Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program: Key Facts and Insights

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP) was launched in 2017 as a powerful immigration pathway. It targeted skilled professionals and international graduates from the four Atlantic provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and New Brunswick. The AIPP aims to fill the region’s job vacancies and demographic deficit by offering Canadian PR to skilled individuals.

This blog post reviews the essential elements of AIPP, focusing on its eligibility criteria. 

Understanding the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP)

The AIPP unites the Government of Canada with the Atlantic provinces. It permits specified employers within the region to employ international graduates and foreign talent to take on positions that require local staff. Rather than other immigration options requiring extended processing times, the AIPP was created to enhance immigration progression and assist businesses in swiftly accessing the talent they seek.

This program consists of three distinct immigration streams:

1. Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP): For talent with experienced positions in administration or specialized fields.
2. Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AISP): This program is for occupations calling for individuals with a diploma or job-specific training.
3. Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP): International graduates who received their education at an approved university in an Atlantic province.

The streams all focus on various applicant categories yet aim to address regional labor market requirements.

Why Was the AIPP Introduced?

The Atlantic areas confront a unique challenge in population growth and employment stability. Due to a growing elderly demographic and lower fertility rates in these regions, there is a significant demand for skilled workers compared to the rest of Canada.

The introduction of the AIPP allows employers to attract skilled foreign workers to vital sectors, including manufacturing and construction.

The program seeks to retain international students who received education in the Atlantic provinces, motivate them to stay and pursue job opportunities, and help the regional economy.

Key Benefits of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program

1. Employer-Driven Program

The AIPP stands out because it is employer-focussed. Since other routes involve lengthy Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) processes that can be troublesome for immigrants, this option eliminates such hurdles. Participants in the AIPP must get provincial endorsement and exhibit their support for helping newcomers adapt to their new communities.

2. Faster Path to Permanent Residency

People often acknowledge the AIPP for its rapid processing time. Applications are intended to be processed in six months, which is much quicker than several immigration options. International skilled workers find the AIPP an appealing alternative for a speedy journey to permanent residence.

3. Complete Settlement Assistance

The AIPP highlights its dedication to supporting immigrants settling into their new environments. Organizations play a vital part in aiding candidates with housing and language training. As a result, new immigrants can shift more seamlessly in Atlantic Canada and adjust to their new surroundings.

4. Prior Work Experience is Not Compulsory for International Graduates

The Atlantic International Graduate Program provides an immediate route to permanent residency for international graduates without needing previous employment. This program can benefit fresh graduates planning to gain job experience in their field.

Eligibility Criteria for the AIPP

Before applying to the AIPP, one must select a suitable stream. The basic eligibility requirements for each stream are as follows:

1. Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP)

• Job Offer: Applicants need evidence of a job offer from an approved company in the Atlantic region to be accepted into the program. The job must align with the skilled classifications of NOC skill level 0/A/B.
• Work Experience: Applicants must have one year of work experience in a corresponding field to qualify for the program.
• Education: A high school education or its equivalent is necessary. Your qualifications may need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA).
• Language Proficiency: To join the program, you must show a CLB 4 level of proficiency in either English or French.
• Proof of Funds: It must demonstrate that applicants can afford to live in Canada.

2. Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AISP)

• Job Offer: A referred employer must provide an offer letter for a full-time job with an intermediate skill set (NOC skill level C).
• Work Experience: You need one year of previous professional experience related to your job.
• Education: Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent certificate.
• Language Proficiency: Must master one of the two languages, English or French, at the CLB 4 standard.
• Proof of Funds: You need enough financial means to relocate to Atlantic Canada.

3. Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP)

• Job Offer: A designated company must provide you with a steady position to meet requirements. Jobs are available in every skill classification (NOC 0, A, B, or C).
• Education: You must finish your degree at a certified college in an Atlantic province. The program should last a minimum of two years.
• Language Proficiency: CLB 4 proficiency in English or French is necessary.
• No Work Experience Required: Unlike the other pathways, this option doesn’t require previous employment experience.

How to Apply for the AIPP

Applying for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program involves several key steps:

• Secure a Job Offer: A job offer letter from a delegated employer in any Atlantic province is necessary. According to the AIPP rules, only approved employers can participate in the program and offer job opportunities.
• Obtain Provincial Endorsement: After the applicant is issued a job offer letter, the employer must work closely with the provincial government to issue an endorsement letter. This measure confirms that you and your employer meet the program’s requirements.
• Submit Your Application for Permanent Residency: Receiving a provincial endorsement marks the candidate’s eligibility to apply for a PR to the IRCC.
• Receive Support for Settlement: As an essential program rule, your employer must help you find settlement assistance to experience a smooth transition to a new environment.

Insights into the AIPP’s Success

The AIPP is recognized for attracting skilled immigrants to the Atlantic region and assisting local communities with aging populations and labor shortages. By prioritizing employer engagement and new immigrant support, the program has established a leading example for other immigration policies.

In its initial years, the AIPP attracted thousands of immigrants, many of whom have stayed in the region to pursue their careers while aiding the local economy.

Conclusion

International graduates and skilled workers gain advantages from the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program for creating a prosperous future in Atlantic Canada. The AIPP draws in people considering a move to Canada because of its emphasis on employers and fast processing while providing comprehensive aid in their settlement.

With your intent to settle in Atlantic Canada for a new home, the AIPP offers the simplest path to gaining citizenship. Despite the easy application process, advice from professionals might be essential to ensure your application succeeds. At Kurzfeld Law Firm, we can help you complete your application, ensuring all essential documents are correctly attached.