New Brunswick Issues 166 Express Entry Invitations on February 2, 2026
Immigration New Brunswick (ImmigrationNB) conducted its latest Express Entry Stream draw on February 2, 2026, issuing 166 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates demonstrating employment ties in New Brunswick. This draw targeted all occupational sectors with a cut-off date of February 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM AST.
How the NBPNP Expression of Interest System Works
New Brunswick uses a simple two-step process for its Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP):
- Submit Expression of Interest (EOI): Create a profile in the INB Portal showing your skills match provincial needs.
- Wait for Invitation: ImmigrationNB reviews EOIs based on labor market demands, nomination quotas, and government priorities.
Key Points:
- Meeting stream criteria does not guarantee an invitation.
- Receiving an ITA does not guarantee nomination approval.
- If invited, submit a complete application for the exact stream specified within the deadline.
Draw Details: February 2, 2026
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date of Draw | February 2, 2026 |
| Cut-off | February 1, 2026, 11:59 PM AST |
| Stream | New Brunswick Express Entry Stream |
| Pathway | Employment in New Brunswick |
| Occupations | All sectors |
| Invitations Issued | 166 |
This draw prioritized candidates already working in NB across any occupation, reflecting the province's need for diverse skilled workers.
Eligible Pathways Explained
Invited candidates likely qualify under the Employment in New Brunswick pathway, which requires:
- Active Express Entry profile linked to NBPNP
- Full-time job offer or current employment in New Brunswick
- Meeting federal Express Entry criteria (CLB 7 language, education, work experience)
No CRS score cutoff announced – selection based on EOI factors like local employment ties.
Next Steps After Receiving an ITA
- Review your invitation email carefully for stream-specific requirements.
- Gather documents: Job offer/employment proof, language tests, ECA, passport.
- Submit complete application via INB Portal before deadline (typically 45-60 days).
- Pay fees and await assessment.
Helpful NBPNP Resources
- First Steps to Immigrating
- NB Immigration Program Streams
- Using a Representative
- After Nomination
- Fraud Reporting
- Before You Arrive
- After You Arrive
Why This Matters for 2026
With federal immigration targets reduced for 2026-2028, provinces like New Brunswick offer stable pathways for workers already contributing locally. Monitor ImmigrationNB for future draws targeting specific sectors or occupations.
Check the official INB Portal regularly – next draw could target different priorities!