How the Atlantic Immigration Program Works in 2025

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a permanent immigration pathway for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who want to live and work in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island.

This employer-driven program helps local businesses hire qualified candidates and supports newcomers in settling long-term. Whether you’re applying as a worker or graduate, understanding how AIP works can help you build a clear path to permanent residence in Canada.

What Is the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?

The Atlantic Immigration Program is designed to attract and retain talent in Eastern Canada. It offers permanent residence to individuals who:

• Have a job offer from a designated employer in an Atlantic province
• Meet language, education, and work experience requirements
• Have a settlement plan for themselves and their family

This program replaced the Atlantic Immigration Pilot and became a permanent program in January 2022. It continues to serve as a critical tool for regional population growth and economic development.

Who Can Apply for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?

You may be eligible if you:

• Have at least 1 year of work experience in the last 5 years (or are an eligible recent graduate from a recognized institution in Atlantic Canada)
• Meet the minimum language and education requirements
• Receive a valid job offer from a designated employer
• Create a personalized settlement plan

To explore whether AIP or another immigration stream is right for you, visit our Permanent Residence Services page.

How the AIP Process Works

1. Get a job offer: from a designated Atlantic employer for a full-time, non-seasonal role.
2. Employer endorsement: the employer works with a settlement agency and applies to the province to endorse your job offer.
3. Apply for permanent residence: once endorsed, you submit your PR application to IRCC.

Applicants may also be eligible for a temporary work permit to begin working while their PR is being processed.

What Types of Jobs Qualify Under the AIP?

The AIP covers a wide range of skilled and intermediate-skilled jobs across National Occupational Classification (NOC) categories 0, 1, 2, 3, and 4. Common eligible roles include:

• Registered nurses and nurse aides
• Truck drivers
• Hospitality workers
• Construction trades
• Early childhood educators

To qualify, your job offer must match an approved NOC code and meet wage and duty criteria. We help clients determine eligibility through detailed NOC analysis. Visit our Work Permit Services for more.

Designated Employers in the Atlantic Provinces

Only employers approved by the provincial government can hire through the AIP. Each province maintains its own list of designated employers.

If you’re an employer hoping to join the program, we offer corporate immigration support to help with your application and compliance obligations.

Why Choose the AIP?

• No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) required
• Faster PR processing
• Supportive settlement services
• Pathway to permanent residence for the whole family

The AIP is ideal for those who want to build a life in smaller, supportive communities with opportunities for long-term success.

At Zohil-Morton Law, we provide trusted legal advice to help you navigate complex Canadian immigration processes. Still have questions? Book a consultation today with Cristina Zohil-Morton and the team at Zohil-Morton Law.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the Atlantic Immigration Program

Who is eligible for the Atlantic Immigration Program?

Skilled workers with a qualifying job offer from a designated Atlantic employer, or recent graduates from a recognized institution in Atlantic Canada, may be eligible if they meet language, education, and work experience requirements.

Is an LMIA required for the AIP?

No, the Atlantic Immigration Program does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Can I bring my family under the AIP?

Yes. AIP allows you to include your spouse or partner and dependent children in your permanent residence application.

How long does AIP processing take?

IRCC reports processing times of approximately 6 months for AIP applications, though timelines may vary based on case specifics.

Can I work while waiting for PR approval under the AIP?

Yes. You may be eligible to apply for a temporary work permit while your AIP permanent residence application is being processed.