🇨🇦work Visa

Atlantic Immigration Program

Canada

Last updated: December 20, 2025

Duration

Permanent residence (renewable)

Visa Fee

$1,525

Time

3-11 months

Complexity

Medium

About this Visa

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is Canada's way of helping skilled workers move to Atlantic provinces. You need a job offer from an employer in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador. Once approved, you become a permanent resident with full Canadian rights. This program is designed for people with work experience and education who want to live in Atlantic Canada. It's faster and easier than many other Canadian immigration routes if you have a job offer.

Key Benefits

  • Work legally without restrictions in Canada
  • Bring spouse/partner with open work permit
  • Bring dependent children with free public schooling K-12
  • Access healthcare like Canadian residents
  • Path to citizenship after 3 years
  • Option to work while waiting for permanent residence approval

Eligibility & Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

  • Job offer from designated employer in Atlantic Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador)
  • At least 1 year of recent paid work experience in last 5 years
  • English or French at beginner-intermediate level (CLB 4-5 depending on job type)
  • High school diploma or higher (plus Education Credential Assessment if from outside Canada)
  • Enough settlement funds for family size
  • No criminal record and pass security check
  • Pass medical exam
  • Work experience in skilled occupation (most jobs except basic labor qualify)

Financial Requirement

Must prove enough money to settle. Amount depends on family size (roughly CAD 3,000–8,700 for families of 1–7). Not required if already working in Canada with valid work permit.

Documents

  • Valid passportMust be valid for entire application period
  • Birth certificateOriginal or certified copy
  • Job offer letterFrom designated employer in Atlantic Canada
  • Education certificatesPlus Education Credential Assessment if from outside Canada
  • Language test resultsIELTS, CELPIP, or TEF at CLB 4-5 level
  • Police certificateFrom every country lived in 6+ months since age 18
  • Medical examFrom IRCC-approved doctor
  • Proof of settlement fundsBank letters showing sufficient funds for family size
  • Work experience lettersFrom previous employers documenting job duties and dates
  • Marriage or divorce papersIf applicable

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.