Advertisement

Advertisement

Introduction

The Nova Scotia Skilled Worker stream is designed to assist local employers in Nova Scotia by facilitating the recruitment and hiring of foreign workers and international graduates. This initiative targets individuals possessing skills currently in high demand within the province.

Canadian Immigration Pathway

Operated under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP), the Skilled Worker Stream offers a pathway for foreign nationals who possess specialized skills needed for positions unfilled by Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Unlike the Express Entry-linked streams, this pathway enables eligible candidates to apply for Canadian permanent residence independently of the federal Express Entry pool.

Occupation and Skills Focus

While the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration (NSOI) does not maintain a specific list of occupations or skill shortages under this stream, it employs the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This classification categorizes occupations into three main types: Skilled Workers, Semi-skilled Workers, and Low-skilled Workers, thereby facilitating the identification of critical skills gaps within the province.

In essence, the Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream not only addresses local labor shortages but also offers qualified individuals a viable pathway to contribute their expertise to Nova Scotia's economy and community. This initiative underscores Nova Scotia's commitment to attracting global talent while meeting the province's economic development objectives.

Categories under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program

Skilled Workers

Skilled Workers encompass individuals with experience in occupations classified under NOC levels 0, A, or B—considered highly skilled roles. Priority is given to applicants in these categories due to their specialized expertise.

Semi-Skilled Workers

Semi-skilled workers are those whose occupations fall under NOC level C. Applicants in this category must meet all eligibility criteria and have at least six months of employment with a Nova Scotia manager or employer reinforcing their permanent residence application implementation.

Low-Skilled Workers

Low-skilled workers include individuals with occupations classified under NOC level D. Eligibility requires applicants to fulfill all criteria and have six months of employment with a Nova Scotia employer backing their permanent residence application. Employers must demonstrate robust support, including contributions to immigration fees, accommodation, language training, and career development plans.

Exclusion Criteria

The Nova Scotia Office of Immigration (NSOI) does not accept applications from individuals holding federal post-graduation work permits in NOC D classified occupations.

Suitability Necessities for the Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream

Minimum Requirements for Applicants

1. Legal Status Verification

    • Applicants residing in Canada must provide proof of legal status.
    • Applicants applying from outside Canada must provide proof of authorized rank or status in their present country of residence.

2. Age Criteria

    • Applicants must be between 21 and 55 years old at the time of application.

3. Job Offer

    • Must have a full-time, permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer.
    • Preferably for NOC 0, A, or B occupations. NOC C and D occupations considered based on labor market requirements, with a requirement of six months of work with the same employer and indicators of application success.

4. Education

    • Completion of at least a high school level of education (12 years of study).

5. Skills and Training

    • Possess the necessary education, training, licensing, or certification required for the job in Canada, if applicable.

6. Work Experience

    • Have a minimum of 12 months of relevant work experience within the past five years.

7. Language Requirements

    • For NOC levels 0, A, or B: CLB level 5 in English or French.
      • Applicants whose first language is English or French meet this requirement by default.
      • If not, can submit educational transcripts, employment history, or internationally recognized test results.
    • For NOC levels C or D: CLB level 4 in English or French, even if the applicant's first language is English or French.

8. Approved Language Tests

    • Only test results from designated agencies are accepted:
      • International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - General Training
      • Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP)-General
      • Test d'Evaluation Du Français (TEF)

9. Settlement Intent and Ability

    • Demonstrate intent and ability to settle in Nova Scotia.

10. Financial Resources

    • Show sufficient settlement support and financial resources to cover immigration costs, and travel expenses (if applicable), and successfully establish oneself in the province.

These comprehensive eligibility requirements ensure that applicants for the Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream meet the criteria necessary to contribute effectively to the province's workforce and community.

Minimum Requirements for Employers Sponsoring Applicants

Establishment and Operational Criteria

1. Permanent Establishment

    • Employers must be permanently established in Nova Scotia.

2. Operational History

    • Must have operated under current management in Nova Scotia for a minimum of two years.

Job Offer Specifications

3. Job Offer Details

    • Offer a full-time, permanent job located in Nova Scotia.
    • Ensure the salary and benefits align with provincial employment standards and prevailing wage rates.

4. Occupational Requirements

    • Offer a position that addresses a shortage of qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

5. Compliance and Agreements

    • Ensure the job offer does not contravene any existing bargaining unit agreements, labour standards, or be involved in employment disputes.

Special Considerations for NOC Levels C or D

6. Labour Market Conditions

    • Job offers for occupations classified under NOC levels C or D will be assessed according to local labor market demands and conditions.

Recruitment Efforts and Compliance

7. Recruitment Evidence

    • Demonstrate recruitment efforts preceding the applicant's job offer, evidenced by:
      • A current positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA),
      • Proof of LMIA exemption, or
      • Three advertisements meeting specified conditions.

8. Workplace Practices

    • Maintain a history of good workplace and business practices.
    • Confirm agreement with all related laws and regulations.

These stringent requirements ensure that employers participating in the Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream uphold standards that support both workforce integration and regulatory compliance within the province.

The Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream Registration Formalities For An Application.

Preparation and Submission

1. Application Package Preparation

    • The principal applicant gathers and prepares an application package as per the NSNP document checklist.

2. Employer Form Submission

    • The supporting employer completes and submits the Employer form required by NSNP.

3. Submission Methods

    • Application submission can be done online or by mail. Ensuring all documents are complete, translated by certified translators, and clear is crucial for assessment.

Assessment and Review

4. Initial Assessment

    • NSOI begins with a completion check of the application. They may request interviews with the applicant or contact the employer for additional information or clarification during this phase.

5. Decision Stage

    • If approved, the applicant receives a confirmation letter from NSOI regarding their nomination.
    • If the application faces potential refusal, NSOI issues a letter of intent to refuse, allowing 10 business days for the applicant or their representative to provide supplementary information.

Nomination Benefits

6. Temporary Work Permit

    • Nominated applicants can opt to apply for a temporary work license/permit or renew a current one with NSOI's provision. The letter of support substitutes the need for an LMIA in the work permit application, enabling continued employment in Nova Scotia while awaiting a decision on Canadian permanent residency.

Permanent Residency Application

7. Permanent Resident Visa Application

    • In the six months of getting the Letter of Nomination, the applicant must submit a complete application for a Canadian permanent resident visa to IRCC. The final decision hinges on meeting ongoing eligibility criteria and passing criminality, medical, and security checks.

Arrival and Follow-Up

8. Confirmation of Permanent Residence

    • Upon receiving the Confirmation of Permanent Residence for the applicant, spouse, and dependents, the applicant must contact NSOI within 30 days of arrival in Canada.

This structured process ensures that applicants under the Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream navigate from initial application through to permanent residency with clear steps and support mechanisms in place.

Who is Ineligible to Apply under the Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream

Exclusion Criteria

1. Recent Nominees

    • Individuals who have received a nomination under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program within the past 12 months are ineligible to apply under this stream.

2. Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds

    • Applicants seeking entry under humanitarian and compassionate grounds, refugee claimants, or failed refugee claimants are not eligible.

3. Legal Status

    • Those not legally present in their current country of residence or individuals in Canada illegally, under a removal order, or prohibited from entering Canada cannot apply.

4. Status Requirements

    • Applicants without legal status must restore their status before applying.

5. Student and Graduate Categories

    • International students currently studying at Canadian post-secondary institutions and international graduates contractually obligated to return to their home country after studies sponsored by an agency or government are ineligible.

6. Federal Post-Graduation Work Permit

    • Holders of federal post-graduation work permits whose occupations fall under NOC skill Level D are not eligible.

7. Dependent Issues

    • Individuals with unresolved custody or child support disputes affecting dependents are ineligible.

8. Employment Specifics

    • Seasonal, part-time, or casual workers, individuals in commission-based sales roles, and those in the Caregiver Program in Canada cannot apply.

9. Location and Investment

    • Applicants whose jobs are not based in Nova Scotia, passive investors with limited involvement in a Nova Scotia business, and individuals basing their application on self-employment, majority shareholder status, or business startup intentions in Nova Scotia are ineligible.

These criteria outline who cannot apply under the Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream, ensuring that applications align with the program's objectives and eligibility standards.

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided about the Nova Scotia Skilled Worker Stream is intended for informational purposes only. Applicants and interested parties are advised to conduct their own research and verification based on the details provided. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and completeness, regulations and program requirements may change over time. It is recommended to refer directly to official sources or consult with authorized immigration professionals for personalized guidance.



Advertisement