Nova Scotia Immigration
International Graduates in Demand
Step-by-step eligibility, NOC codes, language scores, required documents and online application process for Nova Scotia’s International Graduates in Demand (IGD) stream
Nova Scotia’s International Graduates in Demand (IGD) stream lets recent graduates who trained in Nova Scotia and now hold permanent, full-time job offers in high-shortage health and early-childhood roles fast-track to provincial nomination - an essential step toward Canadian permanent residence.
Below you’ll find the latest 2025 requirements, approved NOC codes, language and funding rules, plus every form you need to file a flawless online application.
1. Who the IGD Stream Targets
- NOC 32102 – Paramedical occupations (e.g., Primary Care Paramedic, Advanced Care Paramedic)
- NOC 32124 – Pharmacy technicians
- NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies & patient service associates
- NOC 42202 – Early childhood educators & assistants
2. Minimum Eligibility Checklist
Requirement | Details | Proof |
|---|---|---|
Job offer | Full-time, permanent, from a Nova Scotia employer in one of the four NOCs above | Signed offer letter & NSNP 200 Employer Form |
Age | 19 – 55 years | Passport/ID |
Education | Completed qualifying program at a Nova Scotia DLI within past 3 years | Final transcript & diploma/certificate |
Credential type | Diploma for NOC 32102 & 32124; Certificate/Diploma/Degree for NOC 33102; Diploma/Degree for NOC 42202 | Graduation documents |
Licensing | Must hold or be eligible for Nova Scotia licensure where regulated (e.g., paramedics, pharmacy techs, ECEs) | Regulatory-body proof |
Language | CLB 5 (IELTS GT 5 / CELPIP 5 / PTE Core 46 / TEF B2) in English or French | Official test ≤ 2 yrs old |
Settlement funds | Demonstrate ability to settle (GIC, bank statements or ongoing NS income) | Proof of funds table |
3. Step-by-Step Online Application
1. Gather documents - passport, diploma, transcript, language test, job offer, NSNP 200 Employer Information Form, proof of funds.
2. Create an account on Nova Scotia Immigration’s online portal and start an IGD application.
3. Upload PDFs (max 5 MB each) & hit Submit before the portal’s timer expires.
4. Provincial assessment - average 3-6 months. You may get a request for more information or an interview.
5. Receive Nomination Certificate (valid 6 months) and letter with instructions for IRCC permanent-residence (PR) filing.
6. Apply for PR via IRCC’s online portal; upload nomination under “Nova Scotia Nominee Program.” Processing averages 8-12 months.
4. Required NSNP Forms & Policies
- Application Guide – detailed field-by-field instructions.
- Employer Information Form (NSNP 200) - completed & signed by your HR manager.
- NSNP 50 - Use of a Representative (optional).
- NSNP 60 - Authority to Release Personal Information (designates a friend/family contact).
- Program Integrity Policy - outlines fraud & misrepresentation penalties.
5. Fees & Processing Times
Nova Scotia charges no provincial fee for IGD submissions, but IRCC will collect the standard PR fee when you file federally. Typical provincial processing takes 3–6 months; federal PR adds 8–12 months.
6. Post-Nomination Essentials
- Stay employed in the approved NOC until you receive PR.
- Maintain settlement funds & valid work permit (if applicable).
- Update Nova Scotia if you change address, phone or email during processing.
Ready to launch your career in Nova Scotia’s high-demand health or early-learning sectors? Gather your job offer, graduation papers and CLB 5 language score, then submit your IGD application today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I studied outside Nova Scotia?
No. You must graduate from an eligible Designated Learning Institution within Nova Scotia.
Is co-op work counted as the required one year of experience?
Yes, as long as it is paid and related to the IGD NOC. Keep pay stubs as proof.
Do I need an LMIA with my job offer?
No LMIA is required for IGD nominations, but wages must meet the provincial median for your occupation.
Can I switch employers after nomination?
Generally no. A significant job change before PR may void your nomination.
What if my language test expires while IRCC is processing my PR?
Language results must be valid at provincial submission; they can expire afterward without affecting PR processing.