New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot

The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP) is an immigration program launched to address labor shortages in the province of New Brunswick, Canada. This program provides a unique opportunity for foreign workers to secure permanent residency (PR) while working for designated employers in sectors facing a labor crisis.

If you’re considering moving to Canada for work, this topic will guide you through everything you need to know about the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot-its requirements, application process, benefits, and more.

1. What Is the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot?

The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP) is a five-year program launched in November 2022 to fill labor shortages in specific industries across the province. Unlike other immigration programs, NBCWP offers enhanced settlement support, including job training, language training, and career development.

The program is employer-driven, meaning only selected companies can hire foreign workers through this stream. These employers provide long-term job opportunities and additional support to help newcomers integrate into New Brunswick’s workforce and communities.

2. Why Was This Program Introduced?

New Brunswick has been struggling with a declining workforce due to:

Aging population
Low birth rates
A shortage of skilled and semi-skilled workers

To tackle this issue, the provincial government partnered with selected employers to attract foreign workers and help them settle permanently. The program focuses on industries where the demand for workers exceeds local supply.

3. Key Features of the Program

The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot stands out from other immigration programs because it offers:

Permanent Residency (PR) Support – Workers hired under this pilot have a clear pathway to PR.
Job-Specific Training – Employers must provide training related to the job, ensuring workers adapt quickly.
Language Training – Free English or French language courses are offered to those needing improvement.
Settlement Assistance – Employers help newcomers find housing, transportation, and other essential services.
Long-Term Employment – Unlike temporary work permits, this program aims for long-term job retention.

4. Designated Employers in New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot

Only six employers have been selected to hire foreign workers under this program. These companies are known for providing strong worker support and long-term career opportunities.

List of Designated Employers:

Cooke Aquaculture Inc. – A seafood company specializing in aquaculture and fish processing.
Groupe Savoie Inc. – A manufacturer of wood products, including lumber and pallets.
Groupe Westco – A leading poultry farming and processing company.
Imperial Manufacturing Group – A producer of building materials and HVAC products.
J.D. Irving Ltd. – A multinational company involved in forestry, transportation, and manufacturing.
McCain Foods – A major food processing company known for frozen food production.

Industries Covered

Food Processing (Seafood, Poultry, Frozen Foods)
Manufacturing and Production
Forestry and Lumber Processing
Agriculture and Farming

These employers are responsible for recruiting foreign workers, providing them with settlement support, and ensuring they integrate successfully into the community.

5. Eligibility Criteria for Applicants

To qualify for the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot, candidates must meet certain criteria.

Basic Eligibility Requirements:

✔ Job Offer – You must receive a valid job offer from one of the designated employers.
✔ Work Experience – Some positions require previous experience in a related industry.
✔ Education – Minimum high school diploma (varies by job).
✔ Language Proficiency – Basic English or French is required (Language training is available).
✔ Intention to Settle in New Brunswick – Applicants must show commitment to living and working in the province.

Unlike other immigration programs, NBCWP is not strictly points-based like the Express Entry system, making it more accessible to semi-skilled workers.

6. Application Process

Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

To apply for the NBCWP, you must first receive a valid job offer from one of the six designated employers. The employer will guide you through the process and help with your settlement in Canada.

Step 2: Employer Submits Nomination

Once you accept a job offer, the employer submits your application for provincial nomination under the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP).

Step 3: Submit a Permanent Residency (PR) Application

If nominated, you can apply for PR through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Step 4: Receive PR and Move to New Brunswick

Once your PR is approved, you can relocate to Canada and begin working for your employer in New Brunswick.

7. Processing Time

Processing times vary based on several factors, including:

The volume of applications
Your country of residence
Background checks and document verification

Typically, applications take 6 to 12 months for final approval.

8. Benefits of the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot

For Foreign Workers:

✅ Direct Pathway to Permanent Residency – Unlike work permits, this program leads to PR.
✅ Employment Stability – You get a full-time, long-term job in Canada.
✅ Settlement Assistance – Employers help with housing, transportation, and integration.
✅ Language and Job Training – Free courses to help you adapt.
✅ Family Sponsorship – After obtaining PR, you can bring your family to Canada.

For Employers:

✅ Access to Skilled and Semi-Skilled Workers – Helps fill job shortages.
✅ Government Support for Worker Settlement – Reduces hiring challenges.
✅ Retention of Workers – Ensures long-term employee commitment.

9. Challenges and Considerations

While the NBCWP offers great opportunities, there are some challenges:

Limited Employers – Only six companies can hire through this program.
No Direct Application – You must secure a job offer first.
Adapting to Canadian Work Culture – Some jobs require training and language improvement.
Processing Delays – PR applications may take several months to process.

10. Alternative Immigration Pathways

If you don’t qualify for the New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot, consider these alternatives:

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) – Targets workers looking to settle in Atlantic Canada.
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker Program) – A points-based system for skilled workers.
New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream – Requires a job offer from a New Brunswick employer.
Temporary Work Permits – Allows you to gain experience before applying for PR.

The New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP) is an excellent opportunity for foreign workers seeking a stable job and permanent residency in Canada. With job security, settlement support, and language training, this program makes immigration to New Brunswick more accessible for semi-skilled workers.

If you’re interested in this program, start by researching the designated employers, applying for available job opportunities, and preparing for your move to Canada.