The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is structured to meet the requirements of local employers and communities.
Its objective is to attract more newcomers to the Atlantic Canada region. This employer-driven initiative enables designated local employers to identify, recruit, and retain global talent.
Additionally, it emphasises the importance of supporting population growth, developing a skilled workforce, and enhancing employment rates throughout the region.
What is the Atlantic Immigration Program?
The Atlantic Immigration Pilot is a streamlined immigration initiative that permits employers in Canada's four Atlantic provinces — Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island — to employ foreign nationals for positions that have not been filled locally.
It was launched in 2017, the federal government, along with its provincial partners, aims to welcome over 7,000 newcomers and their families to the Atlantic Canada region by 2021 through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program.
How thе Atlantic Immigration Program Works?
The Atlantic Immigration Program is an employer-driven initiative that simplifies the hiring of foreign nationals.
All principal applicants arriving in Canada under this program must possess a job offer from a designated employer and an individualised settlement plan for themselves and their family.
Once a designated employer identifies a candidate who fulfils their employment requirements and meets the program's criteria, the employer must first extend a job offer.
Employers are not required to undergo the process of obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
After the candidate accepts the job offer, the employer will connect them with a designated settlement service provider organization for a needs assessment and to create a settlement plan.
Employers will also assist in the long-term integration of the new immigrant and their family, if applicable, to help them achieve the objectives of their settlement plan upon arrival.
Employers seeking to promptly fill a job vacancy will be able to access a temporary work permit, allowing the candidate and their family to arrive in Canada as swiftly as possible. To secure this work permit, candidates must provide:
a valid job offer;
a letter from the province; and
An obligation to apply for permanent residence within 90 days of the temporary work permit application
Employer designation
Employers wishing to recruit skilled immigrants through the program must apply to the province(s) to obtain designation.
Employers operating in multiple provinces will need to secure a distinct designation for each province. They must fulfil specific requirements, including a commitment to assist the newcomer and their family in adapting to their new life in Atlantic Canada.
Requirements for Atlantic Immigration Program
To qualify for the AIP, you must:
possess relevant work experience unless you are an international student who has graduated from a recognised post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada.
satisfy the educational criteria,
meet the language requirements,
Demonstrate that you have sufficient settlement funds. Proof of settlement funds is not necessary if you are already residing and working in Canada with a valid work permit.
Settlement funds of AIP
Other Ways to Immigrate to Atlantic Canada
The Atlantic provinces have been proactive in immigration in recent years, primarily through the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
These programs have enabled the provinces to welcome a diverse array of skilled workers, graduates who have completed their studies in Canada, and business immigrants, including entrepreneurs.
Each Atlantic province features at least one PNP stream that is aligned with the federal Express Entry system, permitting candidates in the Express Entry pool who qualify for immigration through one of these streams to submit an application to immigrate to the respective province.
Atlantic Canada PNP options are:
Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)
New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)
Newfoundland And Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)
Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
Conclusion
The Atlantic Immigration Program serves as a pathway to a brighter future in the welcoming and dynamic Atlantic Canada region.
With an emphasis on employer support, population growth, and economic development, the AIP promises a prosperous journey for immigrants and the communities they join.
Explore the opportunities and begin your journey towards a new life in Atlantic Canada today with Izago Immigration.


