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Navigating Immigration with Expertise and Empathy

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Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

VisaVio is proud to offer expert guidance through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), a pathway specifically designed to help skilled workers and international graduates move to Canada’s Atlantic provinces. This program provides an excellent opportunity to settle in one of the four provinces—New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador—known for their welcoming communities, high quality of life, and growing economies. The Atlantic Immigration Program is an ideal choice for individuals seeking permanent residence while contributing to the workforce and economy of Canada’s Atlantic region.

Through the Atlantic Immigration Program, VisaVio can help skilled workers and international graduates transition smoothly to permanent residency by working closely with designated employers in the Atlantic region. Key highlights of this program include:

  • Pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers and graduates
  • Focus on Canada’s Atlantic provinces with a designated employer
  • Support for the whole family, including spouses and dependents

VisaVio ensures that your journey through the AIP is seamless, from securing a job offer with a designated employer to obtaining your work permit and eventual permanent residency. Our goal is to make the process straightforward so you can focus on building your new life in Canada’s Atlantic provinces.


Eligibility for the Atlantic Immigration Program

The Atlantic Immigration Program is designed to attract skilled workers and international graduates to fill labor market gaps in Atlantic Canada. To qualify for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Have a job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces
  • Meet the educational requirements, which include at least a high school diploma or equivalent
  • Demonstrate language proficiency in English or French (CLB 4 or higher)
  • Possess at least one year of relevant work experience (for skilled workers)
  • Show intention to settle in the Atlantic provinces
  • Proof of sufficient funds to support themselves and their family (if applicable)

VisaVio’s experienced team will help assess your eligibility, guide you through the necessary steps, and ensure that all required documentation is submitted accurately and on time.


Process for the Atlantic Immigration Program

VisaVio simplifies the application process for the Atlantic Immigration Program, providing personalized assistance at every stage. The AIP process involves the following key steps:

  • Step 1: Obtain a job offer from a designated employer in the Atlantic provinces. VisaVio helps you connect with employers who are actively seeking skilled workers and graduates.
  • Step 2: Receive an endorsement from the province where the job is located. Each Atlantic province endorses candidates based on their job offer and intention to reside in the region.
  • Step 3: Submit your permanent residence application. After receiving the provincial endorsement, you can submit your permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  • Step 4: Apply for a temporary work permit (if necessary). In some cases, you may be able to work while your permanent residence application is being processed by applying for a temporary work permit through the AIP.
  • Step 5: Obtain permanent residence. Once your application is approved, you and your family will become permanent residents of Canada.

VisaVio provides comprehensive support at every stage of the application process, ensuring you have the guidance and resources needed for a successful application.


Categories of the Atlantic Immigration Program

The Atlantic Immigration Program is divided into three categories, each tailored to different types of applicants:

  • Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP): This category is for skilled workers with experience in management, professional, or technical jobs (NOC Skill Type 0, A, or B). Candidates must have at least one year of related work experience.
  • Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AISP): Designed for applicants with work experience in occupations that require a high school education or job-specific training (NOC Skill Level C). This category is ideal for individuals in essential services and trade positions.
  • Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP): This category is for international graduates who have studied in one of the Atlantic provinces. Candidates do not need previous work experience, but they must have completed at least a two-year program at a publicly funded institution in the Atlantic region.

VisaVio will help you determine which category is most appropriate based on your qualifications and work experience, ensuring that your application is properly aligned with the program requirements.


Designated Employers in the Atlantic Immigration Program

A key feature of the Atlantic Immigration Program is the requirement for a job offer from a designated employer. These employers are authorized to hire international workers through the AIP and play a crucial role in supporting economic growth in the Atlantic region. VisaVio will help you connect with these designated employers, ensuring that your job offer meets the program's standards.

Designated employers have been pre-approved by the Atlantic provinces to hire foreign nationals and are committed to supporting their employees’ settlement and integration into the community. VisaVio's strong network of contacts within the Atlantic region will help you identify suitable opportunities and ensure your job offer complies with the program’s requirements.


Benefits of the Atlantic Immigration Program

The Atlantic Immigration Program offers numerous advantages for both applicants and their families:

  • Fast track to permanent residence: The AIP is designed to expedite the application process for skilled workers and graduates.
  • Family inclusion: You can include your spouse and dependent children in your application, ensuring they benefit from permanent residence as well.
  • No LMIA requirement: Unlike other immigration programs, the AIP does not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), making it easier for employers to hire international talent.
  • Provincial endorsement: Each Atlantic province supports the program and provides direct endorsement to candidates, increasing the likelihood of success.
  • Work while your application is being processed: In some cases, you can apply for a temporary work permit to begin working in Canada while your permanent residence application is in progress.
  • Access to settlement services: The AIP includes robust settlement support to help you and your family integrate smoothly into your new community, including language training, housing assistance, and employment support for family members.

VisaVio ensures that you are well-prepared to take full advantage of the AIP’s benefits, guiding you through the process with personalized support at every step.