It’s official: More newcomers than ever before

It’s official and I am delighted to report that 2018 was a record year for immigration. Nova Scotia welcomed more newcomers than any previous year.

A total of 5,970 new permanent residents came to Nova Scotia, exceeding the 2016 record year high of 5,485. The 2018 figure is based on final, year-end federal calculations.

As my colleague, Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab said, “Immigrants want to come to Nova Scotia and attracting and retaining newcomers will help grow our population, strengthen our economy and revitalize our communities – benefiting all Nova Scotians.”

More than 65 per cent of the total permanent resident landings were approved through provincial economic programs and the Atlantic Immigration Pilot. Nova Scotia has the highest retention rate in the region at 71 per cent and works closely with settlement partners across the province.

“Delivering strong settlement support and services is an important part of welcoming newcomers to our province. These services help create communities where all can belong and grow,” says Jennifer Watts, CEO of Immigrant Services Association Nova Scotia.

More information can be found on the Office of Immigration site.