Atlantic Canada Welcomes New Era in Immigration: Atlantic Immigration Program Launched

December 17, 2021—Ottawa
Immigration continues to be a cornerstone of community development across Canada, and perhaps nowhere is this more evident than in Atlantic Canada. Over recent years, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot has successfully ushered thousands of newcomers into the region, playing a pivotal role in revitalizing communities, bolstering businesses, and driving population growth.

In light of this success, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, has announced the launch of the Atlantic Immigration Program. This new, permanent initiative will officially commence on January 1, 2022, aiming to draw skilled immigrants to the Atlantic provinces to tackle pressing economic and demographic challenges, notably the region's labor shortages.

Success of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot

Since its inception in 2017, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot has facilitated the arrival of over 10,000 new permanent residents to Atlantic Canada. Employers participating in the program have extended more than 9,800 job offers across vital sectors such as:

• Health Care
• Accommodations
• Food Services
• Manufacturing

Remarkably, over 90% of these newcomers have remained in the region after one year, a retention rate significantly higher than that of other immigration pathways.

Key Features of the Atlantic Immigration Program

The new permanent program will maintain the three core features that were instrumental to the pilot's success:

• Employer Focus: Emphasizing the role of businesses in the immigration process.
• Enhanced Settlement Support: Providing robust assistance to newcomers to aid their integration.
• Collaborative Approach: Ensuring cooperation across all Atlantic provinces.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), in collaboration with Atlantic provinces, has meticulously crafted the program based on the insights and recommendations gathered from the pilot evaluation. Key improvements include:

• Clearer delineation of roles among partners.
• Increased employer support through tailored training.
• Strengthened program requirements to promote successful establishment of newcomers.

Transition to the Permanent Program

To ensure a seamless transition from the pilot to the permanent program, IRCC is working closely with employers and provincial governments. Eligible candidates with a valid endorsement can begin submitting applications for permanent residence under the new program starting March 6, 2022.

The Atlantic Immigration Program represents a significant step forward in addressing the region's needs by aligning immigration initiatives with economic priorities. As Atlantic Canada continues to open its doors to global talent, the program promises not only to sustain but to enhance the vitality of its communities and the prosperity of its industries.

In this new era, the region stands poised to benefit from a diverse influx of skilled immigrants, ensuring a thriving future for generations to come.