Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): Your Guide to Moving

What Is the Atlantic Immigration Program?

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a permanent immigration pathway launched in 2022 (after running as a pilot from 2017-2021) that helps employers in Atlantic Canada — Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador — hire qualified international workers and international graduates. The program is designed to address the unique labour market challenges and demographic concerns facing Atlantic Canada, where an aging population and outmigration to other provinces have created significant workforce gaps.

The AIP is employer-driven, meaning you need a job offer from a designated employer to apply. However, the program has lower requirements than many other immigration pathways and includes unique settlement support through mandatory settlement plans that help newcomers integrate into their new communities.

Eligibility Requirements

For Workers (High-Skilled and Intermediate)

• Job offer: Full-time, non-seasonal job offer from a designated employer in an Atlantic province. The job must be at least one year in duration (or permanent).
• Work experience: At least 1,560 hours (one year full-time) of work experience in the same NOC occupation as the job offer, within the last five years. The experience can be from Canada or abroad.
• Education: Minimum Canadian high school diploma or equivalent (verified through an ECA for foreign credentials).
• Language: Minimum CLB 5 for NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 positions; CLB 4 for NOC TEER 4 positions.
• Settlement funds: Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and your family (unless already working in Canada).

For International Graduates

• Job offer: Same requirement — full-time, non-seasonal from a designated employer.
• Education: Must have graduated from a publicly funded post-secondary institution in an Atlantic province. The program must have been at least two years long, and you must have lived in the Atlantic province for at least 16 months during studies.
• No work experience required: This is a major advantage over other programs.
• Language: CLB 5 for TEER 0-3 positions; CLB 4 for TEER 4.
• Timing: Must apply within 24 months of graduation.

Designated Employers

Not every employer in Atlantic Canada can hire through the AIP. Employers must apply to become designated by their provincial government, demonstrating that they:

• Have a genuine need for workers that cannot be filled locally
• Commit to supporting newcomer settlement and retention
• Meet all provincial employment standards requirements
• Have no unresolved labour disputes

There are currently over 3,000 designated employers across the four Atlantic provinces, ranging from large employers like Irving, Emera, and the provincial health authorities to small businesses, restaurants, and farms.

The Settlement Plan Requirement

One of the most unique features of the AIP is the mandatory settlement plan. Before applying for PR, you and your family must meet with a designated settlement service provider organization to create a personalized settlement plan. This plan covers:

• Community orientation: Information about your new city or town
• Employment: Understanding your workplace rights and Canadian work culture
• Language: Language training options if needed
• Housing: Help finding housing in your community
• Education: School registration for children, further education options for adults
• Social connections: Connecting with community organizations, cultural groups, and recreational activities
• Healthcare: Registering for provincial health insurance, finding a family doctor

The settlement plan is not just a formality — it is a genuine support mechanism that sets the AIP apart from other programs. Designated settlement organizations include ISANS in Nova Scotia, Multicultural Association of the Greater Moncton Area in New Brunswick, PEI Association for Newcomers, and Association for New Canadians in Newfoundland.

Application Process

1. Find a job with a designated employer: Search for AIP positions on Job Bank, Indeed, and employer websites. Attend Atlantic immigration job fairs (held regularly in Canada and internationally).
2. Employer endorsement: Your employer applies to their provincial government to endorse your application.
3. Settlement plan: Meet with a designated settlement service provider to create your plan.
4. Apply for PR: Submit your PR application to IRCC with the endorsement letter, settlement plan, and supporting documents.
5. Apply for work permit (if needed): If you are not already in Canada, you can apply for a temporary work permit to start working while your PR is processed.

Life in Atlantic Canada

Atlantic Canada offers a distinct lifestyle that many newcomers find appealing:

Nova Scotia

• Halifax: The largest city in Atlantic Canada (~450,000 metro), with a growing tech sector, universities (Dalhousie, Saint Mary's, NSCC), vibrant arts and music scene, and waterfront living.
• Cost of living: Significantly lower than Toronto or Vancouver. Average rent for a 2-bedroom: $1,600-$2,000.
• Key industries: Ocean technology, IT, healthcare, education, tourism, defence

New Brunswick

• Moncton, Saint John, Fredericton: Three mid-sized cities, each with distinct character. Moncton is bilingual and growing quickly. Saint John has the port and industrial base. Fredericton is the capital with government and university.
• Cost of living: Among the lowest in Canada. Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,200-$1,600.
• Key industries: IT (Moncton is a growing tech hub), energy, forestry, agriculture, bilingual services

Prince Edward Island

• Charlottetown: PEI's capital (~40,000) with a small-town feel and strong community connections.
• Cost of living: Affordable, though housing prices have risen. Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,300-$1,700.
• Key industries: Agriculture, fisheries, tourism, bioscience, aerospace

Newfoundland and Labrador

• St. John's: The oldest city in North America (~110,000 metro), with a vibrant culture, strong community spirit, and stunning natural beauty.
• Cost of living: Moderate. Average 2-bedroom rent: $1,100-$1,500.
• Key industries: Oil and gas, mining, fisheries, technology, healthcare

Advantages of the AIP

• Lower CRS requirements: The AIP does not use the CRS system — you do not need a high score to qualify.
• Employer commitment: Your designated employer is invested in your success and settlement.
• Settlement support: The mandatory settlement plan provides structured integration support.
• Community connections: Smaller communities in Atlantic Canada offer warmth, safety, and genuine welcome.
• Affordable living: Significantly lower housing and living costs compared to Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary.
• Growing economies: Atlantic Canada's economies are diversifying and growing, with increasing demand for skilled workers.

Challenges to Consider

• Smaller cities: If you come from a major metropolis, the smaller size of Atlantic cities may feel like an adjustment.
• Climate: Atlantic Canada has cold, snowy winters and shorter summers. Halifax is milder than inland cities, but winters are still substantial.
• Limited public transit: Outside Halifax, public transportation is limited. A car is often necessary.
• Smaller immigrant communities: Cultural communities and ethnic grocery stores may be smaller than in Toronto or Vancouver, though they are growing.
• Employment market: While growing, the job market is smaller than major centres. Having a job offer through the AIP mitigates this.

How to Find AIP Employers

• Job Bank: Filter by Atlantic provinces and look for AIP-designated employers.
• Atlantic Immigration Job Fairs: IRCC and Atlantic provinces regularly host hiring events in Canada and internationally.
• Provincial immigration websites: Each Atlantic province lists designated employers and AIP information.
• Recruitment agencies: Some agencies specialize in AIP placements.
• Direct employer contact: Research companies in your field in Atlantic Canada and reach out directly.

The Atlantic Immigration Program combines affordable living, genuine community welcome, and a streamlined immigration process. For newcomers willing to explore life beyond Canada's largest cities, Atlantic Canada offers a compelling combination of opportunity and quality of life.

Beyond the Application: Essential Pre-Arrival Preparations for AIP Candidates

Once your AIP application is approved, the excitement builds, but the preparation doesn't stop there. This crucial pre-arrival phase is your opportunity to lay a strong foundation for a smooth transition. Start by understanding how your foreign qualifications will be recognized in Canada. Our Credential Assessment Tool can guide you through the process, which is often a prerequisite for professional licensing or employment in regulated professions. If you anticipate needing further language practice, consider utilizing our Language Test Prep resources to enhance your English or French skills, which will be invaluable for job interviews and daily life in Canada.

Begin actively researching job opportunities in your chosen Atlantic province. While you already have a job offer for AIP, understanding the broader labour market can help you plan for future career growth and potential new roles. Polish your Canadian-style resume with our Resume Builder and practice your interview skills using our Interview Preparation Coach. Don't forget to explore pre-arrival services offered by the Canadian government, which provide free support and information to approved immigrants before they even land. You can find more details on these valuable services through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) here. Making the most of this time will significantly ease your settlement journey and help you feel more prepared upon arrival.

Settling into Atlantic Canada: Practical Tips for Your New Home

Arriving in your new Atlantic Canadian community marks the beginning of an exciting chapter. While the AIP helps with employment, there are many practical steps to take for a comfortable settlement. One of your first priorities should be securing suitable housing. Researching rental markets and understanding regional differences is key, as housing costs and availability can vary even within the Atlantic provinces. Our Housing Guide offers valuable insights into finding accommodation across Canada, including specific tips relevant to the Atlantic region. To manage your finances effectively,