Why OIM publishes these criteria
The Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism (OIM) publishes Expression of Interest (EOI) prioritization criteria to be transparent about how we review the EOI pool and issue Invitations to Apply (ITA). OIM developed these criteria to align with best federal–provincial practices, support public trust, and provide clear direction for candidates and employers.
Making the criteria public helps candidates and employers understand provincial objectives, decide whether to submit an EOI, and improve application quality. Transparency can also reduce inquiries and complaints. The criteria are non‑exhaustive and adaptable so OIM can respond to changing labour market conditions, regional priorities, and allocation constraints. If priorities change during the year, OIM will update the prioritization criteria to meet the changing needs.
These criteria also help Newfoundland and Labrador meet economic immigration goals and support a prosperous province by prioritizing in‑demand sectors, areas aligned with federal priorities, and candidates with a strong likelihood of long‑term retention.
How we use the criteria
- The criteria guide decisions. However, they do not guarantee an invitation.
- Criteria are applied together based on program objectives and labour market evidence.
- OIM may adjust priorities during the year to reflect labour market needs and annual allocations.
What OIM may prioritize
1. Health and health‑related occupations
EOIs for health roles continue to receive strong priority due to ongoing workforce shortages and the critical role of health services in population growth and community sustainability.
2. Sales and service roles that support rural labour needs
Priority may be given when a sales and service job is in a rural or regional community and the employer faces persistent recruitment challenges. EOIs connected to the St. John’s metro area may receive lower priority for these occupations when program usage is already high.
3. Jobs in rural and regional areas
EOIs linked to communities outside major urban centres may receive priority where the role supports community sustainability and long‑term economic needs.
4. Underrepresented occupations in NL compared to other provinces
Priority may be given to occupations where provincial usage is lower, including: business and finance, science and research, and trades and transport, especially where these skills support productivity, innovation, and diversification.
5. Employers with a strong track record
EOIs may be prioritized when employers show compliance with program requirements, good retention of previous hires, and clear evidence that the vacancy impacts operations.
6. Likelihood of long‑term retention in NL
EOIs may be prioritized when an individual shows indicators of staying long term, such as community ties, previous residence in NL, family connections, or durable job opportunities.
7. Graduates with ties to NL
EOIs from graduates of Newfoundland and Labrador post‑secondary institutions may be prioritized when their skills align with priority sectors.
8. Francophone immigration objectives
EOIs that help strengthen and grow Francophone communities in Newfoundland and Labrador may receive priority.
9. Strong settlement and integration supports
EOIs may receive priority when employers or communities show strong commitment to helping newcomers settle successfully, including access to settlement supports and support for spouse employment, as demonstrated through the JVA and AIP Designation processes.
Important notes
- Meeting one or more criteria does not guarantee an invitation.
- OIM may adjust priorities during the year based on labour market changes and program allocations.
- Applicants or employers may be directed to other pathways if a different program is a better fit.
For common questions about the EOI process, see our EOI FAQs page.
For recent invitation rounds and notes, visit Invitations to Apply (ITA) Updates.
General questions can be forwarded to immigration@gov.nl.ca.
Updated: March 23, 2026