After a break of almost one month, New Brunswick has officially resumed issuing provincial nomination invitations. The province held its first draw of December on December 9, 2025, under the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP). This was the first invitation round since November 16, 2025, bringing good news for candidates waiting for updates.
In this draw, New Brunswick issued a total of 110 invitations to eligible candidates through two immigration streams: the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream and the New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream.
Who was selected in this draw
This invitation round focused only on Francophone (French-speaking) candidates, regardless of their occupation. The province used a cut-off date of December 8, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. Atlantic Time, meaning only profiles submitted before this time were considered.
It is important to note that all applications linked to these invitations will be processed in 2026, even though the draw took place in 2025.
Draw results summary
ITAs were issued across two streams and three pathways, with the majority of invitations going to candidates under two pathways of the NBPNP’s Skilled Worker Stream:
Stream Pathway Invitations issued
New Brunswick Express Entry Stream Employment in New Brunswick 8
New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream New Brunswick Experience + New Brunswick Graduates 102
What this draw tells us
This draw clearly shows that New Brunswick continues to prioritize French-speaking candidates, especially those already living, studying, or working in the province. The focus was not on overseas applicants but on individuals who have already built strong ties to New Brunswick.
Who could apply under the Express Entry Stream – Employment in New Brunswick
Candidates invited under this pathway needed to already be part of Canada’s Express Entry system and actively working in New Brunswick. To qualify, applicants must have lived in New Brunswick for the past 12 months and be working full-time in a permanent, non-seasonal job for an eligible employer. The job must fall under TEER categories 0 to 3, which generally include skilled and technical occupations.
In addition, candidates must have at least one full year of continuous work experience in New Brunswick, meet language requirements equivalent to CLB 7, and have completed at least high school education or an equivalent qualification.
Who could apply under the Skilled Worker Stream – New Brunswick Experience
This pathway is designed for workers who are already employed in New Brunswick. Applicants must be working full-time in a permanent job with an eligible employer who is willing to support their application. They must have at least six months of work experience with the same employer and must have lived in New Brunswick for at least six months before submitting their Expression of Interest.
This pathway strongly favors candidates who are already settled in the province and contributing to the local workforce.
Who could apply under the Skilled Worker Stream – New Brunswick Graduates
This pathway targets international graduates from New Brunswick institutions. To qualify, candidates must have completed a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)-eligible program from a New Brunswick Designated Learning Institution (DLI). They must also be working full-time in a permanent job with an eligible employer in the province, or have already accepted such a job offer.
This pathway supports students who studied in New Brunswick and chose to stay and work after graduation.
Important restrictions to be aware of
Even if a candidate meets all general requirements, applications from certain occupations are not considered under these streams. The province regularly updates its list of excluded occupations, so checking eligibility before applying is essential.
What this means for future applicants
This draw confirms that New Brunswick is reopening its PNP activity cautiously, with a strong focus on Francophone candidates and in-province workers and graduates. Candidates living outside New Brunswick or without French language ability may need to wait for future draws with different priorities.
For applicants planning ahead, having Canadian work experience, local education, and French language skills significantly increases the chances of receiving an invitation.
Is this draw open to candidates outside Canada
No. This draw mainly targeted candidates already living and working in New Brunswick, especially those with French language skills.
Do I need to speak French to qualify
For this specific draw, yes. Only Francophone candidates were invited. However, future draws may include non-French speakers depending on New Brunswick’s needs.
Will my application be processed in 2025
No. All applications from this draw will be processed in 2026, as confirmed by the province.
Does having a job in New Brunswick guarantee an invitation
No. While having a job helps, candidates must still meet specific stream requirements, occupation eligibility, and provincial priorities.
Can international students apply under this program
Yes. Graduates from New Brunswick DLIs who meet work and permit requirements may qualify under the New Brunswick Graduates pathway.
