Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills (Head Office) – St. John’s, NL

Immigration and Multiculturalism Headquarters

Located on the 3rd Floor of the West Block in the Confederation Building, this office serves as the headquarters for the Department of Immigration, Population Growth and Skills (IPGS). While the department oversees broad employment files, this specific location is the nerve center for the province’s immigration strategy, multiculturalism policies, and population growth initiatives. It operates under the direction of the Minister to administer the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).

Immigration Program Administration

This office is responsible for processing and assessing applications from foreign nationals wishing to settle in the province. Key functions include:

• Nomination Processing: Immigration Program Officers review applications for the Skilled Worker, International Graduate, and Priority Skills categories, issuing nominations that allow applicants to apply for permanent residence.
• Employer Endorsement: Staff assess local employers to ensure they meet the criteria to hire international workers under the Atlantic Immigration Program.
• Settlement Policy: The department creates and manages policies that fund settlement agencies (like the Association for New Canadians), ensuring newcomers have access to language training and housing support.

Multiculturalism and Diversity

The office houses the division responsible for promoting multiculturalism and eliminating barriers to full participation in society. This includes the administration of the Multiculturalism Grant Program, which provides funding to community groups for cultural events and anti-racism initiatives.

Facility Access and Protocol

As part of the main provincial government complex, access to the Confederation Building West Block is controlled. Visitors typically require an appointment to meet with immigration officers or policy analysts. Security screening is in effect at the main entrances. This location focuses on high-level case processing and policy rather than the drop-in career services offered at the Duckworth Street satellite office.