With the province’s population surpassing 800,000, Opportunities NB has implemented a new Immigration Navigator service to improve the immigration experience.
Arlene Dunn, minister responsible for Opportunities NB said “New Brunswick’s population growth strategy is working. Our population is continuing to increase, largely due to immigration, and we are dedicated to improving the experience for those whose dream it is to live in our beautiful province.”
Dunn said the launch comes at a time when New Brunswick has much to celebrate with respect to increasing its population: total nominations have more than doubled since 2017, francophone nominations have nearly tripled since 2017, and international student nominations have more than tripled since 2019.
The provincial government is also seeking more nominations and faster processing times from the federal government to ease demographic challenges and help meet the labour needs of employers.
Following the pattern of Opportunities NB’s Business Navigator team, the Immigration Navigator service will help potential and active candidates, information seekers, and prospective entrepreneurs navigate the immigration process and support employers’ access to skilled workers.
Business Navigators – launched in 2019 – provide one-on-one support to business owners and entrepreneurs navigating the regulatory challenges associated with starting, owning and operating a business.
Employers are also encouraged to use the Immigration Navigator service when they have questions about hiring international workers or newcomers already living in the province.