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Interested in working in Atlantic, Canada? The application process just got a little bit easier as the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP) has now moved the work permit application process online!
The AIP, originally introduced in 2017 to help fast-track applications for permanent residence in Canada’s four Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador and Prince Edward Island, is helping to create immigration pathways for skilled foreign workers to find work in Canada as well as help boost the economy of these provinces.
One of the great things about the AIP is that employers don’t need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). An LMIA usually requires a Canadian employer to prove that they could not fill the position locally, which usually means having advertised the position for at least 3 months before looking for an international applicant to fill the job offer. This means faster processing of your work permit application.
The most recent update to the application process is that you can now apply for your work permit online. Previously applicants would have to send their application via mail which would mean longer processing times. Now that you can apply online and enjoy the same processing times of the Express Entry system, which is approximately 6 months!
And as if that isn’t fantastic enough, your spouse or partner will be able to apply for an open work permit to be able to work in Canada too!
Although the AIP is currently a temporary pilot, it has had such great success that it is set to become a permanent immigration program, according to Marco Mendicino, Canada’s minister of immigration.
Ready to start your work permit application? Let’s take a look at some of the requirements and how to go about applying to immigrate to Atlantic Canada!
Atlantic Immigration Pilot Requirements
Before you can apply for your Canada work permit through the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, there are a number of criteria that must be met.
Requirements for Skilled Workers
- Valid one-year job offer from a designated employer in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces (NOC level 0, A, B or C);
- One year’s work experience in a related field;
- A letter of endorsement from the province you intend to work in, in Canada;
- A commitment to apply for permanent residence 90 days of applying for a temporary Canada work permit.
- A Canadian high school diploma or certificate; or
- An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) or foreign qualification;
- IELTS - Minimum CLB 4 in English or French;
- Proof of settlement funds; and
- A settlement plan.
Requirements for Graduates
- Valid one-year job offer in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces (NOC level 0, A, B or C);
- A letter of endorsement from the province you intend to work in, in Canada;
- A commitment to apply for permanent residence 90 days of applying for a temporary Canada work permit.
- A two-year post-secondary qualification from a university or college in Atlantic Canada (obtained within 12 months of application);
- IELTS - Minimum CLB 4 in English or French;
- Proof of settlement funds; and
- A settlement plan.
Additional Documents and Requirements
- Passport or Travel Document;
- Medical certificate;
- Police clearance certificate;
- Biometrics; and
- Any other documents requested by the IRCC.
How Does the New Application Process Work?
Step 1: Gather All Necessary Documentation
It is important to ensure that you have all your documents on hand as well as a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents as well as a valid credit card or debit card to pay the applications processing fees.
Step 2: Create an Online Account
As of September 1, 2020, the AIP will no longer be accepting paper applications. You will be able to make payment, submit your application and track your status online.
Step 3: Check Your Country-Specific Application Requirements
Your application requirements may differ depending on whether or not you are applying from in or outside of Canada as well as where you are applying from. Make sure that you meet all these requirements. Failure to do so may result in a rejected application or delays in the process.
Step 4: Apply for Permanent Residence
Once you are sure that you have met all the requirements of the AIP you may submit your application online.
Step 5: Apply for a Temporary Work Permit (Optional)
While you are waiting for your application for permanent residence to be processed you have the option to apply for a one-year temporary work permit. This is an employer-specific work permit that will only be issued for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot. You will have 90 days to apply for permanent residence after submitting your temporary work permit application.
Ready to start your Atlantic adventure? Our team of professionals are here to guide you and your family on your way and help you gather everything you need to start lives in Canada.
We Can Help You Immigrate to Atlantic Canada
Applying for a visa can be time-consuming and confusing. With strict deadlines, procedures and requirements to adhere to, it can be easy to make a mistake that could cost you your chance to immigrate to Atlantic Canada. But with the guidance and assistance of one of our knowledgeable Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC’s), the process will be stress-free.
When you choose to use our expert and government trusted services, you will receive:
- An in-depth eligibility assessment
- Guidance on which of 100+ immigration programs and visas to choose from;
- An immigration plan tailored to your individual needs;
- A review and submission of all application forms and documentation; as well as
- Support through every step of the application process.
All you have to do is fill out our application form to receive your eligibility assessment and let us take care of the rest. It’s just that simple! Your Canadian journey starts here.
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