Nova Scotia Immigration
Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot
Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot – Discover pharmacist-focused eligibility, Letter-of-Interest tactics, CLB hacks, and proven steps to land a Nova Scotia job offer and permanent residency.
Nova Scotia’s Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot zeroes in on two critical roles - pharmacists and pharmacy technicians - to fix province-wide medication-service gaps.
If you received a coveted Letter of Interest (LOI) on August 28 2024, this playbook shows you how to turn that invite into a job offer and, ultimately, Atlantic Canadian permanent residency.
1. Letter of Interest (LOI) – August 28 2024 Snapshot
Only Express Entry profiles that captured an LOI on August 28 2024 can join this draw. If you weren’t selected, monitor future healthcare rounds or explore other NSNP streams.
1.2 Express Entry vs. Non-Express Entry Path
Although you must have an Express Entry profile to receive the LOI, the pilot funnels nominations through a non-Express Entry stream - meaning no automatic 600-point CRS bonus.
2. Occupations in Focus
NOC Code | Role | Typical Duties |
|---|---|---|
31120 | Pharmacists | Dispense medication, perform medication reviews, supervise techs |
32124 | Pharmacy Technicians | Prepare prescriptions, manage inventory, assist with insurance billing |
3. Quick-Fire Eligibility Checklist
Requirement | Skilled Worker Stream | Atlantic Immigration Program |
|---|---|---|
Job Offer | Conditional, full-time | From designated employer |
Education | High-school diploma + ECA | Same |
Language | CLB 5 (EN/FR) | CLB 5 |
Work Experience | 1 year related | 1 year related |
Settlement Funds | IRCC table | Same |
Tip: Both pathways demand intent to settle permanently in Nova Scotia.
4. Step-by-Step Application Timeline
4.1 Complete the Online Survey
Use the official Lever link corresponding to your occupation to express interest and upload your résumé.
4.2 Secure the Conditional Job Offer
Employers review survey data, interview shortlisted candidates, and issue a conditional offer contingent on licensure and immigration approval.
4.3 File Your NSNP or AIP Application
Attach your job offer, language test, ECA, proof of funds, and passport copies. Provincial review averages 3–5 weeks. Nomination follows; federal PR takes 8–10 months outside Express Entry.
5. Proof-of-Funds & CLB 5 Language Requirements
Family Size | Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
1 | 14,690 |
2 | 18,288 |
3 | 22,483 |
CLB 5 equals IELTS General 5.0 / CELPIP 5 across all skills—reachable with focused prep.
6. Licensing Pathway with NS College of Pharmacists
International pharmacy graduates must:
- Register on Pharmacists’ Gateway Canada
- Pass the PEBC evaluating exam
- Complete a structured practical training period in Nova Scotia
- Show professional liability insurance
Total licensure fees run about CAD 8 675 (2025).
Technicians follow a similar, shorter path with the PEBC Qualifying Exam (Part I & II).
10. Conclusion
The Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot is Nova Scotia’s focused answer to pharmacy workforce gaps. If you hold the August 28 2024 LOI, act fast: complete the survey, land your conditional job offer, and submit a flawless NSNP or Atlantic Immigration Program package.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my Express Entry profile if I take this path?
No - your profile stays active until it expires or you become a PR.
Can I bring my spouse and children?
Yes; include them in your NSNP/AIP application.
Do I still need police certificates?
Yes - standard IRCC security checks apply.
Is the survey an immigration application?
No - it’s a pre-screening employment tool.
What if my language test is older than two years?
Retake it; IRCC only accepts tests taken within 24 months.
How soon can I apply for citizenship?
After three years of physical presence as a PR within five years.