Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

Program Overview

The Atlantic Immigration Program is a pathway to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers and international graduates from a Canadian institution who want to work and live in one of Canada's 4 Atlantic provinces.

This is an employer-driven program designed to help employers hire qualified candidates for jobs they haven't been able to fill locally.

Eligibility Requirements (Skilled Workers)

1. Work Experience

At least 1,560 hours (1 year) of experience in the last 5 years.

• TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 occupations are eligible.
• Experience can be inside or outside Canada.

2. Job Offer

You must have a job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada.

• Full-time and non-seasonal.
• TEER 0, 1, 2, 3: Offer must be for at least 1 year from the time you become a PR.
• TEER 4: Offer must be permanent (no end date).
• No LMIA is required.

3. Education

• TEER 0 or 1: Post-secondary credential (1 year or more).
• TEER 2, 3, or 4: High school diploma.
• Foreign credentials must have an ECA.

4. Language

• CLB 5: For TEER 0, 1, 2, 3.
• CLB 4: For TEER 4.

5. Settlement Funds

You must show enough money to support yourself and your family. If you are already living and working in Canada with a valid work permit, you do not need to show proof of funds.

International Graduates (Exemption)

Graduates from recognized post-secondary institutions in Atlantic Canada are exempt from the work experience requirement if they:

• Studied full-time for at least 2 years.
• Graduated in the last 24 months.
• Lived in the Atlantic province for at least 16 months during the 2 years before graduation.

Application Steps

1. Secure a job offer from a designated employer.
2. Get a needs assessment and settlement plan from a settlement service provider organization.
3. Get your job offer endorsed by the Atlantic province.
4. Submit your permanent residence application to IRCC.

Key Benefits