Employer Immigration Supports & Pathways

Employer Supports

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): This is an employer-led pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers and international graduates. To participate, employers must first become provincially designated. Once designated, they can hire eligible candidates and provide AIP endorsement, enabling candidates to apply for a work permit (if needed) and permanent residence in Canada.

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is an applicant-driven pathway to permanent residence, meaning employers do not submit applications on behalf of candidates. The program offers several streams, many of which require a full-time, permanent job offer. Others are based on Nova Scotia work experience or entrepreneurial plans. Employers and candidates can explore available streams through the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration. Under NSNP, there are two key streams:

• Employment Streams: The Nova Scotia Nominee Program offers several pathways for full-time, permanent employment. Those include the Skilled Worker, Occupations in Demand, and International Graduates in Demand streams. Through these streams, employers can support eligible employees in pursuing a work permit (if required) and permanent residence.
• Entrepreneur Streams: The NSNP also offers pathways for entrepreneurs, including streams for experienced business owners and recent Nova Scotia graduates who own and operate a business. Entrepreneurs actively involved in day-to-day operations may be eligible for permanent residence if they meet program requirements. Additional information is available through the Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration.

Global Skills Strategy: If you are looking to fill unique, high-skilled talent, you may be eligible for the Global Skills Strategy. This strategy allows for priority processing and access to a Dedicated Service Channel with IRCC. Employers will be assigned an account manager who can answer questions and provide guidance from within IRCC’s system.

Temporary Foreign Workers

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP):This program enables employers to fill temporary labour shortages when qualified Canadian workers are unavailable. Employers must first obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), after which eligible foreign workers can apply for a work permit. The program includes streams for high- and low-wage positions, as well as specialized pathways for agriculture, caregiving, and other in-demand occupations.

More information is found at Employment and Social Development Canada’s website: Hire a temporary foreign worker with a Labour Market Impact Assessment

More Information Coming Soon

• Employer Toolkit: Roadmap to Hiring Immigrant Talent in Western Nova Scotia
• LSI *New* Employer Critical Vacancy Form
• Western REN Global Talent Pilot for Skilled Trades: Reach out to Alex on our team to learn more

Other Resources for Employers:

• SkillsMatch from Immigrant Services Association of NS (ISANS): matches employers with skilled immigrant talent.
• ISANS Intercultural Workplace Program (IWP)
• Intercultural Workplace Program (IWP) – Immigrant Services Association of Nova Scotia
• Western REN Connector Program:  Connect mentors with newcomers and recent post secondary graduates to build networks and find matches for potential employment 
• Intercultural Competency Training from YMCA through AIP program
• Employment NS
• NS Works Digby
• SW Employment
• CDENE: For Francophone employers