The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP) is an employer-driven immigration program designed to help skilled workers and international graduates settle in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces: Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. The program aims to address labor shortages in the region by allowing employers to hire foreign talent quickly and efficiently.
1. Key Features of the AIPP
- Employer-Driven Process: Applicants must have a valid job offer from a designated employer.
- No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Required: Unlike other immigration pathways, employers do not need an LMIA to hire foreign workers.
- Faster Processing Times: Applications are processed within six months.
- Pathway to Permanent Residence: Successful candidates and their families can obtain permanent residency in Canada.
2. Eligibility Requirements
For Skilled Workers:
- Work Experience: At least one year of full-time, non-seasonal work experience in the last three years.
- Job Offer: A full-time, permanent job offer from a designated employer in an eligible occupation.
- Education: A high school diploma or higher (foreign credentials must be assessed).
- Language Proficiency: Minimum CLB 4 in English or French.
- Settlement Funds: Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and your family unless you are already working in Canada.
For International Graduates:
- Education: A post-secondary diploma or degree from a recognized institution in one of the Atlantic provinces.
- Study Duration: Must have completed at least a two-year program in the region.
- Job Offer: A valid job offer from a designated employer.
- No Work Experience Required: Unlike skilled workers, recent graduates do not need prior work experience.
3. How to Apply
- Find a Designated Employer
- Search for jobs with employers approved under the AIPP in the Atlantic provinces.
- Employers provide a job offer and a settlement plan to support your move.
- Obtain an Endorsement Letter
- The employer submits an application for endorsement to the provincial government.
- If approved, you receive an endorsement letter, which is required for your PR application.
- Submit Your Permanent Residence Application
- Apply through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Processing typically takes six months or less.
- Move to Canada
- Once approved, you can move to Canada with your family and start working.
- You may also qualify for a temporary work permit while waiting for PR approval.
4. Occupations in Demand
The AIPP focuses on industries facing labor shortages, including:
- Healthcare: Nurses, medical assistants, personal support workers
- Hospitality: Chefs, food service supervisors, hotel managers
- Manufacturing & Trades: Electricians, welders, truck drivers
- IT & Technology: Software developers, data analysts
- Education & Social Services: Early childhood educators, social workers
5. Benefits of the AIPP
- Easier Job Access: Employers actively hire foreign workers.
- Lower Language Requirements: Minimum CLB 4, which is lower than Express Entry.
- No LMIA Required: Faster and simpler employer recruitment process.
- Faster Processing: PR applications take approximately six months.
- Family Inclusion: Spouses and dependents can accompany the main applicant and also apply for work or study permits.