The Atlantic Immigration Program is an employer-driven permanent residence pathway for New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island. A genuine job offer from a designated employer begins the process, but designation alone does not prove applicant eligibility.
Start with a designated-employer offer
The offer must come from an employer designated by an Atlantic province and meet the program's occupation, hours and duration rules. Confirm designation with the province and assess the employment terms. Applicants should never pay for a job offer or treat designation as a guarantee of endorsement.
Meet the applicant requirements
Applicants generally need qualifying work experience, language results, education and settlement funds. A recent graduate from a recognized Atlantic institution may be exempt from the work-experience requirement if all graduate conditions are met. The education and language threshold depends partly on the offered occupation.
Complete settlement and endorsement steps
The candidate obtains a settlement plan from an approved service-provider organization. The employer then works with the province on endorsement. The provincial endorsement certificate and other program forms support the federal permanent residence application.
Consider the optional work permit carefully
A qualifying applicant may seek a two-year employer-specific work permit while PR is processed, supported by the job offer and a provincial referral letter. The permit does not guarantee permanent residence. A spouse or common-law partner may have a separate open-work-permit option.
Free checklist
- Verify employer designation with the province
- Review job-offer occupation and duration
- Confirm work experience or graduate exemption
- Check education and language thresholds
- Obtain a settlement plan
- Secure provincial endorsement
- Compare PR and optional work-permit documents
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a job offer for the Atlantic Immigration Program?
Yes. A valid offer from an employer designated by one of the four Atlantic provinces is a core requirement.
Are Atlantic graduates exempt from work experience?
Some recent graduates of recognized Atlantic institutions may be exempt if they meet all residence, study and status conditions.
Does an AIP work permit guarantee permanent residence?
No. The optional work permit lets an eligible applicant work while PR is processed but does not guarantee approval.
Official sources
Rules, forms and intake policies can change. Every case depends on its complete facts and evidence; this guide does not guarantee eligibility, an invitation or approval.