New Brunswick has released the results of a significant round of Provincial Nominee Program (NB PNP) draws held between January 13 and 15, 2026, confirming 379 invitations issued across its Express Entry, Skilled Worker, and Strategic Initiative streams.
These draws, which targeted candidates across all occupational sectors, highlight the province’s aggressive strategy to start the year by retaining experienced workers, international graduates, and Francophone talent.
Skilled Worker Stream Leads with 244 Invitations
The largest share of invitations was issued under the New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream, where 244 candidates received invitations to apply.
These invitations specifically targeted the New Brunswick Experience and New Brunswick Graduates pathways. This focus underscores the province’s commitment to retaining international students and temporary foreign workers who have already integrated into the local labour market and communities. By prioritizing those with established ties to the province, New Brunswick aims to ensure higher retention rates for newcomers.
Francophone Priorities and Express Entry
The New Brunswick Strategic Initiative also saw substantial activity, issuing 115 invitations to candidates under the New Brunswick Francophone Priorities pathway. As the only bilingual province in Canada, New Brunswick continues to leverage this stream to boost French-speaking migration and support the vitality of its Francophone communities.
Additionally, the New Brunswick Express Entry Stream issued 20 invitations to candidates with Employment in New Brunswick. This stream aligns with the federal Express Entry system, allowing the province to select candidates who meet specific local economic needs while expediting their permanent residence applications.
All Sectors Targeted
Notably, all three draws selected candidates from all occupational sectors, rather than restricting invitations to specific high-demand lists. This broad approach suggests a general need for labour across the province’s economy as 2026 begins.
For all three streams, the cut-off date and time for eligible profiles was January 12, 2026, at 11:59:00 pm (AST).
New Brunswick Immigration Draws: January 2026
| Date | Stream | Pathway | Occupational Categories | Invitations Issued |
| Jan 13–15, 2026 | Skilled Worker Stream | NB Experience; NB Graduates | All sectors | 244 |
| Jan 13–15, 2026 | Strategic Initiative | Francophone Priorities | All sectors | 115 |
| Jan 13–15, 2026 | Express Entry Stream | Employment in NB | All sectors | 20 |
| Total | 379 |
