Nova Scotia Immigration Pilot Offers New Opportunities for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians

Nova Scotia is actively seeking to strengthen its healthcare workforce through the Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot, a new initiative designed to attract pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to the province. Announced on August 28, 2024, this program has issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to selected healthcare professionals, presenting a unique opportunity to secure permanent residency in Canada via Nova Scotia's dedicated immigration pathways.

A Targeted Pathway for Healthcare Professionals

The Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot specifically targets pharmacists (NOC 31120) and pharmacy technicians (NOC 32124) to address the province's healthcare staffing needs. Unlike the federal Express Entry system, this pilot does not provide the extra 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points usually associated with provincial nominations. However, it offers a more direct route for healthcare professionals looking to establish themselves in Nova Scotia, allowing them to bypass the higher CRS score thresholds often required in the Express Entry pool.

How the Pilot Program Works

To help match qualified healthcare professionals with employment opportunities in Nova Scotia, the province has released a set of surveys for applicants. Those who received a Letter of Interest (LOI) from Nova Scotia on August 28, 2024, are encouraged to complete these surveys to indicate their interest in the province's healthcare sector. The information collected will be reviewed by the Nova Scotia Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment, along with the Pharmacy Association of Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia College of Pharmacists, to connect candidates with employers.

This initiative is part of Nova Scotia's broader strategy to attract skilled healthcare professionals to meet increasing demand. The province is committed to ensuring a sustainable healthcare system by filling critical roles and providing top-quality care to its residents.

Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) as Other Immigration Opportunities

For healthcare professionals who did not receive a Letter of Interest through the pilot program, other immigration pathways remain available, particularly through the Express Entry system and various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

1. Express Entry System: A Federal Pathway

The Express Entry system is a federal immigration pathway that allows skilled workers to apply for permanent residency in Canada. The system manages three economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Healthcare professionals, including pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, may find the Express Entry system beneficial if they have competitive CRS scores.

• Higher CRS Scores for Competitive Applicants: To be selected in the Express Entry draws, candidates need to maintain a competitive CRS score, which is calculated based on factors such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience.
• Improving CRS Scores: Healthcare professionals can improve their scores by securing a job offer in Canada, obtaining a higher language test score, or gaining additional work experience in their field.

2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): A More Targeted Approach

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are an excellent alternative for healthcare professionals seeking a tailored pathway to Canadian permanent residency. Each province, including Nova Scotia, operates its own PNP to meet specific labor market needs. For pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, two PNP streams are particularly relevant:

• Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) Express Entry Stream: Through this stream, Nova Scotia nominates candidates with the skills and experience needed in the province. If nominated, candidates receive an additional 600 points toward their Express Entry CRS score, virtually guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. Key requirements for this stream include:
  • A valid job offer from a Nova Scotia employer.
  • An active Express Entry profile.
  • Demonstrated language proficiency in English or French.
  • Relevant education and work experience in the healthcare field.
• Other Provincial Nominee Programs: Other provinces, such as Alberta, Ontario, and British Columbia, also have PNPs targeting healthcare professionals. For instance, Alberta's Accelerated Tech Pathway and Ontario's Health Worker stream frequently include healthcare roles. These programs often have lower CRS score thresholds, making them accessible options for healthcare professionals with specialized skills.

Why Express Entry and PNP Are Attractive for Healthcare Professionals

The Express Entry and PNP pathways offer considerable benefits to healthcare professionals looking to move to Canada:

• Priority for Healthcare Professionals: Many provinces, including Nova Scotia, prioritize healthcare roles, providing greater opportunities for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to receive nominations.
• Increased Accessibility: PNPs often have lower CRS score requirements compared to federal Express Entry draws, offering an alternative for candidates who may not meet the high CRS thresholds.
• Faster Processing Times: Express Entry is known for its fast processing times, often completing the immigration process within six months, which can be advantageous for healthcare professionals seeking swift relocation.

How Pelican Migration Consultants Can Help

For healthcare professionals in the Middle East looking to explore these opportunities, Pelican Migration Consultants can provide expert guidance on the most suitable immigration pathway. Our team can help assess your eligibility, improve your CRS score, and navigate the complexities of both the Express Entry and PNP processes. Whether you aim for a direct nomination through a provincial program or increase your competitiveness in the Express Entry pool, we are here to support you every step of the way. Let us help you take advantage of this unique chance to build a future in Canada.

Conclusion

Nova Scotia's Healthcare Professionals Immigration Pilot is just one of many ways for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to achieve permanent residency in Canada. With additional options available through the Express Entry system and various PNPs, healthcare professionals have multiple pathways to consider. By understanding these programs and selecting the best fit, aspiring immigrants can take the first steps toward a rewarding career and a new life in Canada.