who wish to recruit and hire foreign workers for employment in Nova Scotia must
obtain a Foreign Worker Employer Registration Certificate from Labour Standards. (see
http://novascotia.ca/lae/employmentrights/FW/ForeignWorker_Employer_Registration_Information.asp)
Employers cannot make deductions from wages or salaries for business costs such as bringing a
foreign worker to Canada.
Employment agencies and similar placement firms cannot act as an employer unless they are
establishing a full-time permanent employer-employee relationship with the applicant themselves.
Deviation or violation of these obligations will result in the Office of Immigrations refusal to accept
NSNP applications by workers employed with such employers.
Employment
offer
The employer must make a full time, permanent job offer6 for a job preferably for a NOC Level O, A
or B.
The job, located in Nova Scotia, must:
have compensation in the form of salary and benefits package that meets Provincial employment
standards and prevailing wage rates (see http://www.workingincanada.gc.ca/search_occupationeng.do),
be a position which has a shortage of qualified permanent residents or Canadian citizens to fill the
position,
not contravene any existing bargaining unit agreements, labour agreements/standards or involved
in any employment disputes.
The NSNP will consider selected jobs defined as NOC C based on local labour market requirements
and conditions, and six (6) months of work with the Nova Scotia employer supporting the application.
Consideration for NOC D occupations is based on the criteria listed under the section Occupations in
this guide.
Permanent establishment has the meaning contained in the Income Tax Act, Canada.
A permanent job has no pre-determined end date; it is a long-term job offer. Full-time employment means that the employee is expected to work
year round and, on average, at least 30 hours a week.
6
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Criteria
Eligibility Requirements
Recruitment
efforts
The employer needs to satisfactorily demonstrate recruitment efforts to fill the position with a Canadian
citizen or permanent resident.
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7 You are a common-law partner either of the opposite sex or same sex if you have been living together in a conjugal relationship for at least one year
in a continuous, non-interrupted 12-month period. If you have maintained a conjugal relationship for at least one year but have been prevented from
living together or marrying, you may be considered common-law after providing evidence there was a satisfactory reason you could not live together.
In either case, you will need to provide a Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union [IMM 5409] available at
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/forms/IMM5409E.pdf.
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Job Description
Recruitment Activities
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This form must be completed by the Nova Scotia employer who is making the
permanent full-time job offer. It should be completed by the authorized signing
officer of the company that made the job offer.
The Office of Immigration reserves, at its sole discretion, the right to not accept
applications from employers who have failed to comply with their requirements
of the NSNP.
Optional. Use this form if you wish to have your application information sent to a
designated individual other than yourself or your representative.
The individual you designate will be able to obtain information on your case file,
such as the status of your application. However, he or she will not be a
representative who can conduct business on your behalf with Nova Scotia Office
of Immigration.
This form must be completed by the principal applicant and by all accompanying
family members aged 18 or older listed in the Generic Application Form for
Canada.
This form must be completed and signed by the applicant and common-law
partner, only if the latter is a co-signer on the application.
[IMM 5409]
Use this form to demonstrate and indicate your common-law relationship and
make a solemn declaration before a commissioner of oath.
A copy of this form must be completed for each child travelling to Canada.
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For the principal applicant, spouse or common-law partner, and all accompanying
dependents.
Valid regular passport. Include only copies of pages showing the passport number,
date of issue and expiry, your photo, name, date and place of birth, and any previous
visas and/or visits to Canada. In order to ensure successful immigration processing, it
is recommended that passports have an expiry date no less than two years from the
date of your Nova Scotia Nominee Program application.
If you live in a country other than your country of nationality, include a photocopy of
your visa for the country where you currently live.
Previous temporary residence permits, if applicable and available.
Correspondence from previous attempts to immigrate to Canada through provincial or
federal immigration categories. Include correspondence received from the provincial
or Canadian government associated with each previous application.
Childrens Information
You must provide a copy of any certification and training obtained by the principal
applicant.
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Language Ability
NOC 0, A and B
You must demonstrate that you have sufficient English or French language ability to be
employable and functional in Nova Scotia based on documentation of language ability
which may include:
o Mother tongue, or
o Educational transcripts/diplomas or employment references indicating English or
French as the principal language of instruction or communication, or
o Internationally recognized test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF).
NOC C and D
You must submit internationally recognized test results (IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF)
See section Language Standards and Mandatory Testing for more information.
Supporting Employment
History and Documents
Financial Information
For the principal applicant, spouse or common-law partner, and all accompanying
dependents. You may provide one or a combination of the following:
Letter from financial institutions indicating the balance and transactional history for the
last three months.
Financial institutions statements demonstrating access to transferable, liquid funds
and assets.
Investments portfolio.
Mortgage and other loans (both must include principal and interest owed).
Do NOT include real estate or personal items such as jewelry, furniture and vehicles.
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Employment Offer
Recruitment Activities
The employer must provide evidence of recruitment for the position. This evidence must
predate the applicants current offer of employment and it is required even if the applicant has
an open work permit. Satisfactory evidence can be either:
a current positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) opinion, as described below,
or
three advertisements and related information that meet the conditions described below.
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In addition, the employer must advertise in at least two other English or French-language print
or internet publications. These other advertisements may appear in newspapers, job boards, or
general employment websites such as careerbeacon.com, workopolis.com or monster.ca. The
language of publication must reflect the language requirements of the position.
All advertisements must occur in the six months prior to the date of the job offer to the
applicant. Each advertisement must be publicly available for no less than four consecutive
weeks. The employer must be able to demonstrate that the print media and websites used to
advertise the job target an audience in Canada that has the appropriate education, professional
experience, language ability and skill level required for that job.
The advertisement must be in English or French and include the:
Company operating name
Business address
Title of position
Job duties
Wage (a wage range can be used for the purposes of complying with the advertisement
requirements; however, the minimum wage in the range must be the prevailing median
wage)
Contact information: telephone number, cell phone number, email address, fax number,
or mailing address; and
Skills requirements:
o
o
Education
Work experience
provide the number of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who applied for the
position,
NOTE
Recruitment efforts are mandatory. The Office of Immigration reserves the right to request
additional information to demonstrate recruitment efforts in support of an application.
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Contact Information
Nova Scotia Office of Immigration
1741 Brunswick Street, Suite 110A
PO Box 1535
Halifax, Nova Scotia
CANADA B3J 2Y3
Tel: (902) 424-5230
Fax: (902) 424-7936
nsnp@novascotia.ca
www.novascotiaimmigration.ca
Find Nova Scotia Immigration on the following social media websites:
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