New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream Revamped for 2025: 3 New Pathways Introduced
Attention all immigration hopefuls!
The New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream has undergone significant changes in 2025. Instead of one broad pathway, the stream now features three distinct pathways, each with its own set of criteria.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s new and what you need to know before you submit your Expression of Interest (EOI).
The Three New Pathways for 2025:
- New Brunswick Experience
For individuals with strong work experience in New Brunswick. - New Brunswick Graduates
For international graduates from recognized New Brunswick institutions. - New Brunswick Priority Occupations
Targeted at candidates with skills in priority sectors — but this pathway is currently paused.
Important Updates on the Priority Occupations Pathway
- Currently Closed:
Immigration New Brunswick is not accepting EOIs through the Priority Occupations Pathway at this time. - NOC Occupations Not Being Considered:
Even if you apply through the other pathways, job offers or work experience in the following occupations are not being considered:
| Occupation | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Accounting technicians and bookkeepers | 12200 |
| Administrative assistants | 13110 |
| Shippers and receivers | 14400 |
| Retail and wholesale trade managers | 60020 |
| Restaurant and food service managers | 60030 |
| Retail sales supervisors | 62010 |
| Food service supervisors | 62020 |
| Cooks | 63200 |
| Bakers | 63202 |
| Retail salespersons and visual merchandisers | 64100 |
| Bartenders | 64301 |
| Hotel front desk clerks | 64314 |
| Customer service representatives (other) | 64409 |
| Food and beverage servers | 65200 |
| Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers, and related occupations | 65201 |
| Fish and seafood plant workers | 94142 |
| Labourers in food and beverage processing | 95106 |
| Labourers in fish and seafood processing | 95107 |
🔔 Important:
If your job title or offer matches any of the above NOC codes, do not submit an EOI, as it will not be considered.
How the EOI Process Works Now
- EOIs are valid for 365 days after submission.
- Not First-Come, First-Served:
New Brunswick reviews all EOIs in the pool and selects candidates through scheduled draws. - Only selected individuals receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs).
Before submitting your EOI:
- Carefully review the updated eligibility criteria for your selected pathway.
- Ensure your occupation is not restricted.
- Submit an EOI only if you fully meet all eligibility requirements.
Submitting without meeting requirements could waste your opportunity and delay your immigration process.
Why These Changes Matter
- Streamlined Selection:
By restructuring the Skilled Worker Stream, New Brunswick aims to better match candidates to its labour market needs. - Higher Standards:
The updated system ensures that only highly eligible and needed workers are invited to apply. - Better Opportunities for Graduates and Workers:
New Brunswick is focusing more on individuals with direct ties to the province through work or education.
If you're planning to immigrate to New Brunswick through the Skilled Worker Stream in 2025, make sure to:
- Choose the correct pathway.
- Check if your occupation is eligible.
- Submit an EOI only when fully eligible.
Stay updated and ready for draw announcements — and if you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to consult an immigration professional! Learn about New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot Program: Detailed Guide & Application Process
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