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Nova Scotia Immigration: 2025 ITA Data and Priority Occupations

Nova Scotia continues to be one of Canada's most active provinces for immigration, with significant opportunities for skilled workers across multiple sectors. If you're considering making Nova Scotia your new home, understanding the latest Invitation to Apply (ITA) data and priority occupations can help you assess your chances and plan your immigration journey strategically.


2025 Invitation Statistics: A Strong Start


From January to June 2025, Nova Scotia issued 1,240 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through its provincial nomination programs, a remarkable 30% increase compared to the same period in 2024. This growth signals the province's commitment to attracting skilled talent to address labor market needs and support economic development.


As of August 6, 2025, Nova Scotia has used 1,838 of its 3,150 allocated spots for the year (combining NSNP and Atlantic Immigration Program), leaving 1,312 spaces remaining. This suggests continued opportunities for qualified candidates throughout the remainder of 2025.


Where Are the Opportunities? Top Occupation Areas


The distribution of ITAs reveals clear priorities for Nova Scotia's labor market needs:


Healthcare Leads the Way (43%)


With 520 invitations issued, healthcare professionals received the largest share of ITAs in the first half of 2025. The province is actively seeking:

  • General practitioners and family physicians (NOC 31102)

  • Specialist physicians (NOC 31100, 31101)

  • Registered nurses (NOC 32101)

  • Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates (NOC 33102)


Skilled Trades in High Demand (21%)


260 invitations went to skilled trades workers, reflecting Nova Scotia's infrastructure and construction needs. Priority occupations include:

  • Electricians

  • Welders

  • Heavy-duty mechanics

  • Construction workers (NAICS 23—a 2025 priority sector)


Information Technology Professionals (15%)


The tech sector received 180 invitations, with opportunities for:

  • Software developers

  • Network analysts

  • IT professionals across various specializations


Education and Early Childhood (11%)


130 invitations were issued to education professionals, particularly:

  • Early Childhood Educators (ECE)

  • Teaching assistants

  • Administrative assistants (NOC 13110)


Other Priority Sectors (10%)


The remaining 150 invitations were distributed across hospitality, logistics, retail, and other essential services, including:

  • Retail managers (NOC 60020)

  • Food and beverage servers (NOC 65200)

  • Personal support workers (NOC 44101)

  • Truck drivers and logistics coordinators

  • Light duty cleaners (NOC 65310)


Understanding the Queue: EOIs Awaiting Processing


As of August 6, 2025, 9,774 Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are waiting for processing across all Nova Scotia immigration streams. Here's the breakdown:


  • NSNP Skilled Worker: 3,588 EOIs

  • Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): 2,633 EOIs

  • NSNP Experience: Express Entry: 1,734 EOIs

  • NSNP Occupations in Demand: 1,267 EOIs

  • NSNP Critical Construction Worker: 434 EOIs

  • NSNP International Graduates in Demand: 103 EOIs


The high volume of waiting applications underscores the competitive nature of Nova Scotia's immigration programs, making it essential to ensure your profile is complete, accurate, and compelling.


2025 Priority Focus: Who Gets Selected First?

In July 2025, Nova Scotia announced specific priorities that will guide selection for the remainder of the year:


Highest Priority Groups


  1. Foreign nationals already in Nova Scotia with work permits expiring in 2025

  2. Healthcare and social assistance workers (NAICS 62)

  3. Construction workers (NAICS 23)


Priority for Candidates Outside Nova Scotia


If you're applying from outside the province, your best chances lie in:

  • Healthcare occupations

  • Social assistance roles

  • Construction trades

This strategic focus reflects Nova Scotia's immediate labor market needs and commitment to retaining temporary workers who have already integrated into the community.


What This Means for Your Immigration Journey

If You're in Healthcare or Construction


Your timing couldn't be better. With nearly half of all ITAs going to healthcare professionals and construction workers receiving priority status, these sectors offer the strongest pathways to Nova Scotia permanent residency in 2025.


If You're Already in Nova Scotia


If you're currently working in Nova Scotia on a work permit that expires in 2025, you're in a priority position. Take action now to submit your EOI and ensure all documentation is ready.


If You're in Other Occupations


While healthcare and construction dominate, opportunities still exist in IT, education, skilled trades, hospitality, and logistics. Focus on strengthening your profile with relevant work experience, language test scores, and educational credentials.


Next Steps: How to Position Yourself for Success


  1. Assess Your Eligibility: Review the preferred NOC codes and determine which stream best matches your qualifications.

  2. Strengthen Your Profile: Maximize your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score if applying through Express Entry streams, or ensure you meet specific stream requirements.

  3. Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents, including educational credential assessments, language test results, and work experience letters.

  4. Consider Your Timeline: With 1,312 spaces remaining and nearly 10,000 EOIs in the queue, competition remains high. Submit a complete, compelling application as soon as possible.

  5. Seek Professional Guidance: Immigration regulations are complex and constantly evolving. Working with a Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) can help you navigate the process efficiently and avoid costly mistakes.


The Bottom Line


Nova Scotia's 30% increase in ITAs demonstrates the province's growing need for skilled workers and its commitment to welcoming newcomers. Whether you're a healthcare professional, construction worker, IT specialist, or skilled tradesperson, understanding these priorities and positioning yourself strategically can significantly improve your chances of receiving an invitation.

The opportunities are real, but so is the competition. With the right preparation, documentation, and guidance, you can turn your dream of living and working in Nova Scotia into reality.


Ready to explore your immigration options to Nova Scotia? Understanding your eligibility and creating a strong application strategy is the first step toward success. Book a consultation to discuss your unique situation and develop a personalized immigration plan.


 
 
 

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