The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a Canadian immigration pathway designed to help skilled foreign workers and international graduates obtain permanent residence while working in Atlantic Canada.
This program supports economic growth in the four Atlantic provinces: Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick. It helps employers hire qualified international talent to fill labour shortages in the region.
Unlike many other Canadian immigration programs, the Atlantic Immigration Program is employer-driven. Applicants must receive a valid job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces before applying for permanent residence.
At LB Pathway, in partnership with LandBird Law Firm, we help applicants understand their eligibility and guide them through the entire Atlantic Immigration Program process.
What is the Atlantic Immigration Program?
The Atlantic Immigration Program is a federal immigration initiative that allows designated employers in Atlantic Canada to hire foreign workers when they cannot find suitable candidates locally.
The program provides a direct pathway to Canadian permanent residence for skilled workers and international graduates who wish to live and work in Atlantic Canada.
To participate in the program, applicants must receive a job offer from a designated employer and obtain endorsement from the provincial government before applying for permanent residence.
Atlantic Provinces in Canada
The Atlantic Immigration Program applies to four provinces located on Canada's east coast:
- Nova Scotia
- New Brunswick
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Prince Edward Island
These provinces offer growing job opportunities, affordable living costs, and strong community support for newcomers.
Who Can Apply?
The Atlantic Immigration Program is available to two main groups of applicants:
- Skilled foreign workers with relevant work experience
- International graduates from recognized institutions in Atlantic Canada
Applicants may apply whether they are currently living in Canada or residing abroad.
Key Eligibility Requirements
Although requirements vary depending on the applicant category, most candidates must meet the following general criteria:
- A full-time job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada
- At least one year of relevant work experience (for skilled workers)
- Minimum language proficiency in English or French
- Educational credentials that meet program requirements
- Proof of settlement funds if required
Applicants must also demonstrate their intention to live and work in one of the Atlantic provinces.
Job Offer Requirement
A key requirement of the Atlantic Immigration Program is obtaining a job offer from an approved employer in Atlantic Canada.
The job offer must be:
- Full-time and non-seasonal
- From a designated Atlantic employer
- Approved by the provincial government through an endorsement process
Once the job offer is endorsed, the applicant may submit an application for permanent residence to the federal government.
Settlement Support for Newcomers
One unique feature of the Atlantic Immigration Program is the settlement support plan provided to newcomers.
Before arriving in Canada, applicants receive a personalized settlement plan designed to help them integrate successfully into their new community.
Settlement services may include assistance with housing, language training, employment support, and community integration programs.
Application Process
Applying for the Atlantic Immigration Program generally involves the following steps:
- Secure a job offer from a designated Atlantic employer
- Receive provincial endorsement for the job offer
- Prepare a settlement plan
- Submit a permanent residence application to IRCC
- Receive approval and move to Atlantic Canada
Applicants may also apply for a temporary work permit while their permanent residence application is being processed, allowing them to begin working sooner.
Benefits of the Atlantic Immigration Program
- Direct pathway to Canadian permanent residence
- Lower language requirements compared to some other programs
- No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) required
- Opportunities to work in growing industries
- Family members can accompany the applicant
The program is designed to attract skilled workers who can contribute to the economic development of Atlantic Canada while building a new life in the region.
How LB Pathway & LandBird Law Firm Can Help
Applying through the Atlantic Immigration Program requires careful preparation and documentation.
Our experienced immigration team assists clients with every stage of the application process.
- Eligibility assessment for Atlantic immigration programs
- Job offer and employer guidance
- Documentation and application preparation
- Permanent residence application support
- Legal immigration assistance through LandBird Law Firm
Start Your Immigration Journey to Atlantic Canada
The Atlantic Immigration Program offers a strong pathway for skilled workers and graduates who want to build their future in Canada’s growing Atlantic provinces.
Contact LB Pathway today to learn more about the Atlantic Immigration Program and begin your journey toward Canadian permanent residence.