The Nova Scotia Graduate Stream was introduced to help employers address labour shortages in essential sectors by retaining international students who completed relevant programs at Nova Scotia-designated learning institutions.

Unlike many other provincial nominee programs, this stream focuses on specific occupations aligned with provincial labour market needs. Only graduates working in the approved occupations may submit an Expression of Interest.

Key features of the updated stream include:

• Targeted occupations in healthcare and early childhood education

• A requirement that applicants completed their studies in Nova Scotia

• A full-time permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer

• Selection through an Expression of Interest pool

• The possibility of obtaining a provincial nomination leading to permanent residence

Applicants must intend to live and work in Nova Scotia permanently, and the job must meet provincial employment standards.

Eligibility Requirements

To submit an Expression of Interest under the Nova Scotia Graduate Stream, applicants must meet all of the following requirements.

1. Job Offer

Applicants must have:

• A full-time permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer

• Employment of at least 30 hours per week year-round

• A job offer in one of the eligible occupations listed above

• A position that matches the applicant’s field of study

The employer must also:

• Be a legitimate Nova Scotia employer

• Have operated in the province for at least two years

• Offer wages consistent with provincial employment standards. 

2. Education Requirements

Applicants must:

• Have completed a program of study at an eligible Nova Scotia designated learning institution

• Have completed the program within the past three years

• Have completed at least 50 percent of the program while living in Nova Scotia

• Have studied in a program of at least 30 weeks

  • For NOC 33102, the minimum length may be 24 weeks

Program credential requirements depend on the occupation:

Applicants must also provide a letter from the educational institution confirming completion of the program. 

3. Age

Applicants must be between:

19 and 55 years old.

4. Education Level

Applicants must have at least a high school diploma.

5. Language Ability

Applicants must demonstrate language proficiency equal to Canadian Language Benchmark Level 5 in English or French.

Accepted language tests include:

• International English Language Testing System (General Training)

• Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (General)

• Pearson Test of English Core

• Test d’évaluation de français Canada

• Test de connaissance du français Canada

Language test results must be less than two years old at the time of application. 

6. Licensing or Certification

If the occupation requires licensing, applicants must hold the required certification issued by the relevant Nova Scotia regulatory body before applying.

7. Settlement Funds

Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to settle in Nova Scotia.

Proof may include:

• Bank statements

• Investment account statements

• Fixed deposits

Funds must be transferable and available to support settlement costs such as housing, travel, and daily living expenses.