By Admin, #OasisVisas 
On August 13, Newfoundland and Labrador conducted its latest immigration draw, extending invitations to candidates through both the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).
Draw Highlights
A total of 231 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were released in this round.
- NLPNP: 180 invitations
- AIP: 51 invitations
So far this year, the province has invited 1,675 candidates under the NLPNP and 374 under the AIP.
Immigration Targets for 2025
Like several other provinces, Newfoundland and Labrador saw a reduction in its allocation for economic immigration this year. Initially, its PNP allocation dropped to 1,050 spaces, compared to 2,100 in 2024. However, in February 2025, the province secured an additional 1,000 nomination spaces, raising the total to 2,050 spots.
The AIP allocation, on the other hand, remained steady at 475. With the latest draw completed, the province now has 375 PNP nomination spaces and 101 AIP spaces available for the rest of the year.
Expression of Interest (EOI) System in Newfoundland and Labrador
This is the seventh draw since the province switched to an Expression of Interest (EOI) system earlier this year. Under the previous first-come, first-served model, high application volumes created backlogs. To address this, Newfoundland and Labrador adopted the EOI approach, which allows candidates to submit profiles outlining their skills, qualifications, and experience.
The provincial government reviews these profiles and issues invitations to candidates who best meet labour market needs and program criteria. Successful candidates can then proceed to apply for NLPNP nomination or receive a certificate of endorsement for the AIP.
Understanding the AIP
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is designed to attract skilled workers and international graduates to the four Atlantic provinces of Canada:
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
- Prince Edward Island
The program is employer-driven, meaning applicants need a valid job offer from a designated employer. Candidates must also meet education, language, and work experience requirements.
One benefit for international graduates is that they do not need work experience if they completed their studies in an eligible Atlantic institution and meet other criteria.
Those endorsed under the AIP can apply directly to the federal government for permanent residence (PR) and may also obtain a temporary work permit while their PR application is being processed.