Nova Scotia Immigration
Occupations in Demand
Step-by-step eligibility checklist, NOC codes, and how to file a strong online application for Nova Scotia’s Occupations in Demand stream (NSNP).
Nova Scotia’s Occupations in Demand (OID) stream fast-tracks permanent residence for select semi-skilled jobs that local employers struggle to fill. As of 17 April 2024 the province has paused new OID applications in the Accommodation & Food Services sector while it works through a large inventory, but trucking, construction, health-care aides and cleaning roles remain open.
Below you’ll find all current eligibility rules, required documents, wage criteria and pro tips for a successful submission.
1. Program Snapshot
--- | Requirement | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
Target NOCs | 33102 (Nurse Aides), 65310 (Light-Duty Cleaners), 73300 (Transport Truck Drivers), 73400 (Heavy Equipment Operators), 75110 (Construction Trades Helpers) | Subject to change based on NS labour-market data |
Job offer | Full-time, permanent | Employer must be in NS & pay competitive wages. |
Work Experience | ≥ 1 year related | In the same NOC; can be inside or outside Canada. |
Age | 21-55 years | Calculated at time of application. |
Education | High-school diploma | Foreign credentials should be equivalent to Canadian secondary level |
Language | Minimum CLB 4 (any official test) | Required even if English/French is first language |
Settlement funds | Proof of savings or current earnings | Must meet IRCC settlement table for family size |
2. Detailed Eligibility Checklist
2.1 Valid Job Offer
- Must be full-time & permanent (≥ 30 hrs/week).
- Occupation must be one of the five NOC codes listed above.
- Wage must align with the provincial median for the occupation and region (check Job Bank wages)
2.2 Qualified Work Experience
- 12 months (1,560 hrs) paid, related experience in the past 5 years.
- Experience can be inside or outside Canada; self-employment counts only if verifiable.
- TEER 4-5 workers switching employers in NS require at least 6 months with that employer before applying.
2.3 Language Ability
- Minimum CLB 4 across listening, speaking, reading, writing.
- Accepted tests: IELTS (GT), CELPIP (G), PTE Core, TEF, TCF.
- Upload the entire test report - it must be < 2 years old on the day you apply.
2.4 Education
- Canadian high-school or foreign equivalent (ECA recommended for non-Canadian diplomas).
- Upload diploma/certificate + transcripts; include ECA report number if applicable.
2.5 Settlement Funds
- Show recent bank statements, GICs or pay stubs that equal or exceed IRCC’s proof-of-funds table for your family size.
- Funds must be liquid and in the principal applicant or spouse’s name.
3. Step-by-Step Application Process
3.1 Gather Employer Documents
1. NSNP 200 - Employer Information Form signed by the company.
2. Written offer (on letterhead) detailing NOC code, duties, wage, hours and start date.
3. Recent recruiting records (ads, job-bank postings) if requested.
3.2 Complete Your Online NSOI Profile
- Create an account and select Occupations in Demand stream.
- Upload PDFs of every required document (max 5 MB each).
- Pay no application fee.
3.3 Post-submission
- You receive an acknowledgement e-mail with NSNP file number.
- Processing times vary (3-6 months typical).
- Respond quickly to any “information request” emails; missing docs can lead to refusal.
3.4 After Provincial Approval
- You’ll receive a Nomination Certificate (valid 6 months).
- Within 60 days, submit your PR application to IRCC (online Express Entry PNP pathway or paper-based).
- Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit if needed once IRCC confirms reception of your PR file.
4. Required Document Pack - Quick List
Document | Notes |
|---|---|
Passport bio-page (all dependants) | Combine into one PDF |
Job offer letter | Must be signed & dated by employer |
NSNP 200 form | Employer completes & signs |
Resume / CV | Chronological, all jobs & education |
Reference letters | On company letterhead, list duties, wage & hours |
Education proof | Diplomas + transcripts (+ ECA) |
Language test results | IELTS/CELPIP/PTE/TEF/TCF |
Proof of funds | 6-month bank history or pay stubs |
Marital & children docs | Marriage/birth certificates, if applicable |
Signed Program Integrity & Use-of-Representative forms (if relevant) | Download from NSOI |
5. Employer Wage & Compliance Tips
Nova Scotia requires that all OID positions be paid at or above the Job Bank’s median wage for the region and follow provincial employment standards. Employers may undergo a random on-site audit by Labour, Skills and Immigration to confirm:
- Worker performing listed duties.
- Payroll records match the offer.
- Settlement supports (orientation, language access) provided.
6. Pause on Accommodation & Food Services
Because of a backlog, Nova Scotia is not accepting OID or Skilled Worker applications in NOC codes under the Accommodation & Food Services sector as of 17 April 2024. The pause will be lifted once current files are cleared
Additional Resources
- NSNP Application Guide (OID stream) - step-by-step instructions & document checklist.
- Common NS Immigration Policies - program integrity & fraud prevention rules.
- Job Bank Wage Tool - verify median wages by occupation and region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I switch employers after receiving my nomination?
You should remain with your nominating employer until you obtain PR; changing jobs could jeopardize your nomination.
Do Cleaners (NOC 65310) still qualify during the sector pause?
Yes - cleaner roles outside the Accommodation & Food Services sector (e.g., in health-care facilities) remain eligible.
Is proof-of-funds waived if I’m already working in Nova Scotia?
No. Even inland applicants must upload recent financial statements showing access to settlement funds.
How long will the current pause last?
The province hasn’t given a timeline.
What happens if my language test expires while my application is in process?
The test only needs to be valid on the day you submit to NSOI. Keep a copy handy; IRCC may request updated results if the test expires before federal assessment.