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Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is designed to facilitate the entry of skilled foreign workers and international graduates into Canada’s Atlantic provinces—Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. This employer-driven initiative collaborates with designated employers to address labor market gaps and bolster economic development in the region.
AIP’s key features include strong employer engagement, where designated employers offer job opportunities to eligible candidates. The program uniquely focuses on the Atlantic provinces, encouraging candidates to settle in these vibrant communities. AIP establishes a pathway to permanent residency, allowing successful candidates to contribute to Canada on a long-term basis.
AIP is driven by objectives such as fostering economic growth in Atlantic Canada by addressing local labor market demands. The program enhances regional vitality by attracting skilled professionals, contributing to the diverse and multicultural fabric of the Atlantic provinces. AIP’s streamlined process creates an efficient immigration pathway, promoting collaboration between employers, candidates, and the immigration system, aligning with its broader objectives of regional development and prosperity.
The AIP stands as a testament to Canada’s commitment to regional development and providing individuals with opportunities to contribute to the prosperity of specific geographic areas within the country.
You can also explore other immigration pathways more suited to each particular situation. All of our fees and packages are also available! Additionally, you can get acquainted with other OINP programs.
Book a consultation today to discuss your eligibility and take your first step towards living and working in Ontario. Let us guide you through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) and turn your Canadian dream into a reality.
WORK EXPERIENCE
INTERNATIONAL GRADUATES
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
SETTLEMENT FUNDS
WORK EXPERIENCE
A crucial aspect of eligibility is work experience, requiring candidates to accumulate a minimum of 1,560 hours of work in the last 5 years. These hours can be acquired through part-time or full-time employment, with exclusions for volunteering and unpaid internships. Work experience must align with the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) categories, ranging from management (TEER 0) to intermediate jobs (TEER 4). It is imperative that the work experience corresponds to the actions and main duties specified in the NOC.
INTERNATIONAL GRADUATES
International graduates seeking eligibility exemptions should possess a degree, diploma, certificate, or trade/apprenticeship certification from a recognized post-secondary institution in one of the Atlantic provinces. Full-time study and residency in the Atlantic provinces for at least 16 months prior to graduation are prerequisites, along with holding a valid visa or permit for work, study, or training during the stay in Canada.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Educational requirements vary based on the TEER category of the job offer. The TEER 0 or 1 category requires a one-year Canadian post-secondary educational credential or higher, while the TEER 2, 3, or 4 category necessitates a Canadian high school diploma or its equivalent. Candidates with educational credentials obtained outside Canada must undergo an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA), confirming equivalence.
LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
Language proficiency is determined by the (CLB) or (NCLC) based on the TEER category. A minimum CLB/NCLC 5 is required for TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 categories, while CLB/NCLC 4 is sufficient for TEER 4. Results from a designated language testing organization, less than 2 years old, must be submitted with the application.
SETTLEMENT FUNDS
The following figures are adjusted annually, representing 12.5% of the low-income cut-off totals. It is crucial to verify your eligibility based on the updated cut-off and ensure that you possess sufficient funds to support your family’s immigration to Canada.
Proof of funds is a mandatory requirement to demonstrate your ability to support yourself and your family upon arrival in Canada. However, if you are already employed in Canada with a valid work permit, you are exempt from providing proof of funds.
The amount of money required depends on the size of your family, including yourself, your spouse or common-law partner, dependent children, and your spouse or partner’s dependent children. This encompasses Canadian citizens or permanent residents, even if they are not accompanying you to Canada. The minimum required funds, as of April 25, 2023, are as follows:
- 1 person: $3,439
- 2 people: $4,281
- 3 people: $5,263
- 4 people: $6,391
- 5 people: $7,248
- 6 people: $8,175
- 7 people: $9,101
- Each additional family member: $926
Proof of funds must be available both when you apply and when the permanent resident visa is issued, if your application is approved. You must confirm your legal access to these funds upon arrival in Canada. Equity on real property is not accepted as proof, and borrowing funds from others is also not permitted. Official letters from banks or financial institutions, printed on their letterhead, must detail your account information, outstanding debts, and financial history over the past six months.
It is advisable to research the cost of living in your intended settlement location in Canada and bring as much money as possible to facilitate your move and initial expenses. Keep in mind that Canadian customs regulations require you to declare amounts exceeding CAN$10,000, and failure to do so may result in fines and fund seizure. Accepted forms of funds include cash, documents demonstrating property or capital payable to you, and documents guaranteeing payment of a set amount, such as bankers’ drafts, cheques, travellers’ cheques, or money orders.
DOCUMENTS AND REQUIREMENTS
PROCESSING TIME
PROCESSING FEES
JOB OFFER
GET A SETTLEMENT PLAN
CERTIFICATE OF ENDORSEMENT
APPLY FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE
TEMPORARY WORK PERMIT (OPTIONAL)
DOCUMENTS AND REQUIREMENTS
Before applying for permanent residence, gather essential documents:
- Language Test: You must take a language test, even if you studied in Canada, and submit the results with your application.
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): If you studied outside Canada, obtain an ECA report to showcase how your education compares to Canadian standards.
- Proof of Funds: Demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself and your family upon arrival. The required amount is based on family size.
- Other Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents, as outlined in the application guide’s checklist.
PROCESSING TIME
The processing time for the Atlantic Immigration Program is approximately 6 months. It’s important to note that this duration does not account for the time required to provide biometrics, which is a separate process. Applicants should plan accordingly and be aware that the actual processing time may vary based on individual circumstances.
PROCESSING FEES
As of April 30, 2022, the fee for the Atlantic Immigration Program is set at a minimum of $1,365. It’s crucial to stay informed about fee updates and changes. Applicants are encouraged to check for the latest information to ensure accurate financial planning for their permanent residence application. If you decide to retain us as your representative, some professional fees will be applicable.
JOB OFFER
To participate in the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), you need to secure a job offer from a designated employer. The job offer must be full-time, non-seasonal, and meet specific duration criteria depending on the National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 category. Designated employers can be found in the Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
When you receive a job offer, ensure it adheres to the program’s guidelines, such as being at the same skill level as or higher than your qualifying work experience. Certain health care sector jobs have exceptions, and NOC 32101 and NOC 31301 experience can qualify for NOC 33102 and NOC 44101 job offers.
GET A SETTLEMENT PLAN
After securing a job offer, collaborate with a settlement service provider to create a settlement plan. This plan aids in your adjustment to Atlantic Canada, providing valuable resources and contacts to help you integrate into the community. Settlement plans are free, and if you’re already in Canada, work with a service provider in your designated region.
CERTIFICATE OF ENDORSEMENT
Following the settlement plan, your employer will initiate the endorsement process with the province. Only proceed with your permanent residence application after confirming that your job offer has been endorsed. Once endorsed, you’ll receive a Certificate of Endorsement, which is a crucial component of your permanent residence application.
APPLY FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCE
To apply for permanent residence through the AIP:
- Online Application: Apply online through the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal.
- Form Submission: Fill out required digital and PDF forms, including the Offer of Employment to a Foreign National under the Atlantic Immigration Program [IMM 0157].
- Biometrics: Pay the biometrics fee and schedule an appointment for fingerprinting and a photo.
- Fee Payment: Pay all necessary fees online.
- Submit Application: Ensure all questions are answered, electronically sign the application, and submit it with supporting documents.
TEMPORARY WORK PERMIT (OPTIONAL)
If eligible, you can apply for a temporary work permit while your permanent residence application is processed. This permit is specific to the AIP, valid for two years, and tied to the employer offering the job. Spouses or common-law partners can also apply for an open work permit.
Program Timeline
Job Offer and Endorsement
Secure a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a designated Atlantic Canada employer. Ensure it aligns with skill level requirements. The employer provides an Offer of Employment and endorses your candidacy.
Document Preparation
Gather essential documents, including language test results, an educational credential assessment (if studied outside Canada), and proof of funds. Follow the checklist to avoid application delays.
Settlement Plan and Certificate of Endorsement
Develop a settlement plan with a service provider. Simultaneously, the employer secures provincial endorsement, resulting in a Certificate of Endorsement.
Application Submission and Biometrics
Submit your permanent residence application online, pay fees, and provide biometrics. Expect a processing time of approximately 6 months. Optionally, apply for a temporary work permit for immediate employment.
Our Professional Fees
Which provinces participate in the Atlantic Immigration Program?
- The participating provinces include Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island.
Who can apply for the Atlantic International Graduate Program?
Recent international graduates from eligible post-secondary institutions in the Atlantic provinces with a job offer in an NOC Skill Type 0, A, B, or C occupation can apply under this program.
Can I apply for permanent residence under the Atlantic Immigration Program?
- Yes, successful applicants under the AIP receive a work permit and may be eligible to apply for permanent residence after meeting specific criteria.
Do I need to show settlement funds to qualify for the Atlantic Immigration Program?
- Yes, applicants are typically required to demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their family members during their settlement in Canada.
What are the requirements for the job offer under the Atlantic Immigration Program?
- The job offer must be from an employer in one of the Atlantic provinces and meet certain criteria. It should be full-time, non-seasonal, and genuine, among other considerations.
Can I apply for the Atlantic Immigration Program if I am self-employed or a business owner?
The AIP is primarily designed for skilled workers with job offers. Self-employed individuals and business owners may need to explore other immigration pathways.
