New Brunswick to Welcome More Immigrants in 2025 to Tackle Labour Shortages
In a major boost to its workforce and economy, New Brunswick has secured a nearly threefold increase in its immigration allocation for 2025. The federal government has raised the province’s Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) quota to 4,250 nominations, up from 2,750 earlier this year.
This makes New Brunswick’s immigration target higher than British Columbia’s for the first time, signaling a strategic shift toward regional immigration growth. The move comes as the province faces critical labour shortages in healthcare, education, and construction, with employers struggling to fill positions. Here’s a breakdown of what this expansion means for workers, businesses, and New Brunswick’s future
Why New Brunswick’s Immigration Quota Is Increasing
New Brunswick’s population is aging, and key industries are experiencing severe worker shortages. According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB), 51% of small businesses in the province cite labour shortages as their biggest challenge.
To address this, the federal and provincial governments have agreed on a two-part strategy:
- Nearly tripling PNP nominations to attract skilled workers.
- Accepting 400 asylum claimants over two years, supported by $14.1 million in federal funding for housing and settlement services.
Federal Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab emphasised that this approach ensures “a more coordinated and sustainable way to help newcomers settle and contribute to Canada’s workforce.”
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Key Sectors That Will Benefit
1. Healthcare: Addressing Critical Staffing Gaps
New Brunswick’s healthcare system is under strain due to an aging population. The province urgently needs:
- Nurses
- Doctors
- Medical technicians
The increased PNP quota will fast-track internationally trained healthcare professionals, reducing wait times and improving care access.
2. Education: Recruiting Teachers & Support Staff
Schools across the province are struggling to hire qualified educators. The expanded immigration program will help recruit:
- Teachers (especially in French-language schools)
- Early childhood educators
- Special education assistants
3. Construction: Fueling Infrastructure Growth
With major housing and infrastructure projects underway, New Brunswick needs:
- Carpenters
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Heavy equipment operators
The influx of skilled tradespeople will help meet housing demands and support economic expansion.
Support for Asylum Claimants & Newcomers
As part of the agreement with Ottawa, New Brunswick will welcome 400 asylum seekers over the next two years. The federal government’s $14.1 million investment will provide:
- Temporary housing
- Language training
- Job placement support
Provincial representatives will meet with asylum claimants to connect them with employers in high-demand fields, ensuring a smooth transition into the workforce.
Industry & Employer Reactions
The decision has been widely praised by business leaders, including:
- The Agricultural Alliance of New Brunswick
- The New Brunswick Multicultural Council
- Major employers like Irving
Louis-Philippe Gauthier (CFIB Vice-President, Atlantic Canada) stated:
“With over half of small businesses struggling to find workers, this expansion is a crucial step toward filling job vacancies and sustaining growth.”
What’s Next for New Brunswick Immigration?
- More employer-driven PNP draws targeting healthcare, trades, and education.
- Enhanced settlement services for newcomers, including language training and housing assistance.
- Stronger partnerships between government, employers, and immigrant support organizations.
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New Brunswick’s tripled immigration quota marks a major opportunity for skilled workers worldwide while addressing the province’s most pressing labour gaps. By prioritizing healthcare, education, and construction workers, the province is positioning itself as a top destination for newcomers seeking stability and career growth in Canada.
For those considering immigration to Atlantic Canada, 2025 may be the best year yet to apply. Stay updated with official IRCC announcements and New Brunswick’s PNP streams to maximize your chances of success.
