Proposals Sought for Immigration Fee Review

The fees charged to immigrants in Nova Scotia will soon be under review.

The Office of Immigration is requesting proposals for an independent review of fees under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program.

Immigration Minister Rodney MacDonald said today, Dec. 20, that immigrant families continue to apply in record numbers to live and work in the province.

"We want our fees to remain affordable, so immigrants continue to choose Nova Scotia in growing numbers," said Mr. MacDonald. "At the same time, we want to reach our goal of doubling the number of immigrants coming to Nova Scotia, in a way that remains affordable to taxpayers."

The review will examine fees charged across Canada and in the international marketplace. The review will also assess the value of the $100,000 fee paid by some immigrants to Nova Scotia businesses to cover the costs of their mentorship and management contract.

Once a contract for the independent review is awarded, the reviewer will consider written submissions from interested groups and individuals.

The request for proposals can be found on the website at www.novascotiaimmigration.com .

With this review, government is acting on a recommendation in Nova Scotia's first immigration strategy.