Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a permanent pathway to immigration for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who want to live and work in one of Canada's 4 Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
6–12 months
Atlantic Canada
CA$1,365
May 2026
Overview
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a permanent pathway to immigration for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who want to live and work in one of Canada's 4 Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
Best for: Employer-driven pathway for skilled workers and graduates in Atlantic Canada
Program Overview
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is an employer-driven permanent residence pathway for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who want to work and live in one of Canada's four Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Unlike Express Entry, the AIP requires a job offer from a designated employer before you can apply.
Key Benefits
- Direct pathway to permanent residence — not a temporary program
- No Express Entry profile needed
- Employer-driven — your employer supports your application
- Settlement plan support to help you and your family integrate
- Specific streams for international graduates from Atlantic institutions
- Growing economies in the Atlantic provinces with strong demand for skilled workers
Eligibility
You must meet every required item below. A licensed consultant can confirm your fit in minutes.
Work experience
- Work Experience1 year (skilled) or Atlantic graduate
Skilled workers: 1 year of full-time (or equivalent) work experience in the last 5 years in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3. International graduates from recognized Atlantic institutions may be exempt.
Language
- Language ProficiencyCLB 4-5
CLB 5 for NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 positions. CLB 4 for NOC TEER 4 positions.
Education
- EducationHigh school+ (ECA for foreign credentials)
Minimum Canadian high school equivalent. International credentials require an ECA. International graduates need a credential from a recognized Atlantic post-secondary institution (minimum 2-year program).
Process
Typical processing time: 6–12 months.
Get a Job Offer from a Designated Employer
Find and receive a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from an employer designated to hire through the AIP.
1–6 monthsGet a Settlement Plan
Connect with a designated settlement service provider organization to develop a settlement plan for you and your family.
1–4 weeksGet a Provincial Endorsement
Your employer applies for provincial endorsement on your behalf. The province reviews and endorses your application.
1–3 monthsApply for Permanent Residence
Submit your application for permanent residence to IRCC with all required documents within 180 days of receiving endorsement.
1–4 weeksProcessing & Decision
IRCC processes your application. Current target processing time is approximately 6-12 months.
6–12 months
Fees & costs
Paid to the government and third parties. Our professional fee is separate and fixed upfront.
| Fee | Per | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Federal PR Processing Fee | applicant | CA$1,365 |
| Right of Permanent Residence Fee | applicant | CA$515 |
| Biometrics Fee | applicant | CA$85 |
Government fees change from time to time — we confirm the current amounts before you pay anything.
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) FAQs
The AIP covers four Atlantic Canadian provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
No. The AIP is employer-driven — you must first find a designated employer who is willing to hire you and submit an endorsement application.
A designated employer is an employer in an Atlantic province that has been approved by the provincial government to hire foreign workers through the AIP. They must demonstrate they couldn't find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident for the position.
Get expert help with Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- First consultation free (30 min)
- A licensed RCIC prepares and reviews your file
- One fixed fee — no surprise invoices
Government fees are paid separately.
Official program page
canada.ca
Fixed-fee help
Services for this program
Pick the help you need. Every service is handled by a licensed RCIC for one fixed fee.
Related reading
News and plain-English guides on Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) from our licensed consultants.
Free consultation
Is Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) right for you? Ask a licensed consultant — free
Get an honest read on your options and a fixed quote for the work. No obligation.
- Your best pathway, explained in plain language
- A fixed fee and timeline before you commit
- A personal document checklist
- In English, Gujarati or Hindi