Newfoundland and Labrador Boosts Immigration with Third Round of Invitations – What It Means for You

In a strategic move to address provincial labour market needs, Newfoundland and Labrador has issued a new wave of immigration invitations under its Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). As of May 29, 2025, this marks the third round of selections since the province launched its Expression of Interest (EOI) system in February this year.

This blog covers key highlights, the province’s immigration targets, how to apply, and what these changes mean for international candidates looking to move to Canada.

Key Highlights of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Latest Invitation Round

On May 29, 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador invited 405 skilled workers across both the NLPNP and AIP streams:

This marks an increase from earlier rounds:

• May 8, 2025: 328 candidates

• April 3, 2025: 256 candidates

Total Invitations in 2025 (to date):

• NLPNP: 838

• AIP: 151

✅ These numbers indicate the province’s aggressive push to attract global talent despite national cuts to immigration quotas.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide to Newfoundland’s Immigration Accelerator

To be considered for immigration to Newfoundland and Labrador:

1. Submit an EOI (Expression of Interest) via the Immigration Accelerator portal.

2. EOIs stay valid for 12 months from the date of submission.

3. If selected, applicants will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

4. NLPNP applicants then submit a full application; AIP applicants rely on their employer to submit the application.

5. Foreign applicants outside Canada must secure an “invite code” from their employer. Those already in Canada are exempt from this requirement.

6. Once invited, candidates have 60 days to submit their complete application.

Pro Tip: Ensure your employer is designated under AIP before starting the process. Employers in Newfoundland actively participate in hiring foreign workers for in-demand roles in healthcare, trades, and IT.

Real-Time Use Case: Who Can Benefit?

Case Study 1: IT Professional from India
Ravi, a software engineer with 5 years of experience, submitted an EOI in March 2025. On May 29, he received an ITA through NLPNP. His job offer from a St. John's tech startup helped him bypass the invite code requirement. He is now preparing documents for submission under the 60-day deadline.

Case Study 2: Filipino Nurse Working in UAE
Anna, a registered nurse, was offered a job by a healthcare facility in Corner Brook. She received an invite code and an AIP invitation in this round. Since she is overseas, her employer submitted her AIP application.

These stories demonstrate how skilled foreign professionals can leverage Newfoundland’s evolving immigration pathways to secure permanent residence in Canada.

Why Is Newfoundland Issuing More Invitations in 2025?

Following a drastic 50% reduction in PNP allocations by the federal government earlier this year, Newfoundland negotiated for 1,000 additional slots, bringing their total allocation to 2,525 for 2025.

The goal: Attract high-demand professionals to support sectors like:

• Healthcare

• Skilled Trades

• Technology

• Social Services

This expanded allocation allows the province to invite more foreign workers and respond to the unique needs of its economy.

Employer’s Role in AIP: What You Need to Know

Under the Atlantic Immigration Program, the employer plays a crucial role:

• Must be designated under AIP

• Provides the invite code (if the applicant is outside Canada)

• Submits the application on behalf of the candidate

This employer-driven model ensures that candidates immigrating under AIP are already matched with verified job offers, enhancing integration and retention.

Broader Impact: Healthcare and Economic Growth

Newfoundland and Labrador’s approach aligns with Canada’s broader focus on healthcare workforce recruitment. For instance:

• In 2024, internationally trained physician Dr. Ali Abdullah began practicing in PEI through a McMaster University fellowship.

• Similar initiatives are expanding across provinces to address doctor shortages and boost public health systems.

For healthcare workers like Dr. Abdullah, these new immigration rounds combined with targeted programs offer fast-tracked pathways to settle and work in Canada.

Final Thoughts: Is This Your Immigration Window?

With over 400 invitations in the latest round, Newfoundland and Labrador is clearly open for immigration business. Whether you're an IT specialist, a tradesperson, or a healthcare professional, now is the time to act.

✅ Submit your EOI early
✅ Secure a job offer
✅ Stay informed on your application status
✅ Be ready with documents when you receive your ITA