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Have you ever wondered what makes international students and temporary foreign workers decide to stay in New Brunswick long-term?

A new report from NB-IRDT, “Transition to Permanent Residency and Retention in New Brunswick of International Students and Temporary Foreign Workers,” sheds some light on this important question.

It turns out that connections matter—a lot. Whether it's obtaining a post-graduation work permit, participating in the International Mobility Program, or working in certain occupations, these factors play a huge role in influencing decisions to become permanent residents.

The research reveals that temporary residents, including students and temporary foreign workers, are playing an increasingly central role in shaping New Brunswick’s immigration landscape. As more of them transition to permanent residency, they are becoming a key driver of the province’s population growth and stability.

They not only help fill crucial gaps in the labour market but also support long-term retention. Interestingly, while higher rates of direct permanent residents stay in the short-term, temporary foreign workers who transition to permanent residency tend to stick around longer.

These insights help policymakers fine-tune strategies that encourage newcomers to put down roots in NB, ensuring our communities remain vibrant and thriving. After all, welcoming new residents isn’t just good for the economy—it’s great for our province’s future.