Immigration to Canada / May 4, 2026

Newfoundland and Labrador Issues Immigration Invitations in Latest Draw

Candidates receive invitations under Newfoundland and Labrador’s immigration programmes as the province continues selecting skilled workers, though the total number of invitations has reduced in the latest round.

Newfoundland and Labrador invited 190 immigration candidates in its fourth selection round of 2026, held on May 1. The invitations were issued through the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).

Majority of Invitations Through NLPNP

Most invitations in this round went to candidates under the NLPNP. Out of the total 190 invitations, 157 were issued through the provincial nominee program, while 33 were sent through the AIP.

The province does not release details about which specific streams candidates are selected from under the NLPNP. However, this latest round recorded the lowest number of invitations issued so far this year.

Declining Invitations in Recent Draws

The May 1 draw continues a pattern seen throughout 2026, where each round has resulted in fewer invitations overall. Previous draws show a steady drop:

  • April 13: 210 invitations (177 NLPNP, 33 AIP)
  • March 30: 245 invitations (209 NLPNP, 36 AIP)
  • March 6: 445 invitations (362 NLPNP, 83 AIP)

While the total number has decreased, the number of AIP invitations has remained stable in the last two rounds, with 33 candidates selected each time.

Strong Growth Compared to 2025

Despite the recent decline, the province has issued significantly more invitations in 2026 compared to the same period last year. Between January 1 and May 1, a total of 1,090 invitations were issued.

Of these, 905 invitations (83 per cent) were through the NLPNP, while 185 were issued under the AIP.

In contrast, only one draw was held during the same period in 2025. That draw, held on April 3, invited 256 candidates—206 through the NLPNP and 50 through the AIP.

This represents a 325.8 per cent increase in invitations year-over-year for the January to May period.

How Candidates Are Selected

Since February 2025, both the NLPNP and AIP have used an Expression of Interest (EOI) system. Candidates must first submit an EOI form outlining their occupation, education, language ability, and plans to settle in the province.

Most streams require candidates to have a valid job or job offer, except for certain entrepreneur categories.

The Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism reviews applications and invites the most suitable candidates to apply.

Priority Areas for Selection

The province gives preference to candidates in key sectors. Health care jobs are regularly prioritized due to ongoing labour shortages. Positions in rural areas, especially in sales and service, may also receive higher consideration.

Other priority areas include underrepresented occupations such as finance, science, and skilled trades. Candidates with strong ties to the province, including past study or work experience, may have an advantage.

Efforts are also made to support Francophone communities and ensure employers can help newcomers settle successfully.

Application Timeline

Once selected, candidates have 60 days to submit a full application. EOIs remain valid in the pool for up to 12 months.

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