Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a federal-provincial initiative that offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers and international graduates who wish to live and work in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

Designed to support regional economic growth and address local labour shortages, the AIP enables designated employers in Atlantic Canada to hire qualified candidates for positions they’ve been unable to fill locally. Once a job offer is secured from a designated employer, eligible applicants can apply for permanent residence. What sets the AIP apart is its focus on the specific workforce needs of the Atlantic region, making it an effective and targeted option for both employers and prospective newcomers.

To qualify for the Atlantic Immigration Program, candidates must meet the following requirements:

1. Job Offer: You must have a job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada. The job must be full-time, non-seasonal, and meet specific skill levels as defined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC).

2. Work Experience: You must have at least one year of work experience in a related field, within the last three years, or have graduated from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada.

3. Education: Candidates must have a minimum of a high school diploma equivalent to Canadian standards. If your education was obtained outside Canada, you will need to provide an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).

4. Language Proficiency: You must demonstrate proficiency in English or French, meeting the minimum language requirements for your job category.

5. Settlement Funds: You need to prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family after you arrive in Canada unless you are already living and working in Canada.

6. Endorsement by a Province: Before applying for permanent residence, you must receive an endorsement from the province where you intend to live and work. This step ensures that both the employer and the candidate meet the program’s requirements.

Begin by obtaining a job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador). The job offer must be full-time, non-seasonal, and meet the skill level requirements as outlined by the National Occupational Classification (NOC).

Once you have a valid job offer, the next step is to get an endorsement from the province where you will be working. Your employer will help you with this process by submitting your job offer and settlement plan to the provincial government for approval. The endorsement ensures that both you and your employer meet the program’s requirements.

After receiving a provincial endorsement, you can apply for permanent residence through the AIP. This application is submitted to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You will need to include your provincial endorsement letter, proof of work experience, language proficiency, educational credentials, and proof of settlement funds.

As part of the application process, you will be required to undergo medical examinations and security background checks. These checks are standard for all permanent residence applicants to ensure the safety and health of all individuals entering Canada.

Once your application is submitted, IRCC will review all the provided documents and information. Processing times can vary depending on the complexity of your case and the volume of applications. You will be notified of the decision by mail or email.