The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) assists skilled foreign workers and international graduates with settling in Canada’s Atlantic provinces—Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. This employer-driven program partners with designated employers to address labor shortages and support regional economic growth. AIP emphasizes employer involvement, requiring designated employers to offer job opportunities to eligible candidates. It encourages long-term settlement in Atlantic communities, providing a pathway to Canadian permanent residency.
By attracting skilled professionals, AIP strengthens the region’s economy and cultural diversity. Its smoothed-out process guarantees proficient cooperation between businesses, applicants, and immigration specialists, fostering sustainable growth in Atlantic Canada.
By attracting skilled professionals, AIP strengthens the region’s economy and cultural diversity. Its smoothed-out process guarantees proficient cooperation between businesses, applicants, and immigration specialists, fostering sustainable growth in Atlantic Canada.
A key qualification requirement is work experience, with candidates requiring no less than 1,560 hours in the most recent five years. This can be acquired through full-time or part-time business, excluding volunteering and unpaid internships. Work experience must align with the NOC 2021 TEER categories (TEER 0 to TEER 4) and match the specified duties and responsibilities in the NOC.
International graduates may qualify for exemptions if they hold a degree, diploma, certificate, or trade certification from a recognized post-secondary institution in an Atlantic province. They must have studied full-time, lived in the region for at least 16 months before graduation, and held a valid visa or permit for work, study, or training in Canada.
Educational requirements depend on the TEER category of the job offer. TEER 0 or 1 requires at least a one-year Canadian post-secondary credential, while TEER 2, 3, or 4 requires a Canadian high school diploma or equivalent. Foreign credentials must be assessed through an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to confirm equivalency.
Before applying for permanent residence, gather these essential documents:
The Atlantic Immigration Program handling time is roughly a half year, excluding the time needed for biometrics. Applicants should plan accordingly, as processing times may vary based on individual circumstances.
To participate in the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), you must secure a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island.
The job offer must meet specific duration criteria based on the NOC 2021 category and align with or exceed your qualifying work experience. Exceptions apply in the healthcare sector, where NOC 32101 and NOC 31301 experience may qualify for NOC 33102 and NOC 44101 job offers.
To apply for permanent residence through the AIP:
Obtain a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada. Ensure it meets skill level requirements. The employer will provide an Offer of Employment and endorse your application.
Collect key documents, including language test results, an Educational Credential Assessment (if studied outside Canada), and proof of funds. Use the checklist to prevent delays in your application.
Create a settlement plan with a service provider while your employer obtains provincial endorsement, leading to a Certificate of Endorsement.
Submit your permanent residence application online, pay the required fees, and provide biometrics. The processing time is approximately 6 months. You may also apply for a temporary work permit for immediate employment.
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