Nope: This information is not accurate. The criteria of the program is public so you cannot use an officer's answer to a question she or he may not understand correctly against the information on the web site welcomenb.ca/ content/wel-bien/en/immigrating/content/HowToImmigrate/NBProvincialNomineeProgram/ExpressEntry/Eligibility.htmlvensak said:I have asked directly that question about French language and answer was, no it is not considered. Strategic initiative was presented as a pilot project on the meeting.
But since that initiative also consiste of obligatory visit of New Brunswick and meeting with immigration officer. The honestly I do not have time for that. I am pretty sure that several provinces do seek for French speaker using easier way. So good luck for them with that idea.
Here are briefly points from Strategic initiative:
1. Age 22-55
2. Post secondary education or some trade (formation professionelle acknowledge)
3. Work experience in the in-demand sector (i think same as from express entry for NB, but that is currently rather vague)
4. Eploratory visit (as stated before)
5. Money resources (since this is demanded by express entry anyway, so no difference there).
6. French language - here it is not written the minimum level of the language. (I can only guess that it will be CBL 7 same as for the mobility francophone).
Based on the web site, all French speakers are considered a priority in the NBPNP-EELMS!! Just send your EOI and you will see!
Cheers !!