Canada's Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

What is the Atlantic Immigration Program?

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a unique, employer-driven pathway designed to help skilled foreign workers and international graduates settle in one of Canada’s four picturesque Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador.

This program is a partnership between the federal government and the provincial governments of Atlantic Canada. Its primary goal is to address labour shortages by empowering local employers to recruit and hire qualified global talent for jobs they have been unable to fill locally.

Who Can Apply? Candidate Requirements

To qualify for the AIP, you must have a valid job offer from a designated employer and meet specific criteria based on your work experience or education.

The 5-Step Application Process

1. Secure a Job Offer: Your journey begins by obtaining a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from an employer who has been officially designated by one of the Atlantic provinces.
2. Get a Settlement Plan: Once you have a job offer, you must connect with a designated settlement service provider to get a personalized settlement plan for you and your family. This plan provides resources for a smooth transition into your new community.
3. Obtain Provincial Endorsement: Your designated employer will submit an endorsement application on your behalf to the provincial government. If the province approves the application, you will receive a Certificate of Endorsement.
4. Apply for Permanent Residence: With your Certificate of Endorsement, job offer, and settlement plan, you can now submit your application for permanent residence to IRCC.
5. Optional: Get a Work Permit: If you need to start working while your PR application is being processed, you may be eligible to apply for a one-year, employer-specific work permit.

Employer Requirements

Employers are key to the AIP. To hire through this program, a business must:

• Be officially designated by the provincial government of the Atlantic province where the applicant will work.
• Demonstrate that they have tried to hire locally without success.
• Offer a full-time, non-seasonal job that meets the program's skill level requirements.
• Commit to supporting the newcomer and their family by connecting them with a settlement service provider.

Proof of Funds

You must show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family after you arrive in Canada. The amount required depends on the size of your family. However, you do not need to show proof of funds if you are already living and working in Canada with a valid work permit.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Target Designated Employers: Focus your job search on companies that are already designated under the AIP. Provincial governments often publish lists of these employers.
• Prepare Your Documents Early: Have your language test results (IELTS or CELPIP), Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), and work experience reference letters ready before you start your job search.
• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to match the job descriptions and highlight the skills needed in the Atlantic region.
• Network Actively: Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with recruiters and professionals in the Atlantic provinces.