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Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a streamlined federal immigration pathway designed to attract and retain skilled workers..

(AIP)

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) Live Where the Ocean Meets Opportunity – Choose the Atlantic Way!

  • Federal Fast-Track PR Route
  • Employer-Driven Pathway
  • No LMIA Required
  • Settlement Support Services
  • Family-Friendly Program
  • Open Work Permit for Spouses
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a streamlined federal immigration pathway designed to attract and retain skilled workers and international graduates in Canada’s four Atlantic provinces: Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. Known for its beautiful landscapes, tight-knit communities, and lower cost of living, Atlantic Canada offers not only a high quality of life but also faster routes to permanent residence.
One of the most appealing aspects of the AIP is that you don’t need to go through the hassle of obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)! If you're a skilled worker or graduate with a valid job offer from a designated Atlantic employer, you're on a direct path to Canadian permanent residency. Many newcomers also enjoy the added benefit of settlement services and the opportunity to bring their family with them on open work permits or study permits.
Dreaming of coastal serenity, vibrant culture, and excellent career opportunities? The Atlantic Immigration Program could be your next big step. Wondering how it compares with provincial nominee programs like NLPNP? Scroll down to discover if AIP is the right fit for you.
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Why Choose the Atlantic Immigration Program?

Every year, thousands of newcomers choose the AIP for its simple process, quicker PR timeline, and job-centric model. Employers in the Atlantic region can directly hire international talent without an LMIA, making it easier for skilled individuals and international graduates to secure jobs and settle permanently.

Whether you're a recent graduate from a recognized institution in Atlantic Canada or an experienced professional from overseas, AIP ensures a smooth transition, offering support right from job matching to community integration. Not to forget, the spouse's open work permit and dependent children's access to education make it perfect for families!

Thinking of applying without worrying about high CRS scores or complex procedures? With AIP, you can! Contact us now to get your profile assessed.


Who Can Apply to the Atlantic Immigration Program?

There are three main groups eligible to apply under AIP:

Skilled Workers (High-Skilled & Intermediate-Skilled)

  • Valid full-time job offer in an eligible occupation from a designated employer
  • 1 year of relevant work experience (within past 5 years)
  • CLB 4 or higher (English or French)
  • High school diploma or higher
  • Settlement funds or proof of current employment in Canada

International Graduates

  • Completed a two-year program from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada
  • Full-time job offer in an eligible occupation
  • No work experience required
  • CLB 4 or higher
  • Graduation must be within 24 months before application

Families

  • Spouses are eligible for open work permits
  • Children can study without a separate study permit
  • Settlement services available for the entire family

Want to know if you're eligible? Our experts will guide you through the process step by step!


Atlantic Immigration Program Streams

The AIP doesn’t divide applicants by province or CRS points. Instead, it has three simplified categories:

High-Skilled Workers Program
For individuals with job offers in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 and at least one year of work experience.

Intermediate-Skilled Workers Program
For applicants with job offers in NOC TEER 4 occupations and relevant work experience.

International Graduate Program
For recent grads from an Atlantic Canadian post-secondary institution with a valid job offer.

Each category requires an endorsement from a designated Atlantic employer and a settlement plan.


How to Apply to the Atlantic Immigration Program?

Thinking it’s complicated? Not at all! Here’s the general roadmap to follow:

Talk to a Consultant
It all starts with evaluating your eligibility and matching you with the best Atlantic province and job category.

Secure a Valid Job Offer
Find a job with a designated Atlantic employer in any of the four provinces. Glocal Opportunities can help you connect with employers!

Get an Endorsement from the Province
Once you have the job offer, the employer applies for a provincial endorsement on your behalf.

Submit PR Application to IRCC
Once endorsed, you can apply for permanent residence through IRCC. You may also apply for a temporary work permit to begin working immediately.

Settle with Ease
Enjoy access to settlement services that help you and your family transition into Canadian life.


AIP Processing Time

The Atlantic Immigration Program is well-known for its fast processing. Typically:

  • Endorsement Certificate: 2–6 weeks
  • PR Processing (via IRCC): 6–8 months

In total, you can expect to receive your PR within 6 to 10 months if your application is complete.


Atlantic Canada Designated Employers List

Each province maintains a list of designated employers eligible to hire through AIP. These employers have proven commitment to hiring and retaining foreign workers and offer support during the settlement process.

Some top industries hiring via AIP:

  • Healthcare & Nursing
  • IT & Software Development
  • Trucking & Logistics
  • Seafood Processing & Fisheries
  • Retail & Hospitality
  • Childcare & Early Education

Reach out to check if your employer is on the list or if your occupation is in demand.


Eligibility Criteria for AIP

Here’s a quick breakdown of what you need:

Age – No specific requirement (must be legally employable)

Job Offer – Full-time, non-seasonal, and from a designated Atlantic employer

Work Experience – At least 1 year (except graduates)

Education – Canadian post-secondary OR ECA for foreign education

Language Proficiency – Minimum CLB 4 in English or French

Intent – Must plan to live and work in one of the Atlantic provinces

Settlement Funds – Required unless already working in Canada


High-Demand Occupations in Atlantic Provinces

Occupation NOC Code
Registered Nurses 31301
Software Engineers 21231
Truck Drivers 73300
Fish & Seafood Workers 94142
Hospitality Supervisors 62022
Childcare Educators 42202
Personal Support Workers 44101
Construction Workers 75110
Welders 72106
Accountants 11100

Curious if your occupation is eligible? Let our team evaluate your profile!


CRS Score Requirement for AIP

Good news! The Atlantic Immigration Program doesn’t operate on the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System). You don’t need to enter the Express Entry pool. All you need is a valid job offer, endorsement, and the right eligibility.


AIP vs. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

The Atlantic Immigration Program is federal, employer-driven, and does not require an LMIA. Compared to PNPs like NLPNP, AIP is more direct and less score-driven. Both are excellent programs, but AIP’s faster route, easier process, and family-friendly nature make it an ideal choice for many. Still confused between NLPNP and AIP? We’ll help you pick the best fit!


How to Boost Your Chances in AIP?

Work with Designated Employers – Our recruitment network connects you with employers across Atlantic Canada.

Improve Language Scores – Although the minimum is CLB 4, higher scores enhance your employability.

Build a Strong Settlement Plan – This shows you’re serious about building a life in Atlantic Canada.

Get Help from Immigration Experts – From resume formatting to paperwork, our team ensures your application is top-notch.

Stay Informed on Policy Updates – We keep you updated with changing immigration trends and employer demand.


Common Challenges in AIP

While AIP is simplified, some challenges remain:

Job Offer Requirement – Can’t apply without one

Designated Employers Only – Limited list

Employer Endorsement – Must be obtained before applying

Settlement Plan – Must be approved

Regional Focus – Must live in Atlantic Canada


Why Choose Glocal Opportunities for AIP?

Expertise You Can Trust
We’ve helped thousands secure PR through Atlantic programs.

Employer Connections
Access to a large pool of designated employers looking for international talent.

Full Application Support
From stream selection to document prep and PR submission.

Language Training
Top trainers for IELTS, CELPIP, and TEF.

Family Assistance
Help your spouse and children integrate successfully.

Quick Enquiry

Most Trusted Visa & Immigration Agency!

Frequently Asked Questions?

PR under AIP usually takes 6 to 10 months, depending on job offer and application readiness.
Yes! Spouses can get open work permits, and children can attend school without a separate study permit.
AIP is quicker and doesn’t rely on CRS scores. It’s great for those with job offers in Atlantic Canada.
Healthcare, IT, trucking, fish processing, childcare, and trades are top in-demand sectors.