Employer Criteria

Who Can Apply:
Employers in the private, public, and non-profit sectors can support immigration applications through the NLPNP and AIP.

Basic Employer Requirements
To support an application through the NLPNP/AIP, employers must:

  • Be Established in NL:
    • The employer must be permanently established in Newfoundland and Labrador, as defined by the federal Income Tax Act
    • The employer must demonstrate they have been in active business under current ownership and management, in Newfoundland and Labrador, for at least two (2) consecutive years. In exceptional circumstances, one (1) year may be accepted. Some exceptions include:
      • new business opened following closure/sale of previous successful business
      • business engaged with innovation/export markets
      • business located in rural region of Newfoundland and Labrador
  • Have Local Staff:
    • In St. John’s area: at least 2 full-time local employees
    • Outside St. John’s: at least 1 full-time local employee
    • Foreign worker can’t own more than 10% of the business
  • Follow Good Business Practices:
    • Financially stable
    • Compliant with employment, labour, and immigration laws
    • In good standing with WHSCC and Labour Standards
  • Offer a Valid Job:
    • Full-time, at least 2 years, located in NL
    • Meets wage and employment standards
    • Not seasonal, part-time, or short-term (under 12 months)
    • Remote jobs must be based in NL
    • Must not conflict with union agreements or involve labour disputes
  • Show Recruitment Efforts:
    • Must try to hire Canadians or permanent residents first
  • Have Authorization to Hire:

Public & Non-Profit Employers
Eligible organizations include:

  • Health authorities and agencies
  • Public post-secondary institutions
  • Government bodies (provincial, federal, municipal)
  • Registered non-profits with long-term financial stability

Important Notes

  • Employer Interviews: An Immigration Program Development Officer may request documents like financial statements, WHSCC letters, or CRA assessments.
  • Program Reviews: Frequent users of the NLPNP may be reviewed to assess nominee retention and workplace practices.
  • Using a Representative? Let OIM staff know if you’ve received help with your application.

Ineligible Employers
As per OIM’s Ineligible Employer Policy, for employers to become or remain eligible for NLPNP/AIP, they are to remain in compliance will all federal and provincial legislation. Employers may become ineligible for NLPNP/AIP if OIM becomes aware of suspected or confirmed violations relating to public bodies, including but not limited to:

Questions from employers can be forwarded to the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism (OIM) by emailing attraction@gov.nl.ca.

 

Updated: October 30, 2026