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Atlantic Immigration Program

AIP

A permanent residence pathway for skilled workers and international graduates who want to settle in Atlantic Canada.

1 min readUpdated 2026-04-01

What is the AIP?

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is an employer-driven immigration pathway for skilled workers and international graduates who want to live and work in one of Canada's four Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador. It became a permanent program in 2022 after a successful pilot phase.

Why It Matters for Newcomers

The AIP offers a more accessible route to permanent residence than some other programs. It has lower language and education requirements for certain streams, and employers participating in the program are designated, meaning the process is streamlined. It also includes a mandatory settlement plan to help you integrate into your new community.

Eligibility Requirements

You need a job offer from a designated Atlantic employer, meet language and education requirements, and have sufficient settlement funds. The program has three categories: Atlantic High-Skilled, Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled, and Atlantic International Graduate. LMIA is not required.

Quick Tip

Atlantic Canada offers a lower cost of living than major cities like Toronto and Vancouver. The AIP's mandatory settlement plan connects you with local settlement services, making the transition smoother.

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