Nova Scotia Nominee Program

Skilled Worker
Application
Guide
Nova Scotia Nominee Program
Skilled Worker Stream
Application Guide

Contents

Introduction ............................................................................................................................................................ 2

When Not to Apply ................................................................................................................................................. 4

Criteria and Requirements for the Principal Applicant ............................................................................................ 7

Criteria and Requirements for the Employer .......................................................................................................... 9

Application and Assessment Process .................................................................................................................. 12

Appendix 1 – Forms and Supporting Documents Checklist ................................................................................. 16

Appendix 2 – Forms and Supporting Documents Reference Sheet ..................................................................... 18

Contact Information .............................................................................................................................................. 21

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Introduction

This guide explains how you can apply to the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) through the Skilled
Worker stream to be nominated for permanent residence. The NSNP is an immigration recruitment and
selection program that allows the Government of Nova Scotia to nominate to the Canadian government
individuals who can meet the provincial labour market and economic needs and who intend to establish
themselves in Nova Scotia. Nominees, along with their spouse and dependents, approved under this program
may become permanent residents of Canada following approval by the Canadian government. This stream is
part of an economic immigration program, and is not intended to be used for family reunification, protected
persons, or humanitarian or compassionate reasons.

The NSNP Skilled Worker stream assists employers in hiring workers whose skills are in limited supply in the
province. The stream helps employers recruit and/or retain foreign workers with the required skills for positions
that they have been unable to fill with a permanent resident or Canadian citizen.

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program is only one means of applying for permanent resident status in Canada.
Applicants are encouraged to explore alternatives at the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website
(http://www.cic.gc.ca/).

Required Levels of Approval

Applications under the Skilled Worker stream require two levels of approval before permanent resident status
can be obtained.

Level 1: Application to the Nova Scotia Nominee Program Skilled Worker stream
If you meet all the eligibility criteria, you are eligible to apply to the NSNP by submitting a complete application
package. The processing time for a complete application eligible for consideration can take three months or
more depending on the time required for the verification of documents included in the application and on the
volume of applications received. Nomination under the NSNP is at the sole discretion of the Nova Scotia Office
of Immigration.

Level 2: Application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for a permanent resident visa
If you are nominated by the Province of Nova Scotia, you may then apply to the Government of Canada for a
permanent resident visa, through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), as a Nova Scotia
Provincial Nominee. In this case, you will send your application to the IRCC Centralized Intake Office in Sydney,
Nova Scotia, Canada.
In some cases, you may be asked to go for an interview. You, your spouse and dependents must meet statutory
requirements for medical, security and criminal admissibility. IRCC has the final authority to issue a permanent
resident visa.
There is no guarantee that IRCC will approve your permanent resident application even if you are nominated by
Nova Scotia.

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Fees

There is no provincial application fee under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). You must, however,
pay all the required Government of Canada immigration fees when you submit your file to Immigration,
Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Disclaimer

The NSNP and its streams are dependent upon application volumes and labour market needs. NSNP and
stream criteria may change without notice. The NSNP reserves the right to close or suspend application intake
for any NSNP stream at any time. Regardless of when an application was submitted, the NSNP may decline to
consider applications in closed or suspended streams. If application criteria or forms are updated or if there are
changes to the NSNP or its streams including closure or suspension of a stream, you will find the most current
information at http://novascotiaimmigration.com/immigrate/. Applications may be assessed with the most current
criteria irrespective of the date of submission of an application. By submitting an application to the NSNP, you
agree and acknowledge that the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration is not obligated to assess or process any
application submitted. Applications to the NSNP are treated as an expression of interest, and may be processed
at the NSNP’s discretion, in a manner that will best support the goals of the NSNP. This can be based on
application volumes, quality of the application, labour market information, occupational supply and demand
forecasting, and/or any other factors as determined by the NSNP. By submitting an application to the NSNP you
agree and acknowledge the decision whether to assess or process any application, and the outcome of that
assessment or processing is at the NSNP’s sole discretion. You also agree and acknowledge that meeting
NSNP basic eligibility requirements does not guarantee nomination or that your application will be assessed or
processed. You also agree and acknowledge that a nomination from the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration does
not guarantee that a permanent resident visa will be issued, and that the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration is
not responsible for any processes or decisions of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Misrepresentation: If it is found that any person included in or associated with the application has
misrepresented or intentionally omitted material information in the course of applying to the NSNP that is
relevant to the application or the decision to nominate, the applicant will be refused for misrepresentation,
regardless of their ability to meet any or all of the eligibility requirements. Any person refused by the NSOI for
misrepresentation is unable to submit an expression of interest or apply to the NSNP for a period of five years.

Withdrawal of Application: Other than in the case of suspected or actual misrepresentation, an applicant may
withdraw their application at any time prior to nomination without penalty.

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When Not to Apply

Do Not Apply for the Skilled Worker Stream if you are:

• an individual who has received a nomination under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program dated
within the last 12 months;

• an applicant under humanitarian and compassionate grounds, a refugee claimant or a failed refugee
claimant;

• not legally present in your current country of residence;

• in Canada illegally, under a removal order, or are prohibited from entering or being in Canada;

• an individual who does not have status; you are not eligible to apply until your status has been restored;

• an international student who is currently studying at a Canadian post-secondary institution;

• an international graduate who has studied in Canada, whose studies have been sponsored by an
agency or government and who is contractually obligated to return to their country of origin;

• on a federal post-graduation work permit whose occupation falls under NOC skill Level D;

• the spouse of an international student at a Canadian post-secondary institution who is not in his/her last
academic year of studies;
• an individual with unresolved custody or child support disputes affecting any dependent;

• a seasonal, part-time or casual worker;

• in a sales position that is based solely on commission for compensation;

• an individual in Canada who is in the Caregiver Program;

• an individual whose job is not based in Nova Scotia;

• a passive investor (individuals who intend to invest in a Nova Scotia business with very limited or no
involvement in the day-to-day management of the business);

• basing your application on a job offer where you are self-employed in Nova Scotia;

• basing your application on a job offer where you are a majority shareholder in a Nova Scotia business;

• basing your application on a job offer where you are intending to start a business and/or becoming self-
employed in Nova Scotia.

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Job Offer

You must have a full-time, permanent1 job offer from a Nova Scotia employer before submitting an
application to the NSNP Skilled Worker stream. For greater certainty, your application must not be based on a
job offer where you are self-employed in Nova Scotia, on being the majority shareholder in a Nova Scotia
business, or on the intention to start a business and/or become self-employed in Nova Scotia. Provincial
priorities may change as skills shortages are met by permanent residents or Canadian citizens. Generally, the
NSNP will not support nominations in occupations where labour market information shows that there are
individuals in Nova Scotia with the necessary skills and that there is no indication of a skills shortage. The Nova
Scotia Office of Immigration, however, will consider local labour market conditions.

Occupations

The Office of Immigration does not have a specific occupation or skills shortage list for the Skilled Worker
Stream. The Office of Immigration uses the National Occupational Classification (NOC) to classify jobs
according to duties, formal qualifications and experience specified by the employer. The NOC helps determine
whether a job meets the skill levels established for skilled and semi-skilled worker occupations, and whether the
candidate’s qualifications and experience match the requirements of the job. The NOC matrix provides an
overview of the entire occupational classification structure based on skill levels and skill types. For more details
on NOC skill levels and types, visit http://noc.esdc.gc.ca/English/home.aspx.

The Office of Immigration differentiates between skilled workers, semi-skilled and low-skilled workers.

Skilled workers are defined as individuals with an occupation within NOC 0, A or B. Priority will be awarded to
these higher skilled occupations.

Semi-skilled workers have occupations that fall under NOC C. The Office of Immigration may consider
applications based on local labour market requirements and conditions. At the time of submission, applicants
must have at least six (6) months of work experience with the Nova Scotia employer supporting the application. 2

Low-skilled workers have occupations that fall under NOC D. The Office of Immigration may consider
applications from individuals in these occupations only if all other eligibility criteria are met. At the time of
submission, the principal applicant must have worked for at least six (6) months with the Nova Scotia employer
supporting the application. There must be indicators of success in the application and strong employer support
such as contribution to the immigration fees, accommodation/housing, language training, and career training
plans.

The Office of Immigration will not consider applications from individuals on a federal post-graduation work permit
whose occupations fall under NOC D.

The Office of Immigration reserves the right to consider only certain types of jobs and occupations for
nomination. This decision will depend on the current economic situation of the Nova Scotia labour market needs.
1A permanent job has no pre-determined end date; it is a long-term job offer. Full-time employment means that the employee is expected to work
year round and, on average, at least 30 hours a week.
2In most cases, employers need to obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Service Canada to hire a temporary foreign
worker in Canada.

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Language Standards and Mandatory Testing

All applicants in NOC C and D occupations must submit official language test results with their application to the
Nova Scotia Nominee Program. They must achieve a minimum standard of Canadian Language Benchmark
(CLB) 4 across all four categories: listening, reading, writing and speaking.

The Nova Scotia Office of Immigration will only consider results from designated testing agencies. The
acceptable tests are:
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) General Training
http://www.ielts.org/test_takers_information.aspx
• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP-General)
http://www.celpiptest.ca/for-test-takers/registration-information
• Test d’évaluation de français (TEF)
http://www.francais.ccip.fr/etudiant

No other evidence of language proficiency will be accepted Language test results must not be older than two
years upon receipt at the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration and must be renewed if they would expire at any
time before your application to IRCC is approved for processing.

CLB Level Listening Reading Writing Speaking

4 IELTS test results for each ability
NOC
4.5 3.5 4 4
C and D
(mandatory language CELPIP test results for each ability (if test taken before April 1 st, 2014)
testing)
2H 2H 2H 2H

CELPIP test results for each ability (if test taken on or after April 1 st, 2014)

4 4 4 4

TEF test results for each ability

145 121 181 181

5 IELTS test results for each ability

5 4 5 5
NOC CELPIP test results for each ability (if test taken before April 1 st, 2014)
0, A & B
3L 3L 3L 3L
(non-mandatory
language testing) CELPIP test results for each ability (if test taken on or after April 1 st, 2014)

5 5 5 5

TEF test results for each ability

180 150 225 225

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Criteria and Requirements for the Principal Applicant

The spouse, common-law partner, and children, if applicable, can be included as accompanying dependents.

Criteria Eligibility Requirements

Legal status in If you are living in Canada, you must provide proof of your legal status as a temporary worker or
country of visitor.
residence
If you apply from outside Canada, you must provide proof that you have legal status in your
country of residence.
If you have lost your status, you are not eligible to apply until your status has been restored.

Age You are between the ages of 21 and 55 at the time the Office of Immigration receives your
application.

Full-time, Full time, permanent job offer from an established employer in Nova Scotia, preferably for a
permanent job NOC 0, A or B occupation.
offer3
The job, located in Nova Scotia, must:
▪ have compensation in the form of salary that meets provincial employment standards and the
provincial wage range. (see www.jobbank.gc.ca/wage-outlook_search-
eng.do?reportOption=wage),
▪ be a position which has a shortage of qualified permanent residents or Canadian citizens to
fill the position, and
▪ not contravene any existing bargaining unit agreements, labour agreements/standards or be
in any employment disputes.
The NSNP will consider selected jobs defined as NOC C based on local labour market
requirements and conditions, and six (6) months of work with the Nova Scotia employer
supporting the application. Consideration for NOC D occupation is based on the criteria listed
under the “Occupations” section above.

Education and You have completed a high-school diploma and have the appropriate training, skills, and/or
training accreditation required for the job.
For occupations requiring licensing or certification in Nova Scotia, contact the appropriate
provincial, national and/or industry regulatory association prior to applying to verify that you meet
licensing or certification requirements.4

3 A permanent job has no pre-determined end date; it is a long-term job offer. Full-time employment means that the employee is expected
to work year round and, on average, at least 30 hours a week.
4For information on regulated and non-regulated occupations in Nova Scotia, contact the Canadian Information Centre for International
Credentials at www.cicic.ca

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Criteria Eligibility Requirements

Language ability NOC 0, A and B

If your first language is not English or French, your written proof or explanation must clearly show
that you meet the criteria listed in the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) or Niveaux de
compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for at least CLB/NCLC Level 5.
Your abilities are verified by one or more of the following:
 Educational transcripts or other documentation indicating English or French as the
principal language of instruction or communication.
 Employment history and references with English or French as the principal language of
communication.
 Internationally recognised test results to prove a CLB/NCLC Level 5.
NOC C and D
Even if your first language is English or French, you must submit internationally recognized test
results to prove a minimum CLB/NCL Level 4.
See above section Language Standards and Mandatory Testing for more information.

Work experience At the time of submission, you must have work experience of 12 months within the last 5 years
(1,560 hours or more), related to the position and skills for the job. Volunteer work and unpaid
internships do not count.
The evidence of work experience or transferable skills will be verified by certified education and
work experience via your résumé or curriculum vitae (CV), letters of reference from employers and
supporting employment documents.

Adaptability and You must show that you have a genuine intention to settle in Nova Scotia in your application form.
intention to settle You must provide a detailed explanation of why you chose Nova Scotia to permanently settle and
what you feel Nova Scotia can offer to you and your family.
Your explanation can include details such as your plans for accommodation/housing;
transportation; employment/job; schools or child care; language training plans; and integration into
community.
Include all information you think is relevant.
All responses must be in your own words. Do not copy information from other sources.

Financial and SETTLEMENT SUPPORTS: You can demonstrate that you have sufficient settlement supports
settlement and financial resources, including transferable funds in your name or your spouse’s name, to pay
supports your immigration costs and travel expenses (if applicable) and to successfully establish yourself
and your family in Nova Scotia.
Federal guidelines generally recommend that immigrants arrive with a minimum of $11,000, plus
$2,000 for each dependent. This recommended amount is reduced in the case of a principal
applicant who is already living in Nova Scotia or has arranged employment. In all cases, proof of
some financial resources in your own name is required.
NOTE: The Office of Immigration will not approve an application if it appears likely that
your family income (based on your job offer and any spousal income) will be below
Statistics Canada’s applicable Low-Income Cut-Off at Table 3 of
www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/applications/guides/5196ETOC.asp#5196E9

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Criteria and Requirements for the Employer
Criteria Eligibility Requirements
Registration The business must have a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia.5
status
The Office of Immigration accepts applications from workers with employers in the public sector and
not-for-profit organizations with a permanent establishment in Nova Scotia. A not-for-profit organization
must be registered under the Societies Act and demonstrate financial ability and stability to support the
position on a long-term basis.

Operational The employer’s business must have been in active operation in Nova Scotia for at least two years
status and be in good standing with provincial occupational health and safety and labour authorities and not
be in violation of the Immigration, Refugee and Protection Act (IRPA) or Immigration, Refugee and
Protection Regulations (IRPR).

Business Employers must pay the federal employer compliance fee when hiring foreign nationals unless
Practices exempt. See www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/employers/hire-how.asp for further information.
Employer must have a history of good workplace and business practices, and must be compliant with
all applicable laws and regulations.
Most employers who wish to recruit and hire foreign workers for employment in Nova Scotia must
obtain a Foreign Worker Employer Registration Certificate from Labour Standards. (see
http://novascotia.ca/lae/employmentrights/FW/ForeignWorker_Employer_Registration_Information.asp)
Employers cannot make deductions from wages or salaries for business costs such as bringing a
foreign worker to Canada.
Employment agencies and similar placement firms cannot act as an employer unless they are
establishing a full-time permanent employer-employee relationship with the applicant themselves.
Deviation or violation of these obligations will result in the Office of Immigration’s refusal to accept
NSNP applications by workers employed with such employers.
Employment The employer must make a full time, permanent job offer6 for a job preferably for a NOC Level O, A
offer or B.
The job, located in Nova Scotia, must:
▪ have compensation in the form of salary that meets provincial employment standards and the
provincial wage range. (see www.jobbank.gc.ca/wage-outlook_search-
eng.do?reportOption=wage),
▪ be a position which has a shortage of qualified permanent residents or Canadian citizens to fill the
position,
▪ not contravene any existing bargaining unit agreements, labour agreements/standards or involved
in any employment disputes.
The NSNP will consider selected jobs defined as NOC C based on local labour market requirements
and conditions, and six (6) months of work with the Nova Scotia employer supporting the application.
Consideration for NOC D occupations is based on the criteria listed under the section “Occupations” in
this guide.

5 “Permanent establishment” has the meaning contained in the Income Tax Act, Canada.
6A permanent job has no pre-determined end date; it is a long-term job offer. Full-time employment means that the employee is expected to work
year round and, on average, at least 30 hours a week.

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Criteria Eligibility Requirements
Recruitment The employer must provide evidence of recruitment for the position. This evidence must predate the
efforts applicant’s current offer of employment. Satisfactory evidence can be either:
• a current positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), as described below,
• proof that the position offered or worker is considered to be LMIA exempt, or
• three advertisements and related information that meet the conditions described below.

LABOUR MARKET IMPACT ASSESSMENT

If the employer has received a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada
(Service Canada) for this position, attach a copy of the LMIA in which the applicant is named. No
other recruitment documentation is required. The LMIA’s expiry date must be on or after the date of
application to the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration (NSOI).

LABOUR MARKET IMPACT ASSESSMENT EXEMPTION

If the position offered and/or the worker is LMIA exempt as identified by Immigration, Refugees and
Citizenship Canada, proof must be submitted. (see: www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/apply-who-permit.asp)

ADVERTISEMENTS
If there is no current positive LMIA, or the offered position and/or worker is not considered LMIA
exempt, provide a copy of the job advertisement that appeared in three different publications, one
being national in scope (i.e., Job Bank or any other Canada-wide resources considered an effective
method of recruitment for the position are acceptable.)
All advertisements must occur in the six months prior to the date of the job offer to the applicant. Each
advertisement must be publicly available for no less than four consecutive weeks. The employer must
be able to demonstrate that the print media and websites used to advertise the job target an audience
in Canada that has the appropriate education, professional experience, language ability and skill level
required for that job.
The advertisement must be in English or French and include the:
• Company operating name and contact information: telephone number, cell phone number, email
address, fax number, or mailing address;
• Title of position
• Job duties
• Skill requirements
• Location of work (city or town)

NOTE
Recruitment efforts are mandatory, unless the applicant is in possession of a valid LMIA or is in a
position considered LMIA exempt. The Office of Immigration reserves the right to request additional
information to demonstrate recruitment efforts in support of an application.

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Support and Retention Plan

When reviewing an application, the Office of Immigration will consider the employer's support to the immigrant
employee. Supports may consist of financial or non-financial assistance such as covering or contributing to the
immigration fees, accommodation/housing, and referrals to settlement services agencies or language classes.
Examples of employer retention activities include settlement assistance, bonuses or incentives, career training
plans, benefits packages and advancement opportunities.

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Application and Assessment Process

If you and your employer meet all the eligibility criteria, you can prepare and submit a complete application
package to the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP).

Both you and your employer will be required to provide documents. You will submit a complete application
package with all documentation. You must notify the NSNP of any changes in your status or eligibility
criteria for this stream, including change of employer or loss of employment.

Note: any misrepresentation in your application package is grounds for refusal of your application.

1. The principal applicant prepares an application

Gather and prepare all your application materials. Appendix 1: Forms and Supporting Documents Checklist will
assist you in preparing your NSNP application. Read it and this guide carefully and thoroughly.

2. The employer prepares an employer form

Your employer must prepare:
• NSNP 200 Employer Form
• Supporting documents

3. Submit your NSNP application online or by mail

APPLICATIONS WHICH DO NOT FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS WILL NOT BE ASSESSED.

Gather and prepare all your application materials. Appendix 1: Forms and Supporting Documents Checklist will
assist you in preparing your NSNP application. Read it and this guide carefully and thoroughly.

You have two options to submit your application:

Apply through Nova Scotia’s online service at Apply by mailing paper applications to:
http://novascotia.ca/eNSNP where you can:
Nova Scotia Office of Immigration
• Create an account PO Box 1535
• Save your application in process Halifax NS B3J 2Y3
• Submit supporting documents as PDF CANADA
attachments

Organize your completed forms and supporting documents according to Appendix 1 – Forms and Supporting
Documents Checklist. It is your responsibility to submit all requested documents, including the signed NSNP 200
Employer form and supporting documents. If documents are missing, not translated by a certified translator, or
are not clear, your application will not be assessed.

FOR ONLINE APPLICATIONS: All supporting documents must be provided as portable document format (PDF)
files. You will have to scan paper documents into PDF files and convert electronic documents into PDF files.
Note that all documents must be clear enough to read and:
• Documents with images should be scanned in colour.

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 • Text-only documents may be scanned at a grayscale setting to reduce file size.
• Scanner resolution should be a minimum of 300 dots per inch.
• No enhancement or editing should be done to a scanned document.
• The total size of all documents attached to your application must be no more than 50 megabytes (MB).
• The file names of attachments must be no more than 50 characters.

FOR PAPER APPLICATIONS: Photocopy or scan all your completed forms and supporting documents and
keep those copies for your records. When preparing your application package DO NOT:
• make double-sided copies,
• bind your application or put the pages in a ring binder,
• enclose individual pages in plastic, envelopes or folders,
• tie, sew, bolt, or glue the pages together,
• use multiple staples on a page,
• send multiple copies of identical documents.

FOR ALL APPLICATIONS:

Eligible family members included in the application are called “dependents” and include:
• Spouse (legal marriage),
• Common-law partner7 of at least one year, and
• Dependent children: Daughters and sons, including adopted children, who:
o are under the age of 22 and do not have a spouse or common-law partner;
o are 22 years of age or older and have depended substantially on the financial support of the
parent since before the age of 22 and are unable to be financially self-supporting due to a
physical or mental condition

Certified Translation of Documents: When documents are not in English or in French, the principal applicant
must submit a photocopy of the original document and a photocopy of the certified translation. The Office of
Immigration will only accept translations prepared by certified translators. Translators must be certified by a
regulatory body and cannot be a family member of the applicant or spouse, or common-law partner, or work for
a paid consultant or representative who is preparing the application. The applicant must also supply proof from
the translator describing their translation ability or certification.

Use of a Representative: If you are using a paid immigration representative to conduct business on your behalf
with the Province of Nova Scotia, that individual must be either:
• an immigration consultant who is a member in good standing of the Immigration Consultants of Canada
Regulatory Council (ICCRC) (visit www.iccrc-crcic.ca); or
• a lawyer or paralegal who is a member in good standing of a Canadian Law Society or a student-at-law
under the supervision of a recognized lawyer (visit flsc.ca/about-us/our-members-canadas-law-
societies); or
7 You are a common-law partner either of the opposite sex or same sex if you have been living together in a conjugal relationship for at least one year
in a continuous, non-interrupted 12-month period. If you have maintained a conjugal relationship for at least one year but have been prevented from
living together or marrying, you may be considered common-law after providing evidence there was a satisfactory reason you could not live together.
In either case, you will need to provide a Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union [IMM 5409] available at
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/pdf/kits/forms/IMM5409E.pdf.

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 • a notary public who is a member in good standing of the Chambre des notaires du Québec or a student-
at-law under their supervision (visit http://www.cnq.org/).

WARNING: Payment to an individual who is not regulated as above offers no legal opportunity for complaint and
is strongly discouraged by this office. The Office of Immigration will not deal with non-authorized representatives.

4. The application is assessed by the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration

A. Eligibility and completion check

If your application is considered, the Office of Immigration will review your application to ensure that it is
complete and meets eligibility criteria before it is assessed. If your application is not complete or if you do not
meet basic eligibility requirements, your application will be returned.

B. Assessment
The Office of Immigration will conduct a full review and evaluation of the complete application subject to
application volumes and the possible circumstances set out above under “Disclaimer.” The Office of Immigration
reserves the right to request an interview with the applicant and/or to contact the employer to gather additional
information or to clarify information provided.

C. Decision
Nomination is at the sole discretion of the Office of Immigration. If an application is assessed, the Office of
Immigration will communicate the decision in writing to the applicant or their representative. If nominated by the
Province of Nova Scotia:
• the applicant will receive a letter from the Office of Immigration to confirm that a Nomination has been
issued; and
• the Proof of Nomination will be sent directly to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada by the
Office of Immigration. Note: the Proof of Nomination expires 6 months after the date of issuance.

D. Refusal
If the application is being considered for refusal, the applicant or their representative will receive a letter of intent
to refuse from the Office of Immigration. The applicant has 10 business days to submit additional information to
be considered by the Office of Immigration.*

After 10 business days the file, including any new information submitted, will be re-assessed and a final decision
made. This decision is sent in writing. There is no appeal process.

*In extenuating circumstances (hospitalization or death in family), extensions may be given, on a case by case basis.

5. Temporary work permit for provincial nominees

If you are not applying for a temporary work permit, proceed to Number 6.

Letter of Support
If nominated by the Province of Nova Scotia, it is possible to request a letter from the Office of Immigration to
support the application of a temporary work permit or the renewal of an existing work permit. This letter of
support replaces the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Service Canada in applying for the new
work permit.

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This request should not be submitted until within three (3) months of the expiry of the current work permit, if
applicable. Also, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada cannot authorize status documents (e.g., work
permit) if the individual’s passport will not be valid during the requested timeframe.

Note: For a new work permit or a work permit extension, the applicant must be paid within the current wage
range for the position. For current wage information, see www.jobbank.gc.ca/wage-outlook_search-
eng.do?reportOption=wage.

The work permit will enable the applicant to continue working in Nova Scotia while the application for a
permanent resident visa is being processed at the Canadian visa office. Contact the Office of Immigration.

6. If nominated, the applicant applies for a permanent resident visa

If nominated by the Province of Nova Scotia, then you, the applicant, are responsible for submitting a complete
application for a permanent resident visa to the Centralized Intake Office as indicated in the Office of
Immigration’s Letter of Nomination, within 6 (six) months.

To find out how to apply, review the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website:
www.cic.gc.ca/english/immigrate/provincial/index.asp.

A nomination by the Province of Nova Scotia does not guarantee that a permanent resident visa will be
issued.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada makes the final decision for the granting of permanent resident
visas after ensuring that all legislative requirements are met, including medical, criminality and security checks.

The Office of Immigration may withdraw your nomination at any time prior to the issuance of the permanent
resident visa and prior to landing in Canada if:
• You no longer meet minimum eligibility requirements of the NSNP such as changes in your
employment;
• The Office of Immigration is advised by the Canadian visa office that any information provided in your
application for permanent residency is false or fraudulent; or
• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada finds that you or a dependent is inadmissible as a result
of medical, criminality, security checks or invalid passport.

7. Issuance of permanent resident visa

If approved by the visa office, you, your spouse and dependents will be issued a Confirmation of Permanent
Residence.

You must contact the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration within 30 days of your arrival.

You must provide the Office of Immigration with a copy of the Confirmation of Permanent Residence, as well as
a current Nova Scotia address and contact information such as phone number(s) and email address.

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Appendix 1 – Forms and Supporting Documents Checklist
A detailed explanation of all the forms and supporting documents can be found in Appendix 2 – Forms and
Supporting Documents Reference Sheet.

If copies are requested, do not send originals as they will not be returned to you. Review and organize your
completed forms and supporting documents in the order below before submitting your application. The Office of
Immigration reserves the right to request further information if required.

Nova Scotia Nominee Program forms

eNSNP 100 - online application For the principal applicant
(http://novascotia.ca/eNSNP)
or
NSNP 100 – Application Form, provide original
paper form
Provide originals or copies
NSNP 200 – Employer Form, signed by employer, and Principal applicant collects the NSNP 200 form from the
supporting documents as described on the form, employer who has made the permanent job offer
including:
 a detailed position description
 detailed conditions of employment
 a signed copy of the accepted job offer
NSNP 50 – Use of a Representative (if applicable) For the principal applicant and dependents aged 19 or
older
NSNP 60 – Authority to Release Personal Information For the principal applicant and dependents aged 19 or
to a Designated Individual (if applicable) older

Supporting Documents – provide COPIES ONLY

Valid passports and travel documents For the principal applicant, spouse or common-law
partner and dependents
Visas and permits: Proof of legal presence in your For the principal applicant, spouse or common-law
country of residence if other than your country of partner and dependents
nationality (e.g., work permit)
Correspondence from past immigration attempts to For the principal applicant, spouse or common-law
Canada (if applicable) partner and dependents
Birth certificates identifying both parents For dependents
Marriage certificate (if applicable) For the principal applicant
Custody documents and permission for the child to For the principal applicant and spouse or common-law
come to Canada (if applicable) partner
Adoption papers (if applicable) For the principal applicant and spouse or common-law
partner

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Supporting Documents – provide COPIES ONLY
Education proof: Certificates, diplomas, degrees For the principal applicant
Proof of English or French language ability For the principal applicant (see criteria section)
Letters of reference from employers For the principal applicant
Proof certified to work in Nova Scotia: Certification with For the principal applicant
licensing bodies, regulatory agencies (if applicable)
Resume / Curriculum Vitae For the principal applicant
Financial documents – proof of settlement supports and For the principal applicant and spouse or common-law
transferable funds (e.g., bank statements, investments partner
portfolio)

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Appendix 2 – Forms and Supporting Documents Reference Sheet

The following is a detailed explanation of all the documents referred to in Appendix 1 – Forms and Supporting
Documents Checklist.

Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) Forms

This form must be completed by the principal applicant.

eNSNP 100 - online application (http://novascotia.ca/eNSNP)

or
NSNP 100 – Application Form
Submit one completed and signed original form (signature can be in native script).

Provide originals or copies

NSNP 200 – This form must be completed by the Nova Scotia employer who is making the permanent full-time
Employer Form, job offer. It should be completed by the authorized signing officer of the company that made the job
signed by the offer.
employer, and The supporting documents, as described on the form, include:
supporting
documents  a detailed position description
 detailed conditions of employment
 a signed copy of the accepted job offer
The Office of Immigration reserves, at its sole discretion, the right to not accept applications from
employers who have failed to comply with the requirements of the NSNP.

NSNP 50 – Use of Optional. Use this form if you wish to designate an authorized representative who has your
a Representative permission to conduct business on your behalf with the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration. When
you appoint a representative, you also authorize the Province of Nova Scotia to share information
from your case to this person.
This form must be completed by the principal applicant and by all accompanying family members
aged 19 or older.
NSNP 60 – Optional. Use this form if you wish to have your application information sent to a designated
Authority to individual other than yourself or your representative.
Release Personal The individual you designate will be able to obtain information on your case file, such as the status
Information to a of your application. However, he or she will not be a representative who can conduct business on
Designated your behalf with Nova Scotia Office of Immigration.
Individual
This form must be completed by the principal applicant and by all accompanying family members
aged 19 or older.

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Supporting Documents – Provide COPIES ONLY
Where the documents are not in English or in French, the principal applicant must submit a photocopy of the
original document and a photocopy of the certified translation.

Passports, Travel For the principal applicant, spouse or common-law partner, and all accompanying dependents.
Documents and  Valid regular passport. Include only copies of pages showing the passport number, date of
Visas issue and expiry, your photo, name, date and place of birth, and any previous visas and/or
visits to Canada. In order to ensure successful immigration processing, it is recommended
that passports have an expiry date no less than two years from the date of your Nova Scotia
Nominee Program application.
 If you live in a country other than your country of nationality, include a photocopy of your visa
for the country where you currently live.
 Previous temporary residence permits, if applicable and available.
 Correspondence from previous attempts to immigrate to Canada through provincial or federal
immigration categories. Include correspondence received from the provincial or Canadian
government associated with each previous application.
Civil Status If applicable:
Documents  Marriage certificate
Children’s  Birth certificates indicating both parents.
Information If applicable:
 Adoption papers.
 Custody documents for children under age 19 (0-18)
o if accompanying, proof that the children may accompany the principal applicant to Canada
Education and You must provide a copy of any certification and training obtained by the principal applicant.
Training
Language Ability NOC 0, A and B
If your first language is not English or French, your written proof or explanation must clearly show
that you meet the criteria listed in the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) or Niveaux de
compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) for at least CLB/NCLC Level 5.
Your abilities are verified by one or more of the following:
• Educational transcripts or other documentation indicating English or French as the
principal language of instruction or communication.
• Employment history and references with English or French as the principal language of
communication.
• Internationally recognised test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF) to prove a CLB/NCLC Level
5.

NOC C and D
Even if your first language is English or French, you must submit internationally recognized test
results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF) to prove a minimum CLB/NCL Level 4.

See Language Standards and Mandatory Testing for more information.

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Supporting  Letters of reference from employers
Employment  Resume or curriculum vitae.
History and
Documents  If applicable, proof of certification for principal applicant with a licensing or regulatory
association or organization or any permits required to hold an occupation abroad or in
Canada.

Letters of reference must:

• be written on company letterhead
• be signed by the responsible officer/supervisor
• show company’s full address, telephone and fax numbers, e-mail and website
addresses
• be stamped with the company’s official seal (if applicable)

Letters must include all the following information:

• the specific period of your employment with the company
• the positions you have held during the period of employment and time spent in
each position
• your main responsibilities and duties in each position
• your annual salary plus benefits in each position, and
• the number of hours worked per week in each position
Financial For the principal applicant, spouse or common-law partner. You may provide one or a combination
Documents of the following:
 Letter from financial institutions indicating the balance and transactional history for the last
three months.
 Financial institutions’ statements demonstrating access to transferable, liquid funds and
assets.
 Investments portfolio.
 Do NOT include real estate or personal items such as jewelry, furniture and vehicles.

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Contact Information

Postal Box Address (Mail) Civic Address (In person)

Nova Scotia Office of Immigration Nova Scotia Office of Immigration

PO Box 1535 1469 Brenton Street
Halifax NS B3J 2Y3 3rd Floor
CANADA Halifax NS
CANADA

Tel: (902) 424-5230

Fax: (902) 424-7936
[email protected]
www.novascotiaimmigration.ca

Find “Nova Scotia Immigration” on the following social media websites:

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