Everything About the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
by Shincy George
NursingManthra – Documents Clearance
Originally launched as the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Programme (AIPP), this initiative was revamped in March 2022 into the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). It’s designed to help employers in Canada’s four Atlantic provinces—New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador—recruit and retain skilled workers and international graduates.
For the official overview, visit the Government of Canada’s AIP page:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/atlantic-immigration.html
Key Features:
Family inclusion: Once you obtain PR, you can bring your family
Low language requirement: IELTS CLB 4 or 5 is sufficient
Flexible experience: No prior work experience mandatory—but if you have it, you need just 1 year (1560 hours) within the last 5 years
No age limit
Who Is Eligible?
Work Experience
At least 1 year of full‑time work (1560 hours) within the last 5 years (inside or outside Canada)
NOC Skill Level A for medical professionals
International Graduates
Must have completed a 2‑year degree or diploma from a recognized post‑secondary institution in one of the four Atlantic provinces.
List of eligible institutions:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/atlantic-immigration/post-secondary-institutions.html
Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)
Required to verify foreign credentials
Recognized bodies include WES
Language Test:
For NOC 0/A/B: minimum CLB 5 (IELTS, CELPIP, TCF, TEF)
For NOC C: minimum CLB 4
Proof of Funds:
Show you have enough settlement funds (see attached example picture)
Job Offer from a Designated Employer:
Must be a full‑time, non‑seasonal job with a one‑year contract
Employer issues IMM 057 form and provincial endorsement
Find designated employers here:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/atlantic-immigration/how-to-immigrate/job-offer.html
Companies Registering in AIP:
Only employers designated by a provincial government may hire through AIP. If a Canadian company needs international talent, you’ll often see them register as an AIP-designated employer.
Settlement Plan:
Outline how you’ll adapt to life in your chosen province Temporary Work Permit Shortcut
If you’re in a hurry, ask your employer to support you with a temporary work permit application first—so you can start working right away—then convert to PR within 90 days.
- Criteria: NOC 0, 1, 2, or 3 category only
- Valid job offer (full‑time, non‑seasonal) required
- 1560 hours experience in the past 5 years (inside or outside Canada)
Application Process: Step by Step
- Gather Documents
- Generate and Validate Barcode
- Print All Forms
- Make Payment (depends on family size—keep two copies of the receipt)
- Courier Package to IRCC
- Receive Acknowledgement
- Wait for Final Approval
Document Checklist (IMM 0155):
https://www.canada.ca/content/dam/ircc/documents/pdf/english/kits/forms/imm0155e.pdf
Job Hunting Tips in Canada
1. Know the Market
- Post‑COVID downturn: Many sectors still under pressure; layoffs every few months are common.
- High competition: A single posting can attract 500+ resumes within an hour.
2. Tailor Your Application
- Perfect your resume:
- Detail responsibilities with quantifiable achievements (e.g. “Managed a team of 5 nurses, reduced patient wait times by 20%”).
- Keep it to one page if possible.
- Cover Letter:
- Always include one, targeted to the specific job and employer.
- Highlight why you are the ideal fit.
3. Beat the ATS
- ATS‑friendly format:
- Use standard headings (Experience, Education, Skills).
- Avoid graphics or columns that can confuse parsing software.
- Submit correctly:
- Send via the method the employer requests (email, portal, etc.), not only LinkedIn.
4. Networking & Follow‑Up
- Leverage LinkedIn: Connect with hiring managers and recruiters.
- Informational interviews: Ask existing employees about the culture and hiring process.
- Follow up: A polite email a week after submission can keep you top of mind.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
NursingManthra can help with:
- ECA & document gathering
- Form‑filling & barcode generation
- Application process Assistance
📩 Contact us: WhatsApp: +971502515717
Good luck on your Canadian journey!
— Shincy George