August 13, 2026
The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) is making critical changes that will impact many potential Nova Scotia immigrants. The province will start collecting application fees for some NSNP streams for the first time from September 1, 2026. This change is in response to Nova Scotia’s efforts to improve the administration of programs and ensure consistency with immigration programs throughout Canada.
For those considering applying through the NSNP, here are a few points to keep in mind:
What Is Changing?
From September 1, 2026, the application fees will be required for the candidates whose Expression of Interest (EOI) is shortlisted for evaluation.
The new fees are:
- The cost for NSNP Worker Streams is $1,000 CAD.
-
- Skilled Worker
- Nova Scotia Graduate
- Nova Scotia: Express Entry
- The NSNP Entrepreneur Stream is $2,000 CAD.
Who Needs to Pay?
Please bear in mind that the submission of an Expression of Interest is no cost at all.
After an EOI is selected for assessment the application fee is not required.
This means:
- No fee to make an EOI.
- EOIs that are successful on or after September 1, 2026, will require payment of the appropriate fee, even if the EOI was originally submitted by you prior to September 1, 2026.
- The candidates who have been selected before 1st September 2026 are not required to pay the new fee.
Why Nova Scotia is implementing Application Fees?
The new fees aim to: (Province of Nova Scotia)
- Facilitate effective program management.
- Help maintain the integrity of the immigration system.
- Recoup some of the fees associated with making applications.
- Use limited nomination spaces to meet Nova Scotia labour market and economic needs; ensure nomination spaces are open to applicants who best meet Nova Scotia labour market and economic needs.
The province also states that fees will put Nova Scotia on par with most other PNP programs in Canada.
Payment Deadlines
The application fee has to be paid in time after receiving an invitation to apply.
Worker Streams
Those who apply under the Skilled Worker, Nova Scotia Graduate and Nova Scotia: Express Entry streams will have 7 calendar days from the date they receive notification that their EOI is being considered to pay.
Entrepreneur Stream
These payment deadlines are dependent on the pathway:
- Candidates who start a new business: 90 days.
- 180 days for the candidates who buy an existing business.
- International Graduate Entrepreneur applicants: 90-days.
If payment is not made within the stipulated time limit, the EOI will be closed and the application will not be allowed to proceed for assessment. If Applicants remain eligible, they can re-apply their EOI.
Will the Fees be refunded?
No. Application fees will not be refunded unless required by law or an administrative error by the program. In addition: Payment of application fee:
- Does not ensure nomination.
- Does not raise the likelihood of being selected.
- Does not speed up processing times.
Will This Impact the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?
No.
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) continues as is. The number of applications received for the 2016, 2017 and 2018 programs is lower than it was in 2014.The application count for the 2016, 2017 and 2018 programs is similar to the 2014 number, with no provincial application fees.
What should the prospective applica-कोंत imminent applicants do?
When you think about immigrating to Nova Scotia under the NSNP, it’s now the time to check your eligibility and carefully prepare your Nova Scotia NP application. Application fees are an extra expense, but having a full and complete application with good information is still crucial.
Knowing which stream you are in, keeping your documents current and understanding the changing immigration policies can help prevent delays and avoid unnecessary expenses.
Green Dot Immigration can assist you with the following:
The process of immigrating to Canada can be complex, particularly because immigration laws are constantly changing. The team of experienced consultants at Green Dot Immigration are well-informed about the latest updates on immigration policies and regulations, ensuring that our clients are always informed and make well-informed choices during their immigration journey.
From preparation to submission, our team can help you determine your eligibility for immigration to Canada, whether through the Nova Scotia Nominee Program, the Atlantic Immigration Program, Express Entry or some other immigration pathway, we can help you every step of the way.
Call Green Dot Immigration today to review your immigration goals and get skilled immigration advice that is uniquely yours.
Please note: Immigration policies and program requirements may change. This article is for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal or immigration advice. For your situation, you should contact an immigration expert.
