Overview
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Immigration Pathways
New Brunswick’s immigration program that nominates skilled workers, entrepreneurs and international graduates to meet the province’s economic needs. Those nominated can apply for permanent residence through the NBPNP.
A federal immigration program for Atlantic provinces that allows New Brunswick employers to hire foreign skilled workers and international graduates. AIP candidates with a job offer receive an endorsement that leads to permanent residence.
Jobs & Employment
Entry-Level Jobs
Jobs for beginners and those starting their career
Visa Sponsorship
Jobs with employer sponsorship support
LMIA Approved
Labour Market Impact Assessment approved positions
Newcomer Jobs
Opportunities specifically for newcomers to Canada
Student Jobs
Part-time and full-time positions for students
Cost of Living
Housing in New Brunswick is highly affordable. Rents are among the lowest in Canada – a 1-bedroom in cities like Moncton or Fredericton averages ~$900–$1,000. Home prices are also relatively low, improving affordability.
Utilities are moderately priced. Heating oil is common for winter, and electricity (NB Power) rates are average. An apartment’s heating and electricity might total around $180 per month, depending on winter severity.
Transportation costs are moderate. A Moncton Codiac Transpo monthly bus pass is about $80. Vehicle insurance in NB is lower than the national average, and traffic is minimal, keeping commuting costs reasonable.
Groceries in New Brunswick are moderately priced. Some items cost slightly more due to transport (Maritimes logistics), but local produce in summer helps. A single person spends roughly $300–$350 monthly on food.
Entertainment is fairly affordable. Dining out is cheaper than in larger provinces (a dinner for two might be $80). Many community events and festivals are low-cost or free, reflecting NB’s small-city lifestyle.
Education
New Brunswick offers excellent educational opportunities with research-focused universities and technical colleges. International students are welcome and can transition to permanent residency through graduate immigration programs.
University of New Brunswick
UNB (Fredericton and Saint John) is known for computer science, engineering, and business, offering a close-knit community for international students. (~1,300 international students)
New Brunswick Community College
NBCC is a public college across New Brunswick offering practical training in trades, healthcare, IT, and business; affordable and career-oriented. (~300 international students)
Healthcare
New Brunswick has a comprehensive public healthcare system and excellent private healthcare options. Healthcare professionals are in high demand, making it an attractive destination for medical workers and their families.
Healthcare System
New Brunswick’s public healthcare (NB Medicare) covers insured services for residents. The system is challenged by an older population and out-migration of some health professionals, resulting in high demand for nurses and general practitioners. The government has initiatives to recruit internationally and to improve access in rural areas. Primary care clinics and a new medical school campus are part of the strategy to address doctor shortages.
Community & Culture
New Brunswick is known for its welcoming communities and vibrant cultural scene. Multi-cultural neighborhoods, festivals, and community organizations make it easy for newcomers to feel at home and build meaningful connections.
Bilingual Heritage
New Brunswick is Canada’s only official bilingual province (English and French). This unique cultural mix is evident in daily life – from bilingual road signs to events like the Festival Acadien. Francophone Acadian culture thrives particularly in the north of the province, while anglophone and francophone communities interact routinely, giving NB a special linguistic charm.
Community & Family
New Brunswick is known for being family-oriented and community-focused. The pace of life is slower, and people tend to prioritize family time (for example, Sundays are often quiet with stores closed or reduced hours). Neighbours greet each other, and community gatherings – from church suppers to farmers’ markets – are part of the lifestyle.
Nature & Lifestyle
Life in New Brunswick is closely connected to nature. With easy access to beaches (on the Bay of Fundy or Gulf of St. Lawrence), forests, and rivers, residents enjoy hiking, fishing, skiing and more. Even in cities, you’re never far from nature. This blend of small-town feel and natural beauty defines New Brunswick’s lifestyle.
Economy
New Brunswick's economy is diverse and resilient, spanning energy, technology, healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades. Strong economic growth and business-friendly policies create abundant opportunities for entrepreneurs and workers.
Median Household Income
Median after-tax household income in New Brunswick. It’s on the lower side nationally, reflecting the province’s smaller economy and older demographic. The cost of living is lower as well, partly offsetting lower incomes.
Employment Rate
New Brunswick’s employment rate is about 55%, one of the lower rates in Canada. An aging population (many retirees) and outmigration of young workers affect the share of people employed. The province is keen to attract immigrants and youth to boost its workforce and economic output.
Climate & Weather
New Brunswick experiences distinct seasons with cold winters and warm summers. The lower humidity levels and clear skies are features many newcomers appreciate. Outdoor recreation is popular year-round.
Summer
New Brunswick summers are warm and pleasant. Daytime highs are around 25°C, occasionally warmer inland. Humidity is moderate (more felt on the Fundy coast). Thunderstorms can occur but overall rainfall is evenly spread. With warm ocean bays, residents flock to beaches (like Parlee Beach) in summer. It’s also festival season (Acadian Day in August) and prime time for hiking in NB’s forests and parks.
Winter
Winters in New Brunswick are cold and snowy. Average January temperatures around -8 to -12°C, but can drop below -20°C on cold nights. Snowfall is significant (Fredericton ~250 cm/year) and Nor’easter storms can bring heavy snow or mixed precipitation. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy snowmobiling on extensive trails and skiing at local hills. Communities often organize winter carnivals, and ice fishing is popular on frozen lakes.