The Skilled Worker stream is for workers who have a full-time, permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer in a TEER 0 to 5 occupation. Since 18 February 2026 it also contains the Construction (formerly Critical Construction Worker), Physician and Occupations In-Demand sub-categories.
Skilled Worker candidates are selected from the Expression of Interest (EOI) pool. Submitting an EOI is free. Since 1 May 2026 an EOI is valid for 12 months, and transition measures apply to EOIs already in the pool: EOIs submitted before May 2024 closed on 1 May 2026, and EOIs submitted from May 2024 to April 2026 stay active until 30 April 2027. Selection is not first come, first served. If you are selected, you have 7 calendar days to review your file, upload updated documents and pay the non-refundable CAD 1,000 application fee.
The official Skilled Worker guide does not describe a points grid. It says selection may be guided by provincial priorities, remaining allocation, the volume of EOIs in the pool and program integrity considerations. A complete EOI with consistent job offer and employment evidence is the practical priority. Applicants in maintained status (formerly implied status) cannot submit an EOI.
Obtain a full-time, permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer in a TEER 0 to 5 occupation. The employer must meet the employer requirements, complete its part of the application and show how it recruited for the position.
Complete the online EOI form with all required information and attachments. Submitting an EOI is free, and it stays valid for 12 months.
Nova Scotia selects EOIs periodically, guided by provincial priorities and remaining allocation. Being in the pool does not guarantee selection. If you are selected, the province contacts you directly with a selection letter.
You have 7 calendar days from the selection letter to review your file, upload updated documents and pay the non-refundable CAD 1,000 fee. Missing the deadline closes the EOI. Assessment can be slowed by integrity reviews, employer compliance checks and high application volume.
If approved, you receive a provincial nomination certificate. The Skilled Worker stream does not use the Express Entry system, so a nomination here does not add CRS points. The certificate expires at the end of the month one year after the nomination date.
Submit your PR application to IRCC within 12 months of the nomination certificate being issued. IRCC sets its own processing times, which are published on the IRCC website.
All foreign documents must be accompanied by certified English or French translations. Ensure your employment reference letters include job title, duties, hours worked, and salary on company letterhead.
Our immigration team can help you prepare a complete, consistent EOI and supporting file.
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