Canada offers incredible opportunities for individuals seeking permanent residency through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). This program is for international graduates and skilled foreign workers who wish to settle in one of the four Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island (PEI). If you live in Canada or outside Canada, the AIP presents a viable pathway to achieve your dream of becoming a permanent resident.
What is the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?
Definition and Scope
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) facilitates permanent residency for foreign workers and international graduates in the Atlantic provinces. The program caters to temporary residents in Canada and those living abroad aiming to move to Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, or Prince Edward Island.
Eligibility Criteria for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
Work Experience
- Duration: At least one year of full-time work (1,560 hours) in the last five years unless you are an international graduate from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada.
- Categories: Your work experience must fall within NOC TEER categories 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 (TEER 5 is not eligible).
Job Offer
- Requirement: You must have a job offer in TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 from an AIP-designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces.
Educational Requirements
- TEER 0 or 1: At least a one-year Canadian post-secondary credential or an equivalent credential from outside Canada.
- TEER 2, 3, or 4: A Canadian high school diploma or an equivalent diploma from outside Canada.
Language Proficiency
- TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 jobs: Minimum CLB score of 5.
- TEER 4 jobs: Minimum CLB score of 4.
Settlement Funds
- Requirement: Sufficient funds to support yourself and your family. This requirement does not apply if you live and work in Canada with a valid work permit.
Work Permit Extension
Here is how you can extend your work permit through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP):
- Get a Job Offer: Secure a job offer in an eligible TEER category with an employer designated by the AIP.
- Employer Submits Job Offer: Your employer will submit your job offer to the relevant Atlantic province for endorsement and request a supporting work permit referral letter.
- Apply for Work Permit: Use the work permit referral letter to apply for a two-year extension under the AIP.
How to Get a Work Permit Extension Through AIP
Steps to Extend Your Work Permit
- Get a Job Offer: Secure a job offer in an eligible TEER category with an employer designated by the AIP.
- Employer Submits Job Offer: Your employer submits your job offer to the relevant Atlantic province for endorsement and requests a supporting work permit referral letter.
- Apply for Work Permit: Use the work permit referral letter to apply for a two-year extension under the AIP.
Additional Criteria
Ensure that you meet all the requirements before applying for an extension. It includes having a valid job offer and meeting the specific criteria of the AIP.
Understanding TEER Categories
What is TEER?
TEER (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities) categories are classifications based on the education and training required for a job and the experience and complexity of the responsibilities. These categories are essential for determining eligibility under the AIP.
TEER Categories in Detail
- TEER 0: Management occupations requiring significant education and experience.
- TEER 1: Professional occupations usually require a university degree.
- TEER 2 and 3: Technical occupations requiring a college diploma or apprenticeship training.
- TEER 4: Intermediate occupations requiring secondary education and/or specific job training.
You can read about the TEER categories on the official NOC website.
Conclusion
The Atlantic Immigration Program provides a straightforward path to permanent residency in Canada’s Atlantic provinces. If you are ready to take the next step toward a fulfilling future in Canada, do not hesitate to explore the AIP. Whether you are already in Canada or looking to move from Nigeria, this program offers a promising route to achieving your goals.
For more detailed information and to start your application, contact us and prepare to embark on a new journey in the Atlantic provinces.
FAQs
What is the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?
The AIP allows foreign workers and international graduates to become permanent residents in Canada’s Atlantic provinces.
Who is eligible for the AIP?
You must have relevant work experience, a job offer from an AIP-designated employer, meet educational and language proficiency requirements, and have sufficient settlement funds.
How can I extend my work permit through the AIP?
To extend your work permit, secure a job offer from an AIP-designated employer, get a referral letter from the province, and apply for a work permit extension using the referral letter.
What are TEER categories?
TEER categories classify jobs based on the education and training needed, experience required, and job responsibilities.
Do I need settlement funds for the AIP?
You must show proof of settlement funds unless you live and work in Canada with a valid work permit.
Can international graduates apply for the AIP?
International graduates from recognized post-secondary institutions in Atlantic Canada can apply for the AIP if they meet the other eligibility criteria.
