New Brunswick has recently conducted two draws from March 30 to April 1, 2026, issuing a total of 143 invitations to candidates in the provincial immigration system. These draws were aimed at skilled workers in various sectors, specifically healthcare, information technology (IT), transportation, and manufacturing. The invitations were distributed through the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).
These selection rounds mark the first time in over a month that New Brunswick has issued invitations, as the previous round took place from March 3 to 6, where 622 invitations were issued across multiple streams.
Draw Results
During this selection round, invitations were allocated as follows:
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- NB Express Entry Stream: 25 invitations targeting candidates in healthcare and IT.
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- Atlantic Immigration Program: 118 invitations for roles in transportation and manufacturing.
To be eligible for the Express Entry stream draw, candidates were required to submit their Expression of Interest (EOI) by March 29, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Atlantic Standard Time (AST). For the AIP draw, endorsement applications needed to be submitted by March 31, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. AST.
New Brunswick Express Entry Stream
The New Brunswick Express Entry Stream is part of the federal Express Entry system, catering to skilled foreign nationals with an active Express Entry profile. This stream particularly focuses on candidates who are already residing and working full-time in New Brunswick in skilled, non-seasonal positions.
Candidates who receive a provincial nomination through this stream are awarded 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, which significantly increases their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence through the federal Express Entry system.
Atlantic Immigration Program
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is an employer-driven initiative that assists employers in Atlantic Canada in hiring skilled foreign workers and international graduates for positions that cannot be filled locally. Unlike the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP), candidates do not need a CRS score to qualify for the AIP. Instead, they must have a valid job offer from a New Brunswick employer designated by Immigration New Brunswick.
As of February 2026, New Brunswick transitioned the AIP to a candidate pool system, where endorsement applications are selected through scheduled draws based on provincial labor market priorities. Applications remain valid in the pool for 365 days from the date of submission. Once endorsed, candidates can apply directly to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence.
FAQ
What is the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream?
The New Brunswick Express Entry Stream is designed for skilled workers who have an active profile in the federal Express Entry system and are currently living and working in New Brunswick.
How many invitations were issued in the latest draws?
A total of 143 invitations were issued in the recent draws, with 25 through the NB Express Entry Stream and 118 through the AIP.
What is the Atlantic Immigration Program?
The AIP is a program that allows employers in Atlantic Canada to hire skilled foreign workers and international graduates for jobs that cannot be filled locally, without requiring a CRS score.
What are the eligibility requirements for the Express Entry stream?
To qualify for the Express Entry stream, candidates must have submitted their Expression of Interest (EOI) and be currently employed in a skilled position in New Brunswick.
How does the endorsement process work for the AIP?
Under the AIP, candidates submit endorsement applications that are selected through scheduled draws based on labor market needs. Endorsements are valid for 365 days.
Reality Check
While the recent draws in New Brunswick provide opportunities for skilled workers, it is essential to understand the limitations and requirements of each program. Candidates should verify their eligibility and stay updated with the latest information from the official IRCC page or the New Brunswick immigration page. Immigration pathways can change, and candidates should not rely solely on this information without confirming through official channels.
