Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) — What It Is and How To Apply
Mar 7, 2025
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) connects employers in Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick with foreign candidates ready to settle in Eastern Canada. If you meet education, language, and work experience requirements and have a valid offer from a designated employer, the AIP can help you secure permanent residence. This blog explains eligibility, the step-by-step application process, relevant processing times and fees, plus practical tips for success.
What is the Atlantic Immigration Program?
The AIP is a collaborative initiative between Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the four Atlantic provinces. It addresses demographic and labor market needs by allowing designated employers to hire foreign workers without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The program emphasizes regional retention through settlement planning and provincial endorsement.
Employer-Driven — Employers are pre-approved (“designated”), allowing them to offer positions to foreign workers.
Settlement Support — Applicants must obtain a settlement plan from a recognized service provider to ensure successful integration.
Provincial Endorsement — Each province endorses candidates, confirming the job offer and settlement plan.
Why This Program is Essential for the Atlantic Region
Aging Populations
Rural and coastal communities rely on newcomers to maintain services, businesses, and essential public infrastructure.
Economic Expansion
Industries such as healthcare, retail, agriculture, seafood processing, and hospitality require a steady workforce to sustain growth.
Retention Efforts
The AIP’s settlement plan requirement encourages newcomers to stay in the region long term.
Community Revitalization
Fresh talent supports schools, local entrepreneurship, and a thriving cultural life, bolstering smaller towns and cities.
Who is Eligible for the AIP?
Job Offer
Full-time, non-seasonal, at least one year in duration.
Must come from an employer designated by an Atlantic province.
The occupation may be in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 occupation, depending on the employer’s labor need.
Work Experience or Local Graduation
Skilled Workers: Minimum one year of work experience (within the last five years) in an occupation matching the job offer’s skill level.
International Graduates: Those who completed at least a two-year credential at a recognized Atlantic institution can be exempt from the work experience requirement if all other conditions are met.
Language Proficiency
Must meet Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) requirements (CLB 5 or 4 depending on NOC TEER).
Valid test results from IELTS, CELPIP (English), or TEF, TCF (French).
Education
Minimum Canadian high school diploma or foreign equivalent (requires an Educational Credential Assessment if obtained outside Canada).
Settlement Plan
Must collaborate with a settlement service provider to design a plan detailing housing, language supports, and other integration resources.
Provincial Endorsement
The province endorses the application once the job offer and settlement plan are approved.
Admissibility
Applicants and accompanying family must pass medical and background checks.
Step-by-Step Overview of How to Apply
Check Eligibility
Confirm you have the required work experience or have graduated from a local institution, language scores, and education level.
Obtain a Valid Job Offer
Find a position with a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces.
Get a Settlement Plan
Contact an approved settlement service provider to develop a personalized plan for you (and your family if included).
Apply for Provincial Endorsement
Submit your endorsement application, including language results, educational credentials, settlement plan, and job offer. If approved, you receive an endorsement certificate.
Submit Permanent Residence Application
Complete IRCC forms, pay the fees, undergo medical exams and police checks, and attach the endorsement certificate.
Wait for Decision
IRCC processes the application. Successful applicants receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), after which they can land and begin working.
Processing Time and Fees
Processing Time: 9 months (excluding the time it takes to give biometrics).
Application Fees: From CAD $1,525 for the principal applicant.
Fees and processing times are subject to change, so confirm current details on the IRCC website before applying.
Tips to Succeed With the AIP
Select a Supportive Employer
Build a relationship with an employer committed to your transition, increasing your likelihood of a smooth endorsement.
Organize Documents Meticulously
Provide clear reference letters, valid language test results, and educational proof. Missing documents can delay processing.
Communicate with Settlement Providers
A comprehensive settlement plan demonstrates your commitment to living and working in the Atlantic region.
Monitor Official Updates
Program details or intake capacities can shift. Stay informed through IRCC’s announcements.
Consider Other Provincial Nominee Programs
If you do not meet AIP requirements, investigate related provincial nominee streams in the same region.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the AIP
Q1: Do I need an LMIA for the job offer?
No. Designated employers under AIP do not require an LMIA.
Q2: Can I include my family?
Yes. You can include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your PR application, each subject to applicable fees.
Q3: What if my job offer is revoked after endorsement?
You must maintain a valid job offer when applying for PR. Contact provincial authorities or IRCC if the offer changes or ends prematurely.
Q4: Do I need settlement funds if I already live in the province?
Applicants employed in the Atlantic region sometimes do not need separate proof of funds. Verify your specific case.
Q5: Can I move to another province after landing?
The AIP is designed for you to settle in the endorsing province. Leaving before contributing to that region may raise questions with IRCC.
Final Thoughts on the Atlantic Immigration Program
The Atlantic Immigration Program is a direct path to strengthening and growing Canada’s Eastern provinces. With a designated job offer, a thorough settlement plan, and provincial endorsement, you can secure permanent residency and establish a life in coastal communities known for their welcoming spirit and wide-ranging opportunities. By meeting all eligibility criteria and preparing your application carefully, you stand a strong chance of success under the AIP.
Resources
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) official page on Atlantic Immigration Program AIP Eligibility Job Offer Requirements Steps to Follow After Your Application is Approved
