For Filipino workers and international graduates looking to build a future in Canada, the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) offers one of the most accessible and streamlined pathways to permanent residence. Designed specifically for Atlantic Canada’s four provinces — New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador — the AIP connects skilled foreign workers with employers who need them, while providing personalized settlement support to help newcomers thrive.
Unlike Express Entry’s competitive points-based ranking, the AIP is employer-driven — meaning a qualifying job offer from a designated employer is your ticket to permanent residence. With lower language requirements, no LMIA needed, and dedicated settlement services, the AIP is particularly well-suited for Filipino immigrants who have connections to Atlantic Canada or are open to building a new life in one of Canada’s most welcoming regions.
Updated February 2026: The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) became a permanent program on January 1, 2022, replacing the Atlantic Immigration Pilot. Under Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, the AIP is allocated approximately 4,000 admissions annually, with priority given to healthcare, skilled trades, construction, and French-speaking workers.
What Is the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?
The Atlantic Immigration Program is a permanent federal immigration pathway that helps employers in Atlantic Canada hire qualified foreign nationals for positions they have been unable to fill locally. Originally launched as the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP) in 2017, the program was made permanent on January 1, 2022, reflecting its success in attracting and retaining immigrants to the region.
The AIP stands out from other Canadian immigration programs in several key ways:
- Employer-driven: You need a job offer from a designated Atlantic employer — no points-based competition
- No LMIA required: Designated employers are exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process
- Lower language requirements: As low as CLB 4 for intermediate-skilled positions (compared to CLB 7 for Express Entry)
- Settlement support: Every applicant receives a personalized settlement plan through a designated service provider
- Work while you wait: You can apply for an employer-specific work permit while your PR application is processed
- Family included: Spouse/partner and dependent children are included in your PR application
Eligible Provinces
The AIP operates exclusively in Canada’s four Atlantic provinces:
- New Brunswick — Largest Atlantic province by land area, with growing healthcare and IT sectors
- Nova Scotia — Home to Halifax, the region’s largest city, with strong demand in healthcare and skilled trades
- Prince Edward Island (PEI) — Canada’s smallest province, prioritizing healthcare, construction, and manufacturing workers
- Newfoundland and Labrador — Resource-rich province with opportunities in healthcare, offshore energy, and aquaculture
AIP Eligibility Requirements
The Atlantic Immigration Program has unified eligibility requirements organized by NOC 2021 TEER categories (Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities). Your requirements depend on the TEER level of your job offer.
Who Can Apply
You may qualify for the AIP if you are a skilled worker with qualifying work experience, or a recent international graduate from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada. You can be living abroad or already in Canada as a temporary resident.
Requirements by TEER Category
The following table summarizes the eligibility requirements based on the TEER level of your job offer:
| Requirement | TEER 0 & 1 (Management & Professional) | TEER 2 & 3 (Technical & Skilled) | TEER 4 (Intermediate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Language (CLB/NCLC) | Minimum CLB 5 | Minimum CLB 5 | Minimum CLB 4 |
| Education | Canadian 1-year+ post-secondary credential OR foreign equivalent with ECA | Canadian high school diploma OR foreign equivalent with ECA | Canadian high school diploma OR foreign equivalent with ECA |
| Work Experience | 1,560 hours (min. 12 months) in past 5 years in TEER 0-4 | 1,560 hours (min. 12 months) in past 5 years in TEER 0-4 | 1,560 hours (min. 12 months) in past 5 years in TEER 0-4 |
| Job Offer Duration | Minimum 1 year from PR date | Minimum 1 year from PR date | Permanent (no end date) |
| Job Offer Type | Full-time (30+ hrs/week), non-seasonal | Full-time (30+ hrs/week), non-seasonal | Full-time (30+ hrs/week), non-seasonal |
Important Note for International Graduates: If you graduated from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada (program of at least 2 years), you are exempt from the work experience requirement — provided you completed your credential within the past 2 years and lived in the Atlantic region for at least 16 months during the last 2 years of study. This is a significant advantage for Filipino students studying in the Atlantic provinces.
Language Requirements in Detail
You must take an approved language test and achieve the minimum CLB level for your job offer’s TEER category. Test results must be less than 2 years old at the time of application.
| Test | CLB 4 (TEER 4) | CLB 5 (TEER 0-3) |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS General | L: 4.5 / R: 3.5 / W: 4.0 / S: 4.0 | L: 5.0 / R: 4.0 / W: 5.0 / S: 5.0 |
| CELPIP General | L: 4 / R: 4 / W: 4 / S: 4 | L: 5 / R: 5 / W: 5 / S: 5 |
| TEF Canada (French) | L: 145-216 / R: 121-150 / W: 181-225 / S: 181-225 | L: 217-248 / R: 151-180 / W: 226-270 / S: 226-270 |
Work Experience Requirements
You need a minimum of 1,560 hours of qualifying work experience accumulated over at least 12 months within the last 5 years. Your experience must be in a TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 occupation. The following types of work do not count:
- Self-employment
- Unpaid or volunteer work
- Work performed while you were a full-time student (unless through a co-op program)
Remember: International graduates from Atlantic Canadian institutions who meet the exemption criteria do not need to show work experience.
Job Offer Requirements
The AIP is an employer-driven program, which means you must receive a genuine job offer from a designated employer in one of the four Atlantic provinces. Your job offer must meet these criteria:
- Full-time: At least 30 paid hours per week
- Non-seasonal: Consistent, regularly scheduled employment throughout the year
- TEER 0-3 positions: Job must last at least 1 year from the date you become a permanent resident
- TEER 4 positions: Job must be permanent (no set end date)
- NOC TEER 0 through 4: The position must fall within these skill levels under the NOC 2021 classification
Good News for Filipino Workers: Many occupations commonly held by Filipino immigrants in Atlantic Canada qualify under the AIP, including positions in healthcare (personal care attendants, licensed practical nurses), food services, fish and seafood processing, trucking, and skilled trades. The AIP’s acceptance of TEER 4 occupations opens doors that programs like Express Entry do not.
Employer Designation Process
Before an employer can make you a job offer under the AIP, they must first become a designated employer through their provincial government. The designation process ensures that employers are legitimate and committed to supporting newcomers.
Employer Requirements
- Must have been operating in Atlantic Canada for at least 2 years
- Must be in good standing and comply with employment standards and occupational health and safety legislation
- Must not be in violation of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) or its regulations
- Must commit to working with a settlement service provider organization to support the newcomer
- Must apply for designation through the province where the position is located
How Designation Works
- The employer applies for designation through the provincial government website
- There is no cost to become a designated employer
- The province reviews the application and, if approved, grants designation
- Once designated, the employer can make job offers to foreign nationals under the AIP
- The employer then submits an endorsement application to the province on behalf of the candidate
Each province manages its own designation process. You can find the application forms on the respective provincial websites:
Settlement Plan Requirement
One of the unique features of the AIP is the mandatory settlement plan. Before your employer can submit an endorsement application, you must connect with a designated settlement service provider organization to develop a personalized settlement plan.
What the Settlement Plan Covers
- Community orientation: Information about your new community, including housing, transportation, and local services
- Language training: Assessment of language needs and referral to language programs if needed
- Labour market information: Help understanding the local job market and workplace culture
- Social connections: Introduction to community groups, cultural organizations, and support networks
- Education: Information about schools for children and credential recognition
- Healthcare: How to register for provincial health insurance and find a family doctor
The settlement plan is developed at no cost to you. It is designed to help you and your family integrate successfully into your new community. This is particularly valuable for Filipino families who are new to Canada and want guidance navigating life in Atlantic Canada.
For Filipino Families: The settlement plan is especially helpful if you are bringing your spouse and children. The service provider can help connect your family with Filipino community groups in Atlantic Canada, Tagalog-speaking support services, and cultural organizations that can ease the transition. The AIP’s retention rate of 78% in the second year — higher than other immigration pathways — is largely attributed to this settlement support.
Settlement Funds (Proof of Funds)
Unless you are already working in Canada on a valid work permit, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family when you arrive. The required amounts are based on 12.5% of Canada’s Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) and are updated annually by IRCC.
Minimum Settlement Funds (Effective July 29, 2025)
| Family Size | Required Funds (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 member (applicant alone) | $3,815 |
| 2 members | $4,749 |
| 3 members | $5,838 |
| 4 members | $7,090 |
| 5 members | $8,040 |
| 6 members | $9,069 |
| 7 or more members | $10,098 |
| Each additional member | +$1,029 |
Key rules for proof of funds:
- Funds must be readily accessible (cash, savings, or guaranteed investment certificates)
- Must consist of personal savings only — borrowed funds do not qualify
- Cannot include non-liquid assets such as property, vehicles, or investments that cannot be quickly converted to cash
- You must provide official bank letters showing current balances and transaction history
- Funds must be available both when you apply and when your visa is issued
- Exemption: You are exempt from proving settlement funds if you are already working in Canada on a valid work permit
Required Documents
Preparing a complete and well-organized application is critical to avoiding delays and refusals. Here is a comprehensive checklist of documents you will need:
Identity and Status Documents
- Valid passport (for you and all accompanying family members)
- Birth certificate (PSA-issued for Filipino applicants)
- Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship (if applicable)
- Divorce or annulment documents (if applicable)
- National identity card
- Two passport-sized photographs meeting IRCC specifications
AIP-Specific Documents
- Provincial endorsement certificate (issued by the province after employer applies)
- Job offer letter from designated employer (using IRCC form)
- Settlement plan (from designated settlement service provider)
Education Documents
- Educational credential(s) — diploma, degree, or certificate
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report from a designated organization (for foreign credentials)
- Transcripts
Work Experience Documents
- Reference letters from past employers (on company letterhead, detailing duties, hours, and dates)
- Employment contracts
- Pay stubs or proof of compensation
Language and Financial Documents
- Language test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, or TCF — less than 2 years old)
- Proof of funds — official bank letters with balances and transaction history
Other Documents
- Police clearance certificates (from every country you have lived in for 6+ months since age 18 — for Filipino applicants, this means NBI Clearance from the Philippines)
- Medical examination results (from an IRCC-designated panel physician)
- Biometrics (fingerprints and photo — provided at a collection point after receiving instructions from IRCC)
Application Process: Step by Step
The AIP application involves coordination between you, your employer, the province, a settlement service provider, and IRCC. Here is the complete process:
Step 1: Find a Designated Employer and Receive a Job Offer
Your employer must already be designated under the AIP (or apply for designation). Once they identify you as a candidate, they will provide you with a written job offer that meets AIP requirements. The job must be full-time, non-seasonal, and in an eligible NOC TEER category.
Step 2: Develop Your Settlement Plan
Connect with a designated settlement service provider in the province where you will be working. They will assess your needs and create a personalized settlement plan covering housing, language training, community integration, and more. This step is mandatory and must be completed before your employer can submit the endorsement application.
Step 3: Employer Submits Endorsement Application
Your employer submits an endorsement application to the provincial government, including your settlement plan and job offer details. The province reviews the application to ensure the position is genuine and the employer meets all requirements.
Note: As of May 1, 2025, the AIP endorsement application process moved to a new online system called LaMPSS. Employers must now submit endorsement applications through this updated portal.
Step 4: Receive Provincial Endorsement
If approved, the province issues a provincial endorsement certificate. This certificate confirms that the province supports your application and is essential for your federal PR application. You will also receive a work permit support letter if you need to start working before your PR is approved.
Step 5: Apply for Permanent Residence
With your endorsement certificate in hand, submit your permanent residence application to IRCC online. Include all required documents, pay the applicable fees, and provide biometrics when requested.
Step 6: Apply for a Work Permit (Optional)
If you want to start working while your PR application is being processed, you can apply for an employer-specific work permit. You will need your job offer letter, provincial endorsement, and a work permit support letter from the province. This work permit is LMIA-exempt.
Step 7: Medical Exam and Biometrics
Complete your immigration medical examination with an IRCC-designated panel physician and provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at a designated collection point. IRCC will send you instructions after receiving your application.
Step 8: Receive Your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR)
Once IRCC approves your application, you will receive your Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if applicable, a permanent resident visa. You can then travel to Canada (or confirm your PR status if already in Canada) and begin your new life in Atlantic Canada.
Processing Times and Fees
Processing Times
IRCC’s service standard for AIP applications is 6 months (approximately 180 days). However, actual processing times have varied significantly in recent periods. As of January 2026, the reported processing time is approximately 33 months for some applications, though this reflects a backlog that IRCC is actively working to reduce.
Important: Processing times fluctuate and depend on application volume, completeness of your application, and whether additional documents or verifications are required. The best way to minimize delays is to submit a complete and accurate application with all required supporting documents. Working with an experienced immigration lawyer can significantly reduce the risk of delays caused by incomplete or improperly prepared applications.
Fee Breakdown
| Fee Type | Principal Applicant | Spouse/Partner | Dependent Child |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processing Fee | $1,525 | $950 | $260 |
| Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) | $575 | $575 | Exempt |
| Biometrics | $85 per person / $170 maximum per family | ||
Total Cost Examples
| Scenario | Government Fees (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Single applicant | $2,185 (processing + RPRF + biometrics) |
| Applicant + spouse | $3,795 (both processing + both RPRF + family biometrics) |
| Applicant + spouse + 1 child | $4,055 (all processing + RPRF for adults + family biometrics) |
| Applicant + spouse + 2 children | $4,315 (all processing + RPRF for adults + family biometrics) |
Additional costs to budget for:
- Language test (IELTS/CELPIP): approximately $300-$400
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): approximately $200-$350
- Police clearance certificates (NBI Clearance for Philippines): approximately $10-$20
- Medical examination: approximately $200-$450 per person
- Document translation and notarization: varies
2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan: AIP Allocations
Under Canada’s 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, the Atlantic Immigration Program is allocated approximately 4,000 admissions annually. This reflects the federal government’s continued commitment to supporting population growth and labour market needs in Atlantic Canada.
| Year | Total PR Admissions (Canada) | AIP Allocation | Economic Class Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 380,000 | ~4,000 | 64% by 2027-2028 |
| 2027 | 380,000 | ~4,000 | 64% |
| 2028 | 380,000 | ~4,000 | 64% |
Key trends for AIP under the new levels plan:
- Stable allocations: The 4,000 annual target provides predictability for employers and applicants
- Priority sectors: Healthcare, skilled trades, construction, and French-speaking roles are prioritized
- Focus on retention: The AIP’s built-in settlement support continues to produce strong retention rates
- Workers already in Canada: IRCC has signaled a stronger focus on transitioning temporary workers already in Canada to permanent residence
In-Demand Occupations in Atlantic Canada
Atlantic Canada is experiencing significant labour shortages across multiple sectors. The following occupations are particularly in demand and align well with the skills many Filipino workers bring:
Healthcare
- Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
- Registered Nurses (RNs)
- Nurse Practitioners (NPs)
- Personal Care Attendants / Personal Support Workers
- Home Support Workers
- Medical Laboratory Technicians
- Physicians (Family Medicine, Psychiatry, Internal Medicine)
Skilled Trades and Construction
- Carpenters
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Welders
- Heavy equipment operators
- Construction labourers
Other In-Demand Sectors
- Fish and seafood processing workers
- Food service supervisors and cooks
- Transport truck drivers
- Manufacturing and production workers
- IT professionals and software developers
- Early childhood educators
- Accounting and finance professionals
AIP vs. Express Entry vs. Provincial Nominee Programs
Understanding how the AIP compares to other major immigration pathways can help you determine the best route for your situation:
| Feature | AIP | Express Entry (CEC/FSW) | Provincial Nominee (PNP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Points-based ranking | No | Yes (CRS) | Varies by stream |
| Job offer required | Yes (designated employer) | No (but adds 50-200 CRS points) | Varies by stream |
| LMIA required | No | Yes (if claiming job offer points) | Varies |
| Min. language (CLB) | CLB 4-5 | CLB 7 (FSW) / CLB 7 (CEC) | Varies (often CLB 4-6) |
| Settlement plan | Yes (mandatory) | No | No |
| Work experience needed | 1,560 hrs / 5 yrs (exemptions for grads) | 1 yr Canadian (CEC) or 1 yr foreign (FSW) | Varies |
| Geographic restriction | Atlantic Canada (4 provinces) | Anywhere in Canada | Nominating province |
| Processing time (standard) | 6 months | 6 months | 15-22 months |
| Best for | Workers with Atlantic employer connections | High-scoring skilled workers | Workers with provincial ties |
When AIP Is the Better Choice
- You have a job offer from an Atlantic Canada employer
- Your CRS score is too low for Express Entry draws (typically 470+)
- You work in a TEER 4 occupation that does not qualify for Express Entry
- Your language scores are below CLB 7 but meet CLB 4 or 5
- You are an international graduate from an Atlantic Canadian institution
- You value the personalized settlement support the AIP provides
Benefits for Filipino Applicants
The Atlantic Immigration Program offers several distinct advantages for Filipino immigrants:
Growing Filipino Community
Atlantic Canada’s Filipino community has grown significantly in recent years. Cities like Halifax (Nova Scotia), Moncton and Saint John (New Brunswick), Charlottetown (PEI), and St. John’s (Newfoundland) all have active Filipino community organizations, churches, and cultural groups. The growing community means access to familiar food, cultural celebrations like Flores de Mayo and Noche Buena gatherings, and a support network of kababayan who have navigated the same immigration journey.
Lower Cost of Living
Compared to major metropolitan areas like Toronto and Vancouver, Atlantic Canada offers a significantly lower cost of living. Housing is more affordable, allowing Filipino families to save more and send remittances home. A family that might struggle to afford a condo in Toronto can often purchase a house in Atlantic Canada for a fraction of the cost.
Skills Match
Many of the occupations in highest demand in Atlantic Canada align with the professional backgrounds of Filipino workers — healthcare, caregiving, food services, skilled trades, and seafood processing. Filipino nurses, personal support workers, and caregivers are particularly well-positioned to find employment through the AIP.
Pathway for Caregivers and Health Workers
For Filipino caregivers and healthcare workers who may not qualify for other immigration programs, the AIP’s acceptance of TEER 4 occupations (with CLB 4 language requirement) provides a viable path to permanent residence that other programs do not offer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I apply to the AIP without a job offer?
No. The AIP is an employer-driven program, and a valid job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada is mandatory. You cannot apply independently without an employer. However, JCA Law Office can help you understand how to connect with designated employers and position yourself as a strong candidate.
Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. Your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children can be included in your permanent residence application. They will also benefit from the settlement plan services.
Can I work while my PR application is being processed?
Yes. Once you receive your provincial endorsement and a work permit support letter, you can apply for an employer-specific work permit that is LMIA-exempt. This allows you to start working for your designated employer while IRCC processes your PR application.
Do I have to stay in Atlantic Canada permanently?
The AIP is designed to address labour market needs in Atlantic Canada, and the expectation is that you will live and work in the province that endorsed you. However, as a permanent resident of Canada, you have the legal right to live and work anywhere in the country under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. That said, maintaining ties to your endorsing province — especially during the early years — demonstrates good faith and supports the program’s goals.
What happens if I lose my job after getting PR?
Your permanent residence status is not tied to your specific employer. Once you become a permanent resident, you are free to seek other employment. The AIP settlement service provider can also assist you with job search support if needed.
Is the AIP the same as the old Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP)?
The AIP replaced the AIPP on January 1, 2022, when it became a permanent program. While the core structure is similar, the permanent program has been refined with improved processes, updated TEER categories (replacing the old NOC skill levels), and the new LaMPSS endorsement portal.
Can I apply from the Philippines?
Yes. You can apply from abroad or from within Canada. If you are in the Philippines, you will need to obtain your NBI Clearance, complete your medical exam with an IRCC-designated panel physician in the Philippines, and provide biometrics at the nearest collection point. Your employer in Atlantic Canada will handle the endorsement process with the province.
How JCA Law Office Can Help
Navigating the Atlantic Immigration Program involves coordination between multiple parties — your employer, the provincial government, a settlement service provider, and IRCC. At JCA Law Office Professional Corporation, we provide comprehensive legal support at every stage of the process:
- Eligibility assessment: We evaluate your qualifications, work experience, and language scores to determine if the AIP is the right pathway for you
- Employer guidance: We help employers understand the designation process and endorsement requirements
- Application preparation: We prepare your complete PR application package, ensuring all documents are properly organized and meet IRCC requirements
- Document review: We review your job offer, settlement plan, and endorsement materials for compliance
- Work permit applications: We assist with temporary work permit applications so you can start working while your PR is processed
- Filipino-specific support: As a firm deeply connected to the Filipino-Canadian community, we understand the unique challenges Filipino applicants face — from obtaining NBI Clearances and PSA documents to navigating credential recognition
- Ongoing communication: We manage correspondence with IRCC on your behalf and keep you informed of your application status
Ready to Start Your AIP Application?
Whether you are a skilled worker in the Philippines looking for opportunities in Atlantic Canada, or an international graduate from an Atlantic Canadian institution ready to settle permanently, JCA Law Office can guide you through every step of the Atlantic Immigration Program.
Contact us today for a consultation:
- Phone: (416) 838-8122
- Email: info@jcalaw.ca
- Book online: Schedule a Consultation
Related Resources
Explore More Immigration Guides:
Official Government Resources:
This guide was last updated on February 8, 2026. Immigration programs, fees, and processing times are subject to change. Always verify current requirements with IRCC or consult with an immigration lawyer for personalized advice. JCA Law Office Professional Corporation provides immigration legal services to the Filipino-Canadian community in the Greater Toronto Area and across Canada.
