How International Students Can Turn Their Nova Scotia Education into Permanent Residence
By Skillsara Immigration & Study Pathways Team
Insights reviewed with Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants
For many international students, studying in Canada is just the first step. The real goal is to
build a long-term future—with stable work, Permanent Residence (PR), and eventually citizenship.
If you studied in Nova Scotia, there’s a lesser-known but very practical PR pathway you should know about:
the International Graduates in Demand stream, under the
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP).
This program is specifically designed for recent international graduates whose education and work experience
align with high-demand occupations in the province.
What Is the International Graduates in Demand Stream?
The International Graduates in Demand stream helps Nova Scotia address labour shortages in critical sectors such as:
- Healthcare
- Early childhood education
Through this stream, the province can nominate eligible international graduates for Permanent Residence—provided they:
- Studied in Nova Scotia
- Hold a full-time, permanent job offer
- Work in an approved high-demand occupation
Once nominated by Nova Scotia, candidates can apply to the federal government for PR.
For students who qualify, this is one of the most direct PR pathways in Atlantic Canada.
Who Is This Stream Best Suited For?
- Studied at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Nova Scotia
- Are already working in Nova Scotia after graduation
- Have a job in healthcare or early childhood education
- Want a province-backed PR route, not just Express Entry
Eligible Occupations (NOC Codes)
Nova Scotia currently accepts applications only for the following occupations:
- NOC 32102 – Paramedical occupations
- NOC 32124 – Pharmacy technicians
- NOC 33102 – Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates
- NOC 42202 – Early childhood educators and assistants
Important: Your job offer must directly match your field of study completed in Nova Scotia.
Education-job mismatches are a common reason for refusal.
Eligibility Requirements (Explained Simply)
To submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), you must meet all of the following conditions.
Job Offer
- A full-time, permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer
- A role under one of the approved NOC codes
- A job that is closely related to your Nova Scotia education
Age Requirement
- Between 19 and 55 years old
Education Requirements
- At least a high school diploma
- Completed a program at an eligible Nova Scotia DLI
- Finished the program within the last 3 years
Program length rules:
- Minimum 30 weeks, or
- 24 weeks for NOC 33102
At least 50% of your studies must be completed in Nova Scotia.
Minimum Education by Occupation
| NOC Code | Minimum Education |
|---|---|
| 32102 / 32124 | Diploma |
| 33102 | Certificate, Diploma, or Degree |
| 42202 | Diploma or Degree |
Licensing & Certification
You must hold all required provincial licenses or certifications for your occupation,
issued by Nova Scotia regulatory bodies. This is especially critical for healthcare roles.
Language Requirements (Very Important)
- CLB 5 or higher in English or French
Accepted tests include IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF.
At Skillsara, we often see strong profiles delayed
only because language scores were not ready on time.
Settlement Funds
You must show that you have enough funds to settle in Nova Scotia,
particularly if you’re relocating with dependents.
How the Application Process Works
The process takes place in two stages:
Step 1: Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Submit your profile online to Nova Scotia
- This is not a full application
- The province reviews your eligibility and labour-market fit
Step 2: Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- If selected, you receive an ITA
- You submit a full NSNP application
- Once nominated, you apply for Permanent Residence to IRCC
Key Forms & Documents to Expect
- NSNP Application Guide
- Employer Information Form (NSNP 200)
- Use of a Representative Form (NSNP 50) (if applicable)
- Authority to Release Personal Information (NSNP 60)
- Program Integrity Policy acknowledgements
Why This Stream Matters for International Students
- Rewards local education
- Values real job offers, not just CRS scores
- Supports graduates already integrated into Nova Scotia
- Offers a clear alternative to Express Entry
For the right candidate, this can be a faster, more predictable PR route.
Where Skillsara Fits In
At Skillsara,
we don’t file immigration applications—but we help you prepare correctly and early, especially with:
- IELTS / CELPIP / PTE preparation aligned with PR timelines
- Understanding how language scores affect immigration options
- Planning studies, work, and language tests as one integrated journey
- Avoiding last-minute stress that delays PR eligibility
Many students lose valuable time because they start language prep too late.
A strong profile means education + job + language readiness—fully aligned.
Final Thoughts
The International Graduates in Demand stream is one of Nova Scotia’s most practical PR pathways
for international students—but it’s also very specific.
Small mistakes in NOC selection, education-job alignment, or
language planning can cost you months—or even eligibility.
If you’re studying or working in Nova Scotia and aiming for PR, now is the right time to plan your language tests strategically and understand how your profile fits long-term.
