Newfoundland and Labrador has conducted its first immigration draw of 2026, issuing the highest number of invitations ever in a single round through its provincial immigration programs. The draw took place on March 6, 2026, and invited 445 candidates to apply for permanent residence in Canada.
The invitations were issued through two key immigration pathways used by the province to attract skilled workers and address labour shortages.
📊 Key Results of the March 6, 2026 Draw
Here’s a breakdown of the latest selection round:
- Draw date: March 6, 2026
- Total invitations issued: 445
- Programs included:
- Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP): 362 invitations
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): 83 invitations
This draw marks the largest number of invitations issued in a single selection round by the province since it began issuing invitations through its Expression of Interest (EOI) system.
🏛 Programs Used in the Draw
1️⃣ Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
The NLPNP allows the provincial government to nominate skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs who can help meet local labour market needs.
Candidates invited through the NLPNP may apply for a provincial nomination, which can later lead to Canadian permanent residence.
2️⃣ Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program is an employer-driven immigration pathway designed to help Atlantic Canadian provinces hire international workers to fill labour shortages.
To qualify, applicants must typically have:
- A job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada
- A settlement plan
- Provincial endorsement before applying for permanent residence.
📈 Why This Draw Is Significant
This first draw of 2026 stands out because it represents the largest single invitation round ever held by Newfoundland and Labrador.
By issuing 445 invitations, the province demonstrates its continued efforts to:
- Address labour shortages
- Support economic development
- Attract international skilled workers to smaller communities.
Recent draw data also shows that the province has been gradually increasing its immigration activity to meet workforce demands.
📊 How Newfoundland and Labrador Selects Candidates
Candidates must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) profile through the province’s immigration system.
The provincial immigration office then evaluates EOIs based on factors such as:
- Work experience
- Education
- Job offers
- Language proficiency
- Labour market needs
Selected candidates receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for provincial nomination or endorsement.
📌 Final Thoughts
Newfoundland and Labrador’s record-breaking first immigration draw of 2026 highlights the province’s growing role in Canada’s immigration system. By inviting 445 candidates through the NLPNP and Atlantic Immigration Program, the province continues to expand opportunities for skilled workers seeking permanent residence in Canada.
For candidates interested in settling in Atlantic Canada, provincial programs like the NLPNP and AIP remain important pathways to Canadian permanent residence and long-term career opportunities.
