Nova Scotia Launches EOI System for Immigration Streams

Nova Scotia Embraces Expression of Interest System for Streamlined Immigration

Nova Scotia is making significant strides in its immigration process by adopting an Expression of Interest (EOI) system. This new approach will be implemented across all streams of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) as well as designations and endorsements under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). The transition aims to streamline and enhance the fairness and predictability of the immigration process for both applicants and employers.

Why the Shift to an EOI System?

The demand to immigrate to Nova Scotia has consistently exceeded the available spots, a situation constrained by yearly quotas set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). By introducing the EOI system, Nova Scotia can more effectively:

• Select candidates who meet current labor market demands.
• Quickly adapt to economic changes.
• Foster long-term growth in local communities.

This strategic pivot aligns Nova Scotia with other Canadian provinces that have successfully adopted the EOI model.

Benefits of the EOI System

Nova Scotia’s new system offers several advantages:

• Prioritizes applicants in sectors with critical needs, such as healthcare, construction, STEM, and manufacturing.
• Provides clear expectations and reduces confusion for both candidates and employers.

How the EOI Process Works

Step 1: Submission
Applicants submit their full application, which is then placed into the EOI pool. This applies to candidates under NSNP and employers under AIP.

Step 2: Selection
Periodically, Nova Scotia will conduct draws to select EOIs from the pool. Selection criteria include:

• Alignment with provincial labor priorities.
• Availability within the annual quota.
• Total EOIs in the pool.
• Program integrity checks.

Outcome for Applicants

• If Selected: Applicants receive direct notification from the government. Selection indicates alignment with current priorities but does not guarantee approval.
• If Not Selected: EOIs remain in the pool. Lack of communication means the application is still pending.

Existing Applications Transition

All existing applications have been automatically converted to EOIs. This means having an application on file or meeting eligibility criteria does not ensure processing—only selected EOIs will advance.

Staying Updated

Applicants selected from the pool will be contacted directly by Nova Scotia. Those not selected should keep an eye on the province’s website for updates on future draws.

Nova Scotia’s shift to an EOI system marks a significant step in refining its immigration process, ensuring a more strategic and responsive approach to meet its economic and community goals. As immigration processes evolve, this system promises to bring clarity and efficiency to prospective immigrants and employers alike.