The Atlantic Immigration Program

Since 2017, thousands of job offers in sectors such as health care, accommodations, food services, and manufacturing have driven community growth and contributed to a retention rate above 90%. 

By connecting employers with qualified candidates, the program addresses regional labor market needs while supporting newcomers as they settle and integrate into their new communities. Now a permanent initiative with enhanced employer support and refined requirements, it continues to bolster local economies and attract the best and brightest to the region.  

This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the application process, eligibility criteria, and key steps to help you navigate your journey to permanent residence in Atlantic Canada. 

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What is the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a fast-track immigration pathway that allows skilled workers and international graduates to immigrate to Atlantic Canada, which includes Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. This program helps designated employers in these provinces fill critical labor shortages while providing newcomers with a clear path to permanent residence and settlement support to successfully integrate into their new communities.

How Does the Atlantic Immigration Program Work?

The AIP is an employer-driven immigration program, meaning that applicants must first secure a valid job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada (that is Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick or Newfoundland and Labrador). After receiving provincial endorsement, candidates can apply for permanent residence, often benefiting from faster processing times compared to other immigration programs.

By aligning with local labor market needs, the Atlantic Immigration Program creates long-term job security for newcomers while helping employers find qualified workers. Whether you’re a skilled professional or an international graduate looking to establish your future in Atlantic Canada, the AIP offers a direct and efficient immigration pathway.

What You’ll Need to Qualify for the Atlantic Immigration Program 

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is designed to welcome skilled workers and international graduates to Atlantic Canada. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:

1. A Job Offer from a Designated Employer

You must have a job lined up with an employer approved by one of the Atlantic provinces. Here’s what the job offer should look like: 

• Full-time (at least 30 hours per week). 
• Fits into a NOC 2021 TEER category 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4) 
• Lasts at least one year for TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 jobs, or is permanent (no end date) for TEER 4 jobs. 
• Matches or exceeds the skill level of your past work experience (unless you’re an international graduate). 
• Comes with a provincial endorsement before you apply for permanent residence. 

2. Have Sufficient Previous Work Experience or International Graduate Status 

For Skilled Workers:

You need at least 1,560 hours of paid work (about one year of full-time work at 30 hours per week) in the last five years.

• Can be full-time or part-time, inside or outside Canada.
• Work while studying counts if it was within permitted hours. 
• Must have been legal work if done in Canada as a temporary resident. 
• Self-employment, unpaid internships, and volunteer work hours don’t count.

How Job Offers Match Work Experience by TEER Category:

Your job offer should align with your past experience (unless you’re an international graduate). Here’s a quick guide on what that means : 

TEER 0 job offer > Experience must be in a TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 occupation.  

TEER 1 job offer > Experience must be in a TEER 1, 2, 3, or 4 occupation. 

TEER 2 job offer > Experience must be in a TEER 2, 3, or 4 occupation. 

TEER 3 job offer > Experience must be in a TEER 3 or 4 occupation. 

TEER 4 job offer > Experience must be in a TEER 4 occupation. 

For International Graduates:

No work experience is needed if you graduated from a recognized post-secondary school in Atlantic Canada, as long as:

• Your program was at least two years long.  
• You studied full-time the whole time. 
• You lived in Atlantic Canada for at least 16 months in the two years before graduating. 
• You had a valid permit or visa to study in Canada. 

3. Have a Minimum Level of Education

Your educational background must meet specific requirements depending on the NOC TEER category of your job offer: 

• For TEER 0 or 1 job offers > You need a one-year post-secondary credential or higher from Canada (or an equivalent qualification from outside Canada). 
• For TEER 2, 3, or 4 job offers > You must have a Canadian high school diploma or an equivalent foreign credential. 

If you studied outside Canada, you need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to confirm that your education meets or exceeds Canadian requirements. The ECA must: 

• Be less than five years old at the time of application 
• Confirm that your credential was obtained within 24 months before you apply for permanent residence 

4. Have a Minimum Level of Language 

You must meet the minimum language proficiency based on your job’s NOC TEER category in either: 

• Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) (for English) 
• Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) (for French) 

Minimum Language Scores Required: 

• CLB/NCLC 5 – TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 jobs 
• CLB/NCLC 4 – TEER 4 jobs 

You must submit official language test results from an approved testing organization, and the results must be less than two years old when you apply. 

5. Have Sufficient Funds to Support Yourself and Your Family In Canada

You need enough money to support yourself and your family when you arrive, unless you’re already living and working in Canada with a valid work permit. The amount depends on your family size (including you, your spouse/partner, and dependent kids—even if they’re not coming with you): 

1 person: $3,672 CAD 

2 people: $4,572 CAD 

3 people: $5,620 CAD 

 4 people: $6,824 CAD 

 5 people: $7,740 CAD 

 6 people: $8,729 CAD 

 7 people: $9,718 CAD 

 Each extra family member: $989 CAD 

How to Find a Designated Employer for Atlantic Immigration 

To apply for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), you must secure a valid, full-time job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador. These employers are approved by the provincial governments to hire skilled workers and international graduates under the program. Steps to find a designated employer: 

Check Official Government Lists: Each Atlantic province publishes a list of designated employers who are authorized to hire foreign workers through the AIP. Visit the official immigration websites of the provinces to access these lists: 

• New Brunswick 
• Newfoundland and Labrador 
• Nova Scotia 
• Prince Edward Island

Search Job Portals for AIP-Eligible Jobs: Many designated employers post job openings on major job boards, such as: 

• Job Bank Canada Indeed Canada 
• LinkedIn Jobs 
• Provincial job boards 

Attend Job Fairs & Recruitment Events: Provincial governments organize virtual and in-person job fairs where designated employers look for candidates. 

• Sign up for Atlantic Canada job fairs hosted by the provinces and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). 

Network with Employers & Industry Associations: Reach out to industry groups and chambers of commerce in Atlantic Canada.  

Required Documents for Your Atlantic Immigration Application 

To apply to the AIP, you will need to provide all the necessary supporting documents including (but not limited to):  

Identity and Civil Status Documents 

• Valid passport (biographical page) 
• Birth certificates (applicant and family members) 
• Marriage certificate (if applicable) 
• Legal name change documents (if applicable) 

Job Offer Documentation 

• Offer of Employment (IMM 0157) (completed and signed) 
• Signed employment contract 

Provincial Endorsement 

• Certificate of Endorsement (issued by the Atlantic province) 

Language Proficiency 

• Approved language test results (less than two years old). The accepted tests are:
  • English: IELTS General, CELPIP General, PTE Core
  • French: TEF Canada, TCF Canada

Educational Credentials 

• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) (if education was completed outside Canada) with a copy of the original certificate and transcripts 
• Canadian diplomas, degrees, or certificates and transcripts (if applicable) 

Proof of Work Experience 

• Reference letters from previous employers 
• Pay stubs or tax documents 

Proof of Settlement Funds (if required) 

• Recent bank statements or financial certificates 

Police Certificates 

• Background checks (for each country where you’ve lived for six+ months since age 18) 

Medical Examination 

• Medical report from an approved panel physician 

Photographs 

• Immigration-approved photo for each family member 

Settlement Plan 

Completed Application Forms 

• Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008) 
• Schedule A – Background/Declaration (IMM 5669) (main applicant and any dependent over the age of 18) 
• Additional Family Information (IMM 5406) (main applicant and any dependent over the age of 18) 
• Supplementary Information – Your travels (IMM 5562) (main applicant and any dependent over the age of 18)

Payment of Processing Fees 

• Government processing fees, the right of permanent residence fee and biometric fee for you and accompanying family members.

 Any document that is not in English or French must be translated by a certified translator.  

Application Costs for the Atlantic Immigration Program 

As of April 30, 2024, the application fees for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) are as follows: 

Application Fees

Principal Applicant: 

Processing Fee: $950 CAD
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): $575 CAD
Total: $1,525 CAD 

Accompanying Spouse or Common-Law Partner: 

Processing Fee: $950 CAD
Right of Permanent Residence Fee: $575 CAD
Total: $1,525 CAD 

Dependent Child:

Processing Fee: $260 CAD per child
Right of Permanent Residence Fee: Not applicable
Total: $260 CAD per child

Biometrics Fees

Individual Applicant: $85 CAD
Family (2 or more people applying together): $170 CAD

There will also be other fees associated with gathering the necessary supporting documents to apply.  

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Atlantic Immigration 

Applying for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) can help you achieve permanent residence in one of Canada’s Atlantic provinces. Here’s a short guide to the application process:

Secure a Job Offer from a Designated Employer

• Find Employment: Obtain a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from an employer designated by the Atlantic province where you intend to reside.

Obtain a Provincial Endorsement

• Settlement Plan: Work with a recognized settlement service provider to develop your settlement plan.
• Employer Submission: Give your settlement plan to your employer, who will then apply for a provincial endorsement on your behalf.
• Receive Endorsement: Wait for your provincial endorsement certificate.

Prepare and Submit Your Permanent Residence Application

• Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including your job offer, endorsement certificate, language proficiency results, educational credentials, and proof of funds (if applicable).
• Complete Application Forms: Fill out the required forms accurately.
• Submit Application: Apply online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal, ensuring all information is complete to avoid processing delays.

Provide Biometrics

• Biometric Fee: Pay the biometric fee when submitting your application.
• Biometric Collection: When you receive a biometric instruction letter from IRCC, provide your fingerprints and photograph within 30 days at an authorized collection center.

Optional: Apply for a Work Permit

• Prepare and submit your work permit application.

Application Processing and Decision

• IRCC Review: Your application will be assessed for eligibility and completeness.
• Additional Information: Respond promptly to any requests for further information or documentation.
• Decision Notification: Receive a decision on your application. If approved, you’ll be issued the necessary documents to travel to Canada.

Arrival in Canada

• Travel Documents: Ensure you have your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if required, a permanent resident visa.
• Port of Entry: Present your documents to the Canada Border Services Agency upon arrival for verification and admission into Canada OR activate your status from within Canada.

Including Family Members in Your Atlantic Immigration Application 

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) allows applicants to include eligible family members in their application for permanent residence. Eligible family members include:

• Your Spouse or Common-Law Partner
• Dependent Children
• Your spouse or partner’s dependent children

Even if your family members are not immigrating with you, you must still declare them on your application. 

Each family member will need to provide the necessary supporting documents, and additional fees may apply.  

Who Is Likely to Succeed in The Atlantic Immigration Application 

Successful applicants tend to have these traits: 

• In-Demand Skills: Candidates whose skills and work experience align with regional labor market needs. 

• Strong Language Proficiency: Meeting or exceeding the required language standards. 

• Strong Educational Background: Educational credentials that meet Canadian equivalency standards. 

• Comprehensive Documentation: A complete and well-prepared application that covers all required documents. 

• Community Commitment: Demonstrating a genuine intent to settle, integrate, and contribute to the local economy. 

A clear, well-supported application that meets these criteria is more likely to succeed in securing permanent residence. 

Why Choose AIP Over Other Immigration Programs?

The Atlantic Immigration Program offers several unique advantages over other Canadian immigration pathways: 

Faster Processing Times – AIP applications are prioritised and typically processed within six months, whereas some other programs take longer. 

No Express Entry CRS Score Required – Unlike Express Entry, AIP does not use a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), meaning applicants do not compete for points to be invited to apply. 

Job Offer Offers Direct Pathway to Permanent Residence – A valid job offer from a designated employer is the key requirement, providing a clear pathway to permanent residence. 

Lower Language & Education Requirements – AIP requires a lower language proficiency score (CLB 4 or 5) and lower education levels compared to Express Entry’s Federal Skilled Worker Program, making it more accessible. 

Family Members Can Be Included – Spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children can immigrate with the applicant. 

No Proof of Settlement Funds for Those Working in Canada – If an applicant already has a valid work permit and is working in Canada, they do not need to prove settlement funds. In the event settlement funds are needed, the thresholds are substantially lower than other federal immigration programs. 

Support for Settlement & Integration – Applicants must complete a settlement plan with an approved service provider, ensuring resources and guidance for a smooth transition into their new community. 

What to Expect After Applying for Atlantic Immigration 

After your application is submitted, the process continues as follows: 

• Review Process: Immigration officers review your application to ensure that all eligibility and documentation requirements are met. 

• Additional Requests: You may be contacted for further documentation or to attend an interview. 

• Decision Notification: Once a decision is made, you will receive confirmation of your permanent residence along with instructions on the next steps. 

• Settlement Support: Approved applicants are provided with guidance and resources to help them settle successfully in one of Canada’s Atlantic provinces. 

Staying informed about your application status and responding promptly to any requests is crucial for a smooth transition. 

How Many AIP Applications Will IRCC Accept?

There is no cap on the number of Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) applications that IRCC will accept. However, according to the 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan, IRCC plans to admit 5,000 AIP permanent residents per year—including the principal applicant and their family members.

Getting a Work Permit through the Atlantic Immigration Program 

If you meet the requirements to apply for permanent residence through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), you may also be eligible for a two-year temporary work permit while your application is being processed. 

To qualify for a work permit, you must have 

• a job offer from a designated employer that meets the requirements of the program 
• a referral letter from the Atlantic province where you’ll be working 
• Proof that you qualify for the AIP including language, education and work experience (unless you’re an international graduate). 

The work permit issued under AIP will be employer-specific, meaning you can only work for the employer who offered you the job. This allows you to begin working while your permanent residence application is being processed. If you have an accompanying spouse/common-law partner, they may also apply for an open work permit.