Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Fast Track to Permanent Residence in Canada's Atlantic Provinces
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is one of Canada's popular immigration programs designed to attract skilled workers to the Atlantic provinces.
This program covers four provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, providing an excellent opportunity to obtain Canadian permanent residence.
Atlantic Provinces
New Brunswick
A bilingual province with low cost of living and diverse job opportunities.
Nova Scotia
With Halifax as its economic and educational center.
Prince Edward Island (PEI)
The smallest province with a close-knit community and high quality of life.
Newfoundland and Labrador
With a strong oil and gas industry and pristine nature.
Benefits of AIP Program
Fast Processing
Processing time of 6 to 12 months, faster than many other programs.
Lower CRS Requirements
No need for high CRS score, just a valid Job Offer is sufficient.
Settlement Support
Employers are required to provide settlement services to you.
Direct Path to PR
After approval, you receive permanent residence directly.
Low Cost of Living
Housing and living costs in these provinces are much lower than Toronto and Vancouver.
Family Accompaniment
Your spouse and children can also obtain residence with you.
AIP Program Streams
Skilled Worker
- ✓Minimum 1 year of full-time work experience in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
- ✓Minimum high school diploma or equivalent
- ✓Minimum CLB 5 in English or French
- ✓Full-time, permanent Job Offer from a designated employer
International Graduate
- ✓Minimum 2 years of full-time study in one of the Atlantic provinces
- ✓Graduated within the last 24 months
- ✓Minimum CLB 5 in English or French
- ✓Full-time (not necessarily permanent) Job Offer from a designated employer
General AIP Requirements
1. Valid Job Offer
You must have a full-time job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces.
2. Work Experience
Minimum 1 year of full-time work experience in a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0-3).
3. Language Skills
Minimum CLB 5 for TEER 0-3 occupations and CLB 4 for TEER 4.
4. Education
Minimum Canadian high school diploma or equivalent (with ECA assessment).
5. Financial Resources
Proof of financial ability to settle yourself and family in the destination province.
6. Intent to Reside
You must have genuine intention to reside in the Atlantic province.
AIP Application Process
Find a Designated Employer
Find an employer registered in the AIP program willing to offer you a job.
Receive Job Offer
After interview and approval, receive an official Job Offer from the employer.
Provincial Endorsement
The employer obtains provincial endorsement for your employment.
Settlement Plan
Work with a settlement service provider for your settlement plan.
Submit Application to IRCC
Submit your permanent residence application along with all documents.
Receive Permanent Residence
After approval, receive your Canadian permanent residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between AIP and Express Entry?
AIP doesn't require a high CRS score and only needs a Job Offer from a designated employer. Also, AIP is specific to Atlantic provinces and has faster processing.
Can I move to another province after getting PR?
Legally yes, but you're expected to live and work in the Atlantic province for at least the first few years. Early relocation may negatively affect PR renewal or citizenship applications.
What jobs are in high demand in Atlantic provinces?
Healthcare jobs (nursing, caregiving), food and restaurant industry, IT and technology, transportation, and skilled trades are among the high-demand occupations.
Can my spouse also work?
Yes, your spouse can receive an Open Work Permit and work for any employer.
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