Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): Your Path to Atlantic Canada

What Is the Atlantic Immigration Program?

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

Unlike Express Entry, AIP requires a job offer from a designated Atlantic employer, making it employer-driven. Processing times are typically 3–6 months — faster than the national average.

Who Qualifies?

AIP has three streams:

• Atlantic High-Skilled Program: For workers with a NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 job offer
• Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program: For workers with a NOC TEER 4 job offer (excluding TEER 5)
• Atlantic International Graduate Program: For graduates from a recognized Atlantic institution who have a qualifying job offer

Key Requirements

• Valid job offer from a designated Atlantic employer
• CLB 4 or higher in English or French (lower than Express Entry)
• Sufficient settlement funds
• 1 year of work experience in the past 3 years (except international graduates)
• Intent to live in Atlantic Canada

The Process: Step by Step

1. Find a job with a designated Atlantic employer (search the designated employer list)
2. Receive a formal job offer
3. Get an endorsement from the Atlantic province
4. Apply for permanent residency through IRCC

Why Atlantic Canada?

Atlantic Canada offers:

• Lower cost of living (housing 40–60% cheaper than Toronto/Vancouver)
• Welcoming communities actively recruiting newcomers
• Strong quality of life and natural beauty
• Provincial support programs for newcomers
• Growing industries: aquaculture, tech, healthcare, aerospace (Moncton)

Also see: Provincial Nominee Programs explained