Following the launch of its new Expression of Interest (EOI) immigration intake system on February 19, 2025, the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador conducted its second round of invitations on May 8. A total of 328 candidates received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in this latest draw, marking a significant step in the province's revamped approach to selecting skilled immigrants aligned with its economic needs.

Latest Invitation Round Details

According to figures released by Newfoundland and Labrador's immigration authorities, the invitations issued on May 8 were distributed as follows:

• Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP): 281 invitations
• Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): 47 invitations

This is the second invitation round since the EOI system's inception. The province previously issued 256 ITAs in its inaugural EOI draw on April 3. These regular draws indicate the province's active utilization of the new system to process applications and welcome eligible candidates.

Navigating Allocation Changes

It is noteworthy that, similar to most other Canadian provinces, Newfoundland and Labrador initially saw its provincial nomination allocation for 2025 halved by the federal government. However, through proactive negotiations, the provincial government successfully secured an additional 1,000 economic immigration spaces. This brings Newfoundland and Labrador's total immigration allocation for 2025 to 2,525, offering valuable opportunities for individuals aspiring to live and work in the province.

Understanding Newfoundland and Labrador's New EOI System

The new EOI system introduces a preliminary step to the immigration application process. Key features include:

1. Account Creation and EOI Submission: Interested individuals must first create an account and submit an EOI through Newfoundland and Labrador’s online "Immigration Accelerator" portal, outlining their qualifications and intent to immigrate.
2. EOI Validity: Submitted EOIs remain active in the candidate pool for 12 months from the date of submission.
3. Receiving an ITA: The provincial government periodically selects eligible candidates from the EOI pool and issues them an official ITA.
4. Submitting a Full Application:
1. For NLPNP candidates, upon receiving an ITA, they must submit their complete provincial nomination application.
2. For AIP candidates, their employer in Newfoundland and Labrador submits the application on their behalf.
3. Applicants (or their employers) have 60 days from the issuance of an ITA to submit the full application.
5. Important Note: Receiving an ITA does not guarantee provincial nomination or permanent residence. Applicants must still demonstrate their admissibility to Canada and meet all specific program requirements.

Prior to the EOI system, foreign nationals could apply directly to the province's permanent residence pathways. The new system aims to improve processing efficiency and target candidates more effectively.

Special "Invite Code" Requirement

A crucial detail for applicants to either the NLPNP or AIP is the "invite code":

• Applicants Residing Outside Canada: Individuals applying from outside Canada for either the AIP or the NLPNP require an "invite code" from their prospective employer in Newfoundland and Labrador. This code must be used when submitting their EOI.
• NLPNP Applicants Within Canada with Valid Temporary Status: These applicants are exempt from needing an invite code from their employer to submit an EOI.

This provision underscores the vital role of employers in the immigration process for overseas applicants, while offering a more streamlined path for temporary residents already in Canada.

These adjustments to Newfoundland and Labrador's immigration policy reflect the province's dedicated efforts to attract and retain skilled talent. Prospective immigrants are advised to stay informed about the dynamics and specific requirements of the NL EOI system.