Understanding the Atlantic Immigration Program: A Pathway to Canada’s East Coast
Canada’s Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a fast-track pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers and international graduates who want to settle in New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island.
Unlike other programs, the AIP doesn’t require an LMIA, has lower language requirements (CLB 4+), and offers faster processing (6-12 months).
This guide explains how the AIP works, eligibility criteria, and key steps to apply successfully.
Why Choose the Atlantic Immigration Program?
✅ No LMIA Required – Employers don’t need a Labour Market Impact Assessment.
✅ Lower Language Requirement – CLB 4 (IELTS 4.5) for most jobs.
✅ Fast Processing – PR in as little as 6 months (vs. 12+ months for other streams).
✅ Job Offer + Settlement Support – Employers help with housing, childcare, and community integration.
1. AIP Eligibility: 3 Pathways to PR
The AIP has three streams, each with different requirements:
| Program | Who It’s For | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Atlantic High-Skilled Program | Skilled workers (NOC TEER 0-3) | – 1+ year work experience – CLB 5 (IELTS 5.0) – High school diploma |
| Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program | Semi-skilled workers (NOC TEER 4) | – 1+ year work experience – CLB 4 (IELTS 4.5) – High school diploma |
| Atlantic International Graduate Program | Recent grads from Atlantic Canada | – Degree/diploma from an Atlantic province school – No work experience needed – CLB 4 (IELTS 4.5) |
Additional Requirements:
✔ Valid full-time job offer (1+ year, non-seasonal) from a designated AIP employer
✔ Settlement plan (employer helps with housing, childcare, etc.)
✔ Proof of funds (unless already working in Canada)
2. How the AIP Process Works
Step 1: Find a Designated AIP Employer
- Employers must be approved by an Atlantic province.
- Job offers must be full-time, non-seasonal, and meet wage standards.
Step 2: Get a Settlement Plan
- Your employer works with a settlement service provider to create a plan for your transition.
Step 3: Receive an Endorsement Letter
- The province reviews and approves your application.
Step 4: Apply for Permanent Residency
- Submit your PR application to IRCC (6-12 month processing).
Step 5: Move to Atlantic Canada
- Once approved, you land as a permanent resident and begin working.
3. Key Benefits of the AIP
🔹 Lower IELTS Requirement – CLB 4 (vs. CLB 7 for Express Entry)
🔹 No LMIA Needed – Faster hiring process for employers
🔹 Priority Processing – Faster than PNP or Express Entry
🔹 Family Included – Spouse & children can come with you
4. Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Choosing the wrong employer – Only AIP-designated employers can hire you.
❌ Incomplete settlement plan – Your employer must provide a detailed support plan.
❌ Not proving funds – If not already working in Canada, show 3,500+(single)or6,500+ (family of 4).
5. AIP vs. Other Immigration Programs
| Factor | AIP | Express Entry | PNP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processing Time | 6-12 months | 6 months | 12-18 months |
| Job Offer Required? | Yes | No (but helps) | Yes |
| LMIA Needed? | No | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Language Requirement | CLB 4 | CLB 7 | CLB 5-7 |
Need Help Applying? We Specialize in AIP!
The AIP is a golden opportunity for those who qualify—but the process can be tricky.
📩 Contact us today: enquiries@finnihtravelsandimmigration.ca
Our licensed consultants can help you:
✅ Find AIP-approved employers
✅ Prepare a strong settlement plan
✅ Submit a successful PR application
Your Canadian dream starts on the East Coast—let’s make it happen!