Atlantic Immigration Program

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a permanent immigration pathway created to attract skilled foreign workers and international graduates to Canada’s four Atlantic provinces—Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. This employer-driven initiative aims to strengthen the regional labor force and support long-term economic development by addressing specific labor market needs.

One of the key features of AIP is its direct collaboration with designated employers in the region. These employers actively participate in the process by offering full-time job opportunities to qualified candidates and helping them and their families settle successfully in their communities. The program is open to candidates both in Canada and abroad, making it accessible to a wide range of skilled professionals.

To be eligible, applicants must receive a valid job offer from a designated employer in an eligible NOC TEER category, meet language proficiency and educational requirements, and demonstrate sufficient work experience or hold a post-secondary credential from a recognized institution in Atlantic Canada. Additionally, candidates must submit a personalized settlement plan and obtain endorsement from the relevant provincial government before applying for permanent residence.

AIP supports regional retention by encouraging newcomers to live and work in Atlantic Canada long-term. Unlike other economic immigration programs, it prioritizes community integration, employer support, and long-term retention of newcomers in smaller and rural communities. This focus not only helps meet immediate labor shortages but also promotes population growth and cultural diversity in regions that benefit most from immigration.

The Atlantic Immigration Program plays a vital role in Canada’s broader strategy to promote regional immigration and reduce the concentration of newcomers in large urban centers. It serves as a strong example of how immigration can be tailored to regional needs while offering newcomers a clear, supportive path to permanent residence.

If you’re considering immigration options outside Ontario or major metropolitan areas, you may find the AIP a compelling choice. Learn more about other regional immigration options by visiting our Other Immigration Programs page.

At RightWay Canada, our team of expert immigration consultants can help determine if the Atlantic Immigration Program aligns with your background and goals. Book a consultation today and begin your path toward permanent residence in one of Canada’s welcoming Atlantic provinces.