Atlantic Immigration Program: Move to Atlantic Canada

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residence for skilled workers and international graduates who want to live and work in Atlantic Canada — New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador.

What Is the Atlantic Immigration Program?

The AIP is a federal-provincial partnership designed to address labour shortages in Atlantic Canada — one of Canada's most historically underserved regions for immigration. It became a permanent program in March 2022 after years as a pilot initiative that proved highly successful in attracting and retaining newcomers to the region. The AIP focuses on employer-driven nomination, requiring a job offer from a designated employer in the Atlantic region.

Atlantic Canada has long faced unique demographic challenges, including an aging population, youth out-migration to larger urban centers, and persistent labour market gaps in key sectors such as healthcare, technology, hospitality, and skilled trades. The AIP was specifically designed to help Atlantic provinces compete for global talent while ensuring newcomers receive the support they need to establish roots in smaller communities.

Since its inception, the program has welcomed thousands of newcomers to the Atlantic region, with retention rates significantly higher than the national average for economic immigrants. In 2024 and 2025, the program continued to expand, with all four Atlantic provinces increasing their designated employer networks and settlement service capacity to accommodate growing interest from international candidates.

The program operates as a true partnership between Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the four Atlantic provincial governments. Each province maintains its own list of designated employers and manages the endorsement process, while IRCC handles the final permanent residence application stage. This collaborative approach ensures that immigration aligns with regional labour market needs while maintaining federal immigration standards.

Three Streams Under the Atlantic Immigration Program

Atlantic High-Skilled Program

The Atlantic High-Skilled Program is designed for workers with a job offer in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation from a designated Atlantic employer. Applicants must have at least one year of work experience in the last three years in a qualifying occupation, and demonstrate language proficiency at Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4 or higher in English or French.

This stream is ideal for professionals, managers, and skilled tradespeople. Common occupations include software developers, registered nurses, financial analysts, construction managers, electricians, and welders. The one-year work experience requirement can be accumulated through full-time employment (30 hours per week) or equivalent part-time hours. The work experience does not need to be in Canada, making this stream accessible to candidates currently working abroad.

In 2025, the high-skilled stream has seen particularly strong demand in the technology sector, with Nova Scotia and New Brunswick actively recruiting software engineers and IT professionals to support their growing tech hubs in Halifax and Fredericton. Healthcare professionals, especially nurses and medical laboratory technologists, remain in high demand across all four provinces.

Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program

The Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program targets workers in NOC TEER 4 occupations with a qualifying job offer from a designated employer. Like the high-skilled stream, it requires one year of work experience in the last three years and CLB 4 language proficiency.

TEER 4 occupations typically require a high school diploma and job-specific training. Examples include long-haul truck drivers, food service supervisors, retail sales supervisors, industrial butchers, and home support workers. This stream is particularly valuable because many other Canadian immigration programs focus primarily on higher-skilled occupations, leaving gaps in intermediate-skilled labour markets.

The intermediate-skilled stream has proven especially important for Atlantic Canada's hospitality, transportation, and food processing sectors. In 2024-2025, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador have used this stream extensively to address critical shortages in tourism-related occupations and fish processing facilities, which are vital to the regional economy.

Atlantic International Graduate Program

The Atlantic International Graduate Program is designed for graduates of a recognized Atlantic Canadian institution who have completed at least a two-year program and received a qualifying job offer from a designated employer. Notably, no prior work experience is required for this stream, making it an excellent pathway for recent graduates.

To qualify, applicants must have completed at least a two-year degree, diploma, or certificate program from a publicly-funded institution in one of the four Atlantic provinces. The program must have required full-time study, and the applicant must have been physically present in the Atlantic province for at least 16 months during the two years before graduation. Additionally, applicants must have held a valid study or work permit during their studies.

The job offer must be in a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 occupation and does not need to be related to the field of study. Language requirements are CLB 5 for TEER 0 or 1 occupations, and CLB 4 for TEER 2, 3, or 4 occupations. This flexibility allows graduates to explore career opportunities across various sectors while remaining in Atlantic Canada.

In 2025, this stream has become increasingly popular among international students at institutions such as Dalhousie University, Memorial University, University of New Brunswick, and the University of Prince Edward Island. Many graduates in fields such as business administration, computer science, and engineering have successfully transitioned to permanent residence through this pathway.

The Designated Employer Model

The key to AIP is the designated employer system, which distinguishes this program from most other Canadian immigration pathways. Not all Atlantic employers can participate in the AIP — they must apply to their provincial government and be designated as eligible AIP employers before they can hire foreign nationals through this program.

Designation means the employer has committed to supporting the settlement of new immigrants and actively promoting their integration into the community. Employers must demonstrate that they are in good standing with provincial labour standards and workplace safety regulations, have a genuine need for foreign workers, and are committed to providing settlement support beyond simply offering employment.

Once an employer is designated, they can extend job offers to foreign nationals through the AIP pathway. The employer must provide a full-time, non-seasonal job offer that meets minimum wage requirements for the province and occupation. The position must be for at least one year from the date the applicant becomes a permanent resident.

As of 2025, there are over 3,000 designated employers across the four Atlantic provinces, spanning industries from healthcare and technology to hospitality, manufacturing, and skilled trades. Each province maintains a searchable database of designated employers, though not all provinces make these lists publicly available. Candidates are encouraged to research employers in their field and reach out directly, or work with licensed immigration consultants who have established relationships with designated employers.

The designated employer model creates accountability and ensures that newcomers arrive with not just a job, but a support system. Employers who fail to meet their obligations can lose their designation, protecting the integrity of the program and the interests of newcomers.

No Minimum CRS Score Required

Unlike the federal Express Entry system, the Atlantic Immigration Program does not have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirement. This makes it particularly valuable for candidates who have the skills, education, and a job offer but who might not score high enough for an Express Entry Invitation to Apply (ITA).

In 2024 and early 2025, Express Entry CRS cut-off scores have ranged from the mid-400s to over 500 for general draws, making it challenging for many qualified candidates without Canadian work experience, advanced degrees, or provincial nominations to receive an ITA. The AIP provides an alternative pathway that prioritizes employer needs and regional labour market demands over points-based competition.

After receiving a provincial endorsement through AIP, candidates apply directly to IRCC for permanent residence — the process does not go through the Express Entry pool. This direct application route means that factors like age, education level, and work experience, while still important for meeting program eligibility, do not determine your success through a competitive ranking system.

This feature makes the AIP especially attractive to candidates in their 40s or 50s who may lose points in Express Entry due to age, or those with strong work experience but limited formal education. If you have a genuine job offer from a designated employer and meet the basic program requirements, your path to permanent residence is clear and predictable.

The Settlement Plan Requirement

A unique AIP requirement is the settlement plan, which reflects the program's strong emphasis on long-term integration and retention. Before receiving the provincial endorsement, the employer connects the applicant with a settlement services organization in the Atlantic community where they will be living and working.

Together, the applicant and the settlement organization develop a comprehensive settlement plan covering essential areas such as housing, language support, credential recognition, community integration, and access to services like healthcare and education. This plan is tailored to the individual's needs and circumstances, taking into account factors such as family composition, language proficiency, and previous international experience.

The settlement plan typically addresses practical questions such as: Where will you live when you first arrive? How will you find permanent housing? What language training is available if you need to improve your English or French? How will you get around (public transit, driver's license requirements)? Where will your children attend school? How will you connect with community groups and social networks?

This step distinguishes AIP from other programs and reflects its focus on long-term settlement success rather than simply filling immediate labour market needs. Research has shown that newcomers who receive comprehensive settlement support are significantly more likely to remain in their destination communities and achieve successful economic and social integration.

All four Atlantic provinces have invested heavily in settlement services infrastructure to support AIP applicants. Organizations such as the Immigrant Settlement Association in Nova Scotia, the New Brunswick Multicultural Council, the Association for New Canadians in Newfoundland and Labrador, and the PEI Association for Newcomers to Canada provide free, confidential services to help newcomers navigate their settlement journey.

Processing Times and Application Timeline

AIP applications are generally processed faster than many federal pathways, with total processing times often ranging from six to twelve months from endorsement application to permanent residence approval. The timeline consists of two main stages: provincial endorsement and federal permanent residence processing.

The provincial endorsement stage typically takes two to three months, depending on the province and the volume of applications. During this stage, the province reviews the employer's designation status, verifies the job offer, confirms the applicant's eligibility, and ensures the settlement plan is in place. Once satisfied, the province issues a certificate of endorsement.

The federal processing stage, where IRCC reviews the permanent residence application, typically takes six to nine months as of 2025. The federal government has prioritized Atlantic Canada immigration to support regional economic growth, which has helped maintain faster processing times for AIP candidates compared to many other economic immigration streams.

Processing times can vary based on factors such as the completeness of the application, the need for additional documentation, security and medical screening requirements, and the applicant's country of residence. Applicants from countries with more complex security screening processes may experience longer processing times.

It's important to note that applicants can apply for a work permit while their permanent residence application is being processed. This allows them to begin working for their designated employer and settling in Atlantic Canada while awaiting their final permanent residence decision, reducing uncertainty and allowing families to begin their new lives sooner.

Language Requirements and Testing

Language proficiency is a critical component of the Atlantic Immigration Program. All applicants must demonstrate their English or French language ability through approved testing. The minimum requirement is CLB 4 for most streams, though the Atlantic International Graduate Program requires CLB 5 for TEER 0 or 1 occupations.

CLB 4 represents basic proficiency — the ability to understand simple conversations, read basic texts, and communicate in routine situations. While this is a relatively accessible threshold, applicants are strongly encouraged to achieve higher language levels if possible, as stronger language skills significantly improve employment success and community integration.

Approved language tests include IELTS General Training and CELPIP-General for English, and TEF Canada for French. Test results must be less than two years old at the time of application. Many settlement organizations in Atlantic Canada offer free or low-cost language training programs, and some designated employers provide language support to their AIP candidates before and after arrival.

Education and Credential Recognition

For the Atlantic High-Skilled and Intermediate-Skilled Programs, applicants must have completed at least a high school education. For foreign education credentials, an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is required to verify that the education is equivalent to Canadian standards. Approved ECA providers include World Education Services (WES), International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS), and Comparative Education Service (CES).

For regulated professions such as nursing, engineering, or teaching, additional credential recognition and licensing may be required before you can work in your field in Canada. The settlement plan process typically includes guidance on credential recognition pathways, and many Atlantic provinces have streamlined processes to help internationally trained professionals obtain necessary licenses more quickly.

Family Members and Dependents

The Atlantic Immigration Program allows you to include your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children in your application. Family members included in your application will also receive permanent residence when your application is approved. This is a significant advantage, as your entire family can immigrate together and begin building your new life in Atlantic Canada simultaneously.

Dependent children are defined as children under 22 years of age who do not have a spouse or common-law partner, or children over 22 who have depended substantially on the financial support of a parent since before age 22 and are unable to financially support themselves due to a physical or mental condition.

All family members must undergo medical examinations and security checks as part of the application process. Spouses and partners may also need to provide language test results and educational credentials, though these are not used to determine eligibility — they help IRCC assess settlement needs and potential.

Cost of the Atlantic Immigration Program

Applicants should budget for several costs associated with the AIP application process. These include language testing fees (approximately CAD $300-400), Educational Credential Assessment fees (CAD $200-300), medical examinations (approximately CAD $300-500 per family member), police certificates (costs vary by country), and government processing fees.

The federal government processing fee for the principal applicant is CAD $1,365, plus CAD $1,365 for a spouse or partner, and CAD $230 per dependent child. Additionally, there is a Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) of CAD $515 per adult, which is refundable if the application is not approved. In total, a family of four should expect to pay approximately CAD $3,000-4,000 in government fees alone, plus additional costs for testing, assessments, and professional services if using an immigration consultant or lawyer.

Living in Atlantic Canada: What to Expect

Atlantic Canada offers a unique quality of life characterized by smaller cities and towns, strong community connections, lower cost of living compared to major urban centers like Toronto and Vancouver, and proximity to natural beauty including coastlines, forests, and parks. The region is known for its friendly, welcoming culture and has a growing reputation for innovation in sectors such as technology, ocean sciences, and renewable energy.

The four Atlantic provinces each have distinct characteristics. Nova Scotia, with Halifax as its largest city, offers the most urban amenities and a thriving tech sector. New Brunswick is officially bilingual and offers opportunities in both English and French-speaking communities. Prince Edward Island is Canada's smallest province, known for its agricultural sector, tourism, and tight-knit communities. Newfoundland and Labrador offers unique cultural heritage, resource-based industries, and stunning natural landscapes.

While winters can be cold and snowy, the Atlantic region generally experiences milder winters than the Prairie provinces or northern Ontario. The cost of housing is significantly lower than in Canada's largest cities, making homeownership more accessible for newcomers. As of 2025, the average home price in Halifax is approximately CAD $500,000, compared to over CAD $1 million in Toronto and Vancouver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply to the Atlantic Immigration Program without a job offer?

No, a valid job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces is a mandatory requirement for all three AIP streams. Unlike some other immigration programs that allow you to apply based on your skills and qualifications alone, the AIP is employer-driven. You must first secure employment with a designated employer before you can begin the application process. The best approach is to research designated employers in your field, apply for positions directly, or work with a licensed immigration consultant who has connections with Atlantic employers.

How long do I need to stay in the Atlantic province after receiving permanent residence?

While the Atlantic Immigration Program is designed to bring newcomers to Atlantic Canada, permanent residence in Canada grants you the right to live and work anywhere in the country. There is no legal requirement to remain in the Atlantic province that endorsed your application after you become a permanent resident. However, the program is built on the expectation that you intend to settle in the region, and your endorsement is based on a job offer and settlement plan in a specific Atlantic community. Most successful AIP immigrants do remain in Atlantic Canada, drawn by the employment opportunities, community connections, and quality of life that attracted them to the program initially.

What happens if I lose my job with my designated employer after arriving in Canada?

If you lose your job after you have already received permanent residence, you have the same rights as any other permanent resident to seek new employment anywhere in Canada. However, if you lose your job after arriving in Canada but before your permanent residence application is approved, the situation is more complex. You should immediately inform IRCC of the change in circumstances, as your application was based on that specific job offer. Depending on the timing and circumstances, you may be able to secure a new job offer from another designated employer and update your application, but this is not guaranteed. This is why it's crucial to work with reputable designated employers and ensure the job offer is genuine and stable before beginning the immigration process.