Are you dreaming of building a new life in Canada’s scenic and welcoming East Coast? The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) offers a unique opportunity to live and work in Atlantic Canada. With growing job opportunities, affordable living, and firm settlement services, Atlantic Canada is an ideal destination for those seeking long-term stability. Whether you're abroad or already in Canada, the AIP provides a fast-tracked, supported pathway to settle in communities that value newcomers.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through how the AIP works, who’s eligible, and how to get started on your journey.

What is the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?

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The AIP is a federal initiative that provides a pathway to Canadian permanent residency for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who wish to live and work in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces:

  • Nova Scotia,
  • New Brunswick,
  • Prince Edward Island, or
  • Newfoundland and Labrador.

This employer-driven program addresses regional labor shortages by allowing designated employers to hire qualified candidates for positions they have been unable to fill locally. Applicants must be eligible for a valid job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada. The program is open to skilled workers with relevant work experience and recent graduates from recognized post-secondary institutions in Atlantic Canada.

Applicants can live abroad or already reside in Canada as temporary residents. The AIP also includes support for settlement and integration, helping newcomers and their families transition successfully into their new communities.

How Can I Apply for the AIP?

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To apply for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), you must meet specific eligibility criteria for work experience, education, language ability, and financial support.

Who is Eligible to Apply for the AIP?

The program is designed for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who wish to settle permanently in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces.

Work Experience

Work experience is required unless you are an international graduate. You must have worked at least 1,560 paid hours in the past five years, equal to one year of full-time work at 30 hours per week. This experience must be in a valid occupation classified under TEER 0 to 4 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. It must reflect most of the main duties listed for your specific job code. Work experience must be legal, paid, and accumulated over at least 12 months.

International Graduates

For international students who have recently graduated from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada, the work experience requirement for the AIP is waived under specific conditions. These graduates must have completed at least a two-year program of full-time study. They must have resided in one of the Atlantic provinces for at least 16 months out of the 24 months before their graduation.

Educational Requirements

The educational qualifications necessary for the Atlantic Immigration Program are linked to the job offer's Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) category. For positions classified under TEER 0 or 1, applicants must possess a Canadian post-secondary degree, diploma, or certificate.

You can present a foreign educational qualification equivalent to a Canadian standard through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). For job offers falling under TEER categories 2, 3, or 4, the educational requirement is a Canadian high school diploma or its equivalent.

Language Proficiency

Demonstrating adequate language proficiency in either English or French is a fundamental requirement for the AIP. The minimum acceptable Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) or Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) score varies depending on the TEER category of the offered job. For positions in TEER categories 0, 1, 2, and 3, applicants must achieve a minimum CLB/NCLC 5 score in all four language abilities: reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

For job offers classified under TEER category 4, a slightly lower minimum score of CLB/NCLC 4 is required across all four language abilities. It is important to note that the results of your designated language proficiency test (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP, TEF Canada, TCF Canada) must be valid and less than two years old at the time of your application submission.

Get a Job offer in Atlantic Canada

To participate in the AIP, securing a job offer from a designated employer in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces is essential. Provincial governments approve designated employers to hire foreign workers under the AIP. You can find job listings and employer directories on the official websites of each province.

Your job offer must meet specific criteria for validity under the AIP. This criteria includes the following.

  • A full-time non-seasonal job offer, providing consistent, year-round employment.
  • The job must suit your qualifications, and you must be able to perform the duties.
  • For employment in NOC 2021 TEER 0–3 categories, the offer must last at least one year from when you become a permanent resident.
  • For TEER 4, the offer must be permanent, with no set end date.
  • The job cannot come from a company where you or your spouse/common-law partner hold a majority stake.
  • Your job offer should match or exceed the skill level of your past work experience unless you are an international graduate from an Atlantic institution. Some exceptions apply, especially in the healthcare sector.

Once you receive a valid job offer, your employer will provide the Offer of Employment to a Foreign National [IMM 0157] form. You must sign and use this form to develop your settlement plan and apply for permanent residence. Always verify the employer’s designation status or encourage them to apply if they’re not yet designated.

Get Your Documents Ready

Preparing your documents early is necessary to avoid delays in your AIP application. Begin gathering all required documents as soon as possible to ensure a smooth and timely application process for permanent residence.

  • Language Test: You must take an approved language test, even if you studied in Canada. Your test results must be included with your application and be less than two years old at the time of submission.
  • ECA: If you completed your education outside Canada, you need both an ECA report and a copy of your educational credential. This assessment shows how your education compares to Canadian standards.
  • Proof of Funds: You must demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Canada unless you are already working in Canada with a valid work permit.
  • Other Documents: Use the official document checklist to ensure you have everything required before submitting your application.
  • Settlement Plan: After receiving a job offer from a designated employer, you must obtain a free settlement plan from a recognized service provider. This plan helps you and your family adjust to life in Atlantic Canada.
  • Certificate of Endorsement: Your employer will request this from the province once your settlement plan is ready. Wait until you receive this certificate before submitting your application for permanent residence.

Apply for Canadian Permanent Residence

To apply for permanent residence under the AIP, you must complete the process online. Since October 21, 2022, all AIP applications have been submitted through the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal. If you cannot apply online due to a disability or other need, alternative formats (paper, braille, large print) can be requested. Here are the steps you must follow to apply.

Step 1: Create an Account

Sign in or create an account on the application portal. Review the IMM 0154 Instruction Guide for eligibility, fees, and instructions.

Step 2: Complete the Required Forms

You’ll need to fill out several digital forms (IMM 0008, IMM 5669, IMM 5406, IMM 5562) and upload additional PDFs like the Document Checklist (IMM 0155). Forms related to common-law declarations or minors must also be included, if applicable. Your designated employer must complete and sign the Offer of Employment (IMM 0157), which you’ll then sign and upload.

Step 3: Pay Your Fees

Pay all required fees online, including the biometrics fee. You’ll receive a letter with instructions on where and how to give your biometrics in person.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Ensure your application is complete, all documents are uploaded, and your name is typed to sign the form electronically. Incomplete applications will be rejected and must be resubmitted.

What Should I Do After Applying for the AIP?

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After submitting your Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) application, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will review it for completeness. They will check if you:

  • Filled out all required forms correctly,
  • Paid your processing fee,
  • Met eligibility requirements, and
  • Included all necessary documents.

You may be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo), submit additional documents, or attend an interview. IRCC may also request your Right of Permanent Residence Fee if it hasn’t been paid yet. It’s essential to keep your contact information current to avoid delays. Report any changes, such as a new address, phone number, or family status, using the IRCC Web Form.

You’ll also need a medical exam for yourself and your family, even if they’re not immigrating. IRCC will assess your admissibility based on health, security, and background checks. If approved, you’ll receive confirmation. If refused, a new application will be required.

FAQs

Can I Bring My Family With Me if I Immigrate Through the AIP?

Yes, the Atlantic Immigration Program allows you to include your eligible family members in your permanent residence application. This typically includes your spouse or common-law partner and your dependent children. You will need to provide the necessary documentation and information for your family members as part of your application.

What Support is Available to Newcomers Under This Program?

The AIP emphasizes the importance of newcomer settlement and integration. Designated employers are required to connect candidates with designated settlement service provider organizations. These organizations work with the newcomer and their family to create a personalized settlement plan that addresses their needs upon arrival, helping them integrate into their new community and workplace.

Can I Apply for a Temporary Work Permit While My Application is Being Processed?

In some circumstances, you may be eligible to apply for a temporary work permit to begin working in Atlantic Canada. At the same time, your permanent residence application through the AIP is being processed. This option is available to candidates with a valid job offer from a designated employer and receiving a provincial endorsement.