Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is a pathway to permanent residency for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who want to live in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador. While waiting for permanent residence, eligible applicants can apply for an employer-specific work permit to begin working in Canada right away.

What is the AIP Work Permit?

The AIP work permit is a temporary, employer-specific work permit that allows applicants to work for a designated employer in Atlantic Canada while their permanent residence application is being processed. This ensures that employers can fill urgent labour needs and that workers can transition smoothly to permanent status.

Who Can Apply?

You may be eligible if you:

• Have a valid job offer from a designated employer under the Atlantic Immigration Program.
• Have a referral letter from the Atlantic province confirming eligibility to apply for the work permit.
• Apply for permanent residence under AIP within 90 days of submitting your work permit application.
• Meet admissibility requirements (medical, security, etc.).

This work permit is LMIA-exempt, meaning the employer does not need a Labour Market Impact Assessment.

Employer Requirements

Employers must be officially designated by one of the Atlantic provinces. Their responsibilities include:

• Providing a valid, full-time, non-seasonal job offer.
• Supporting settlement and integration of the worker and their family.
• Working with provincial settlement service providers to create a settlement plan.

Benefits of the AIP Work Permit

• Faster entry to the workforce: Start working while PR is processing.
• Employer support: Employers play an active role in settlement success.
• Family inclusion: Spouses may qualify for an open work permit, and dependent children may apply for study permits.
• Direct pathway to permanent residency in Atlantic Canada.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

The AIP has strict eligibility rules, including deadlines and province-specific requirements. Our law firm helps applicants and employers prepare complete applications, meet program timelines, and ensure smooth transition from temporary status to permanent residency.