AIP

Eligibility

• Employer Eligibility
  • Must be a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador).
  • Employers must demonstrate a genuine need for foreign workers in their organization.
  • Employers must comply with Canadian labor laws, employment standards, and ensure good working conditions.
  • Employers must offer a full-time, permanent job to the foreign worker.
• Job Offer
  • The job offer must be full-time and non-seasonal.
  • The position must meet the labor market needs of the Atlantic region.
  • The employer must submit a job offer to the Atlantic Immigration Pilot program for consideration.
• Worker Eligibility
  • The foreign worker must have a job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces.
  • Applicants must have the necessary qualifications, skills, and experience for the offered position.
  • Workers must intend to settle in the Atlantic province where they are employed.
• Language Proficiency
  • Applicants must meet the minimum language requirements for their job, typically a CLB (Canadian Language Benchmark) score of 4 or higher in English or French.
  • Language requirements may vary depending on the occupation and the employer's needs.
• Work Experience and Education
  • Applicants must have at least one year of full-time work experience (or equivalent part-time) in the last three years for the position being offered.
  • Educational qualifications must be evaluated against Canadian standards.

How to Apply

To apply for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), applicants must first receive a valid job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador). Once the job offer is secured, candidates must submit their application online to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The application process includes completing the necessary forms and submitting required documents such as proof of employment and language proficiency. In some cases, applicants may be asked to provide additional information or attend interviews to support their application. After submission, candidates will receive updates regarding the status of their application until a decision is made.

Documents

• Employer’s Designation
  • Proof that the employer is designated under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot program.
  • A letter from the Atlantic province’s immigration office confirming the employer’s designation.
• Job Offer Details
  • A signed job offer letter that clearly outlines the position, wages, work schedule, and benefits.
  • A description of the job duties and the skills required for the position.
• Worker’s Qualifications and Experience
  • Resume or CV outlining the applicant’s educational background and work experience.
  • Copies of educational credentials, diplomas, and professional certifications.
  • Employment reference letters verifying the foreign worker’s work experience.
• Language Proficiency
  • Proof of language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF results) showing a minimum of CLB 4 in English or French, depending on the language requirement for the job.
• Proof of Intent to Settle in Atlantic Canada
  • The foreign worker must submit a letter of intent confirming their desire to live in the Atlantic province.
  • Evidence of any prior visits, family connections, or community ties to the province could be helpful.
• Immigration Documents
  • A copy of the foreign worker’s passport or travel document.
  • Copies of any previous Canadian immigration documents, work permits, or visitor visas, if applicable.
• Atlantic Immigration Pilot Endorsement
  • A certificate of endorsement from the province where the worker will be employed, which confirms the foreign worker’s eligibility for the AIP.
• Additional Documents (if applicable)
  • Police certificate or background check (if required).
  • Medical clearance or health check, depending on the worker’s current country of residence or previous travel history.

Application Fee

The application fee for the AIP is CAD $1,325 for the principal applicant, with additional fees for any family members, including spouses and dependent children, who are included in the application. Applicants must pay the required fees during the submission process to ensure the application is processed without delays. The fees cover the costs of processing the application and assessing eligibility for permanent residency. These fees are typically non-refundable, even if the application is not successful. It is important to check for any changes to the fees on the official IRCC website before applying.

Processing Time

The processing time for the AIP typically ranges from 6 to 12 months, depending on the completeness of the application and the individual circumstances of the applicant. Delays can occur if additional documentation is required or if there is a high volume of applications being processed at the time. Once the application is complete and all documents have been submitted, processing tends to proceed more efficiently. Applicants will be informed of any updates or required steps during the processing period. The total processing time may vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the case.

Advantages

The AIP offers several advantages, including a pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers, international graduates, and temporary foreign workers. This program addresses labour shortages in the Atlantic provinces and promotes economic growth by attracting talent to the region. The AIP offers applicants the opportunity to live and work in a welcoming and vibrant part of Canada, with a high quality of life and affordable living costs. It also supports family reunification, allowing applicants to bring their spouses and dependent children to Canada. The program benefits both individuals and the Atlantic communities, fostering long-term development and sustainability.