Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Francophones

The Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Francophones stream is part of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). It targets French-speaking skilled workers who want to live and work in Nova Scotia and contribute to the province’s bilingual labour force. This stream operates through the federal Express Entry system and aligns with Nova Scotia’s goal of supporting and expanding its francophone communities.

Overview

Through this stream, Nova Scotia selects candidates from the Express Entry pool who demonstrate strong French-language ability and who meet the province’s labour market needs. It allows the province to nominate individuals who can fill key positions in sectors identified by the province.

Successful nominees receive 600 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points in Express Entry, which almost guarantees an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered under the Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Francophones stream, applicants must:

  • Have an active Express Entry profile under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, or Canadian Experience Class.
  • Demonstrate French-language proficiency at NCLC 7 or higher in all abilities (listening, speaking, reading, writing).
  • Demonstrate English-language proficiency at CLB 5 or higher in all abilities.
  • Intend to live and work in Nova Scotia.
  • Receive a Letter of Interest (LOI) from the Nova Scotia Office of Immigration through the Express Entry system.

Required TEF Canada Scores for NCLC 7

To reach NCLC 7, applicants must achieve at least the following minimum scores on the TEF Canada test:

  • Listening: 249
  • Speaking: 310
  • Reading: 207
  • Writing: 310

Meeting or exceeding these scores proves a strong intermediate level of French required for this program.

How the Stream Works

Nova Scotia regularly reviews the Express Entry pool to identify candidates who meet the eligibility criteria. When selected, candidates receive a Letter of Interest in their Express Entry account. Within 30 days, they must submit an application to the Nova Scotia Nominee Program.

If approved, the applicant receives a provincial nomination certificate, which provides an extra 600 CRS points. This leads to an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence in the next Express Entry draw.

Recent Trends

Nova Scotia continues to hold targeted draws for French-speaking candidates to help meet regional labour needs and support bilingual population growth. In 2025, invitations have primarily gone to applicants with experience in education, healthcare, information technology, and business management.

Benefits of the Program

  • Direct pathway to permanent residence through Express Entry
  • 600 additional CRS points upon provincial nomination
  • No job offer required
  • Focus on French-speaking professionals outside Quebec
  • Opportunities to live in a bilingual and welcoming province

Summary

The Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities for Francophones stream offers a fast and reliable route to permanent residence for French-speaking professionals who want to live and work in Nova Scotia. By meeting the NCLC 7 French requirement and maintaining an active Express Entry profile, candidates can strengthen their chances of nomination and contribute to the province’s growing francophone community.

Elliott Immigration can advise and guide you on your application for permanent residence through this program, making your dream of remaining in Canada a reality!