About the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), formerly the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP), is an employer-driven immigration pathway designed to address the labour needs of employers in Atlantic Canada. Launched in 2017 and made permanent in January 2022, the AIP aims to attract and retain skilled foreign workers and recent graduates in the four Atlantic provinces:
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Prince Edward Island
This program provides job opportunities and a pathway to permanent residency, helping immigrants build stable careers in Atlantic Canada.
Who is Eligible for the AIP?
The AIP is open to both skilled workers and recent graduates who meet specific eligibility requirements. Candidates can apply from within or outside Canada and must secure a job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces.
Eligibility for Skilled Workers
To qualify, skilled workers must:
- Have at least 1,560 hours of work experience (equivalent to 30 hours per week for one year) within the last five years.
- The work experience must fall under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 TEER categories 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4.
Eligibility for Recent Graduates
To be eligible as a recent graduate, applicants must:
- Hold a credential from a recognized post-secondary institution in one of the four Atlantic provinces, with a program duration of at least two years.
- Have studied full-time for the entire course duration.
- Have lived in one of the Atlantic provinces for at least 16 months during the two years before graduating.
- Hold legal status allowing them to work, study, or train while in Canada.
Benefits of the Atlantic Immigration Program
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Offers a streamlined process for skilled workers and graduates to settle permanently in Atlantic Canada.
- Job Security: Provides direct job offers from designated employers.
- Career Growth: Supports professional development and long-term stability in diverse industries.
- Community Integration: Encourages newcomers to live and thrive in Atlantic Canada’s welcoming communities.