Canada Launches New Atlantic Pilot Program

On March 6, 2017, The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP), a new three-year pilot program for immigration to Atlantic Canada was officially launched.

Nearly 2000 new applications to this employer-driven program will be processed in 2017, and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to process 80% of complete applications in six months or less.   

The AIPP is a new initiative between the federal government and the Atlantic Provinces, namely Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island (PEI), and Newfoundland and Labrador. Employers will be heavily involved in the process, with all applicants needing a job offer in order to meet the eligibility requirements. 

The AIPP has two sub-programs for skilled workers:

  • The Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP)
  • The Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AIGP)

Including one sub-program for international student graduates:

  • The Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP)

While some of the requirements are universal across the three sub-programs, other requirements are specific to each sub-program. The work experience, education, and job offer required will depend on whether the individual is applying as a worker or as an international student graduate.

Employer designation

There is no Labour Market Impact Assessment process under the AIPP. However, employers that would like to hire skilled immigrants under the pilot program must apply to their province in order to receive a designation. Employers with locations in multiple provinces will require a separate designation for each province.