By VG Immigration Services Inc. | Last Updated: January 28, 2026
Introduction
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) offers one of Canada’s fastest and most accessible pathways to permanent residence for skilled workers, international graduates, and employers in Atlantic Canada seeking to fill critical labour shortages. Unlike most Canadian immigration programs that require expensive and time-consuming Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIA), the AIP operates as an employer-driven, LMIA-exempt pathway where designated employers in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador can hire foreign workers and support their transition to permanent residence in as little as 6-12 months.
At VG Immigration Services Inc., we’ve successfully guided dozens of Toronto-area employers establishing operations in Atlantic Canada and foreign workers seeking permanent residence through the AIP. With processing times averaging 12 months for 80% of applications — significantly faster than Express Entry Federal Skilled Worker or Provincial Nominee Programs in other provinces — the AIP represents a strategic opportunity for both employers facing labour shortages and skilled workers seeking stable, permanent immigration pathways to Canada.
However, the New Brunswick AIP reached its 2025 annual cap of 1,250 endorsement spaces on April 4, 2025, closing new applications until 2026. With 2026 intake now open (as of January 28, 2026), this comprehensive guide provides everything employers and foreign workers need to know to successfully navigate New Brunswick’s AIP endorsement application process: eligibility requirements, employer designation procedures, settlement plan obligations, document checklists, step-by-step application walkthroughs using the Immigration New Brunswick (INB) portal, and strategies to maximize approval chances.
Contact us for personalized AIP eligibility assessments and application support, or
Book an appointment to begin your Atlantic immigration journey today.
What is the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?
Program Overview and Purpose
The Atlantic Immigration Program is a permanent, employer-driven immigration pathway created in 2017 (initially as a pilot) and made permanent in March 2022 to address critical demographic and labour market challenges facing Canada’s four Atlantic provinces.
Key Challenges AIP Addresses:
- Aging population: Atlantic Canada has the oldest median age in Canada (45+ years vs. 41 national average)
- Population decline: Outmigration to larger cities (Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary) reduces workforce
- Labour shortages: Healthcare, skilled trades, hospitality, technology, manufacturing sectors face persistent vacancies
- Retention difficulties: Historically low newcomer retention rates in smaller Atlantic communities
✅ LMIA-Exempt — No Labour Market Impact Assessment required; faster, cheaper, and more predictable than standard work permits
✅ Employer-Driven — Designated employers identify candidates and drive the application process
✅ Settlement Support Mandatory — Requires pre-arrival settlement planning to improve retention
✅ Lower Eligibility Barriers — Accepts TEER 4 (intermediate-skilled) occupations; lower language and experience requirements than Express Entry
✅ Fast Processing — IRCC committed to 12-month processing standard for 80% of AIP permanent residence applications
✅ Work Permit Bridge — Candidates can obtain temporary work permits while PR applications process
✅ Family Inclusion — Spouses and dependent children included in application
Geographic Scope: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland & Labrador
AIP Categories and Eligibility Requirements
The Atlantic Immigration Program includes three distinct application categories based on work experience and education.
Category 1: Atlantic High-Skilled Program
Target Audience: Skilled professionals, managers, and technical workers with post-secondary education
- NOC TEER 0, 1, or 2 position
- Full-time, permanent, non-seasonal employment
- Meets provincial median wage for occupation
- Position is with designated employer in Atlantic province
Minimum Eligibility Criteria:
| Requirement | Minimum Standard |
|---|---|
| Work Experience | 1 year (1,560 hours) continuous work in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 within last 5 years |
| Education | Canadian post-secondary credential (1+ years) OR foreign credential with Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) demonstrating Canadian equivalency |
| Language Proficiency | CLB 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French (all four skills: speaking, listening, reading, writing) |
| Job Offer | NOC TEER 0, 1, or 2 with designated employer in Atlantic Canada |
Example Eligible Occupations:
- Restaurant managers (NOC 60010, TEER 0)
- Registered nurses (NOC 31301, TEER 1)
- Software developers (NOC 21232, TEER 1)
- Civil engineers (NOC 21300, TEER 1)
- Electricians (NOC 72200, TEER 2)
- Plumbers (NOC 72300, TEER 2)
- Licensed practical nurses (NOC 32101, TEER 2)
Category 2: Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program
Target Audience: Intermediate-skilled workers in occupations requiring high school education and several weeks/months of job-specific training
- NOC TEER 3 or 4 position
- Full-time, permanent, non-seasonal employment
- Meets provincial median wage for occupation
Minimum Eligibility Criteria:
| Requirement | Minimum Standard |
|---|---|
| Work Experience | 1 year (1,560 hours) continuous work in NOC TEER 2, 3, or 4 within last 5 years (TEER 3 offer) OR TEER 3 or 4 within last 5 years (TEER 4 offer) |
| Education | Canadian high school diploma OR foreign high school diploma with ECA demonstrating Canadian equivalency |
| Language Proficiency | TEER 3 job offer: CLB 4 (with employer commitment to support candidate in reaching CLB 5) TEER 4 job offer: CLB 4 |
| Job Offer | NOC TEER 3 or 4 with designated employer in Atlantic Canada |
Example Eligible Occupations:
- Food service supervisors (NOC 62020, TEER 3)
- Administrative assistants (NOC 13110, TEER 3)
- Dental assistants (NOC 33100, TEER 3)
- Truck drivers (NOC 73300, TEER 3)
- Retail salespersons (NOC 64100, TEER 4)
- Food counter attendants (NOC 65201, TEER 4)
- Hotel front desk clerks (NOC 64314, TEER 4)
- Home support workers (NOC 44101, TEER 4)
CRITICAL EMPLOYER OBLIGATION FOR TEER 4 POSITIONS:
“Where the Principal Applicant has applied with a TEER 4 job offer and the application for permanent residency has been refused by the Government of Canada, the employer will bear sole responsibility for costs to return the Principal Applicant to his or her country of origin.”
Employers offering TEER 4 positions assume financial liability for repatriation costs if PR applications are refused.
Category 3: Atlantic International Graduate Program
Target Audience: Recent graduates of publicly-funded Atlantic Canadian post-secondary institutions
- NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 position (TEER 4 also eligible with job offer)
- Full-time, permanent, non-seasonal employment
- Meets provincial median wage for occupation
Minimum Eligibility Criteria:
| Requirement | Minimum Standard |
|---|---|
| Education | Post-secondary credential (degree, diploma, certificate) from publicly-funded institution in Atlantic Canada (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador) |
| Physical Presence | Must have lived in Atlantic province for at least 16 months within 24 months prior to graduation (full-time study) |
| Graduation Timing | Applied for PR within 12 months of graduation |
| Language Proficiency | TEER 0, 1, 2, 3 job offers: CLB 5 TEER 4 job offers: CLB 4 |
| Work Experience | No prior work experience required |
| Job Offer | NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 with designated employer in Atlantic Canada |
Eligible Atlantic Institutions (Examples):
- University of New Brunswick (UNB)
- Mount Allison University
- St. Thomas University
- New Brunswick Community College (NBCC)
- Université de Moncton
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Dalhousie University
- University of Prince Edward Island
Strategic Advantage: International students graduating from Atlantic institutions can transition directly to permanent residence without prior Canadian work experience, making AIP one of the fastest study-to-PR pathways in Canada.
Employer Designation: Becoming AIP-Eligible
Who Can Become a Designated Employer?
Before sponsoring foreign workers through AIP, employers must be designated by the provincial government.
Eligibility Criteria for New Brunswick Employers:
✅ Business Operating in New Brunswick — Physical business location in province with active operations
✅ Established Business History — In operation under same management for at least 2 years in Atlantic Canada
✅ Good Standing — Compliant with federal/provincial employment standards, immigration laws, tax obligations
✅ Labour Market Need — Genuine vacancy that cannot be filled through domestic recruitment
✅ Welcoming Workplace Commitment — Demonstrated commitment to inclusive, diverse workplace culture
✅ Settlement Support Commitment — Agreement to support newcomer and family access to settlement services
✅ Training Completion — Mandatory Intercultural Competency Training and Onboarding Training (provided by IRCC)
Non-Eligible Employers:
❌ Employers with poor compliance history (unpaid wages, workplace safety violations, immigration violations)
❌ Businesses operating less than 2 years in Atlantic Canada
❌ Self-employed individuals or sole proprietors hiring themselves
❌ Employers involved in sexual services industry
❌ Employers with history of misrepresentation or fraud
How to Apply for Employer Designation
Application Process (New Brunswick):
Step 1: Complete Mandatory Training
- Intercultural Competency Training: Online module (2-3 hours) covering cultural sensitivity, workplace integration, anti-discrimination practices
- Access: Through IRCC portal at www.canada.ca/atlantic-immigration-training
- Certificate: Download and save certificate upon completion (required for endorsement applications)
- Onboarding Training: Orientation on AIP requirements, employer obligations, endorsement process
- Format: Online or webinar format
- Registration: Through IRCC or provincial immigration department
Step 2: Prepare Designation Application Documents
- Business registration documents (Articles of Incorporation, Business Number)
- Proof of 2+ years operation in Atlantic Canada (tax returns, financial statements, lease agreements)
- Organizational chart and employee roster
- Description of labour market needs and recruitment challenges
- Immigrant Settlement Agreement or commitment letter from settlement service provider
- Completed Certificate of Legal Advice (confirmation employer understands AIP obligations)
- Proof of Intercultural Competency Training completion
Step 3: Submit Designation Application
- Portal: Immigration New Brunswick (INB) online portal at https://inb.gnb.ca/
- Fee: No government fee for designation (free)
- Processing Time: 4-6 weeks for straightforward applications
Step 4: Receive Designation Letter
- Approval includes unique INB Employer Designation Number (required for all endorsement applications)
- Designation valid for 2 years; renewable before expiry
- Allows employer to submit endorsement applications for foreign worker candidates
VG Immigration Services assists employers with:
- Designation application preparation and document gathering
- Intercultural Competency Training coordination
- Settlement service provider partnerships
- INB portal navigation and submission
Settlement Plans: The AIP’s Unique Retention Mechanism
What is a Settlement Plan?
The settlement plan is a mandatory, pre-arrival needs assessment that identifies newcomers’ settlement needs and connects them with services in their destination community.
Purpose:
- Improve newcomer retention in Atlantic Canada (historically challenging)
- Identify settlement barriers early (housing, childcare, language training, credential recognition)
- Connect families to support services before arrival
- Set realistic expectations about life in Atlantic communities
Who Must Complete Settlement Plans:
- Principal applicant (foreign worker)
- Spouse/common-law partner (if accompanying)
- All accompanying family members over age 18
- Separate plans required for each adult family member
Settlement Plan Requirements
- Approved Immigrant Settlement Service Provider Organizations (SPOs)
- Organizations designated by provincial/federal governments to deliver pre-arrival and post-arrival settlement services
- Cannot be completed by employers, immigration consultants, or other third parties
New Brunswick Approved SPOs (Examples):
- Multicultural Association of Fredericton (MAF) — Services in English/French
- MAGMA (Multicultural Association of the Greater Moncton Area) — English/French
- Saint John Newcomers Centre — English
- Association régionale de la communauté francophone de Saint-John — French
- Réseau d’immigration francophone du Nouveau-Brunswick (RIFNB) — French
Finding SPOs: New Brunswick provides lists of approved organizations; consult INB website or contact AIP-PICA@gnb.ca.
Settlement Plan Contents
- Housing: Rental market orientation, housing affordability, pet-friendly options
- Language Training: English/French proficiency needs, available classes (online/in-person)
- Childcare: Daycare availability, costs, waitlists
- Education: School registration processes, credential recognition for children’s prior education
- Employment Support: Resume writing, job search assistance, networking opportunities
- Healthcare: How to register for provincial health insurance, finding family doctors
- Financial Services: Opening bank accounts, credit building, budgeting support
- Transportation: Driver’s license equivalency, public transit orientation
- Community Connections: Cultural organizations, religious communities, recreational activities
- Credential Recognition: Professional licensing steps (if applicable for regulated occupations)
Confidentiality:
“The Principal Applicant and their accompanying family member(s) or the immigrant settlement service provider organization have the right to exclude information that they deem sensitive from the version of the individualized settlement plan provided to the employer for the purpose of endorsement.”
Personal or sensitive information can be redacted before settlement plans are shared with employers.
Employer Settlement Obligations
Critical Requirement: By submitting endorsement applications, employers commit to facilitate access to, provide, and/or pay for settlement supports identified in settlement plans.
Specific Employer Commitments:
✅ Language Training Support:
- If government-funded language training (LINC, provincial programs) is unavailable within first 3 months, employer must arrange and fund alternative language training
- Commitment to support Principal Applicant in reaching CLB 5 (if below this level at arrival)
- Provide time off or flexible scheduling for language classes
✅ Settlement Service Access:
- Release employees from work to attend settlement appointments (orientation, needs assessments, workshops)
- Connect newcomers with SPOs for ongoing support
- Facilitate access in newcomer’s preferred official language (English or French)
✅ Financial Support (If Necessary):
- Cover costs for settlement services not provided by government-funded SPOs
- Examples: Private language tutoring, childcare during language classes, transportation to services
✅ Workplace Integration:
- Create welcoming, inclusive workplace environment
- Provide cultural orientation for existing staff
- Assign workplace mentors or buddies for newcomers
Failure to Honor Settlement Commitments:
- Provincial monitoring of employer compliance
- De-designation possible if employers fail to support settlement as committed
- Loss of ability to hire through AIP in future
The AIP Endorsement Application Process (New Brunswick)
Overview: Who Does What?
The AIP endorsement process involves three parties:
- Foreign Worker (Principal Applicant) — Registers in INB portal, gathers documents, submits final application
- Designated Employer — Completes endorsement forms, verifies recruitment, uploads job offer and settlement plan, sends Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Province of New Brunswick — Reviews endorsement application, approves/refuses, issues endorsement certificate
Step-by-Step Endorsement Application Process
Step 1: Candidate Registers in INB Portal
Candidate Actions:
- Access Portal: https://inb.gnb.ca/
- Register as New Candidate (if no existing INB account)
- Provide personal information (name, date of birth, email, passport details)
- Create password and security questions
- Complete Profile:
- Select “I want to work in New Brunswick”
- Provide contact information, education, work experience, language proficiency
- Agree to Terms and Conditions
- Select Program:
- Choose “Atlantic Immigration Program”
- Click “Start My Application”
- Enter Employer Information:
- INB Employer Designation Number (provided by employer)
- Upload signed job offer letter or employment contract (provided by employer)
- Send Request for Approval to Employer:
- Click “Send Approval Request to Employer” button
- System notifies employer via email
Candidate receives notification: “Your request has been sent to your employer. Please wait for employer approval.”
Step 2: Employer Receives Candidate Request and Prepares Endorsement Documents
Employer Receives Email Notification:
Subject: INB. New Notification / INB. Nouvelle notification
“A Notification has been added to your INB Employer Profile. Please log in to the INB Portal to view your Notification.”
Employer Actions:
2A. Log Into INB Employer Portal
- Access https://inb.gnb.ca/
- Navigate to Notification Center
- View candidate’s endorsement request
2B. Access Candidate Profile in “Endorsee Pool”
- Click “Details” button next to candidate’s name
- Review candidate’s expression of interest and profile information
2C. Prepare and Upload Seven Required Documents:
Document Checklist:
| # | Document | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Intercultural Competency Training Certificate | Proof employer completed mandatory ICC training | Download from IRCC training portal |
| 2 | Endorsement Application Form | Provincial form detailing position, recruitment, candidate info, settlement commitments | Fillable PDF available in INB portal; both employer and candidate must sign |
| 3 | Employment Offer Letter | Formal job offer signed by employer and candidate | Must include job title, NOC code, duties, wage, hours, location, duration (permanent) |
| 4 | Settlement Plan / Needs Assessment | Completed by approved SPO for principal applicant and adult family members | Candidate obtains from SPO; provides to employer |
| 5 | Job Advertisement | Proof of domestic recruitment efforts | Copies of job postings (Job Bank, Indeed, provincial job boards) with posting dates |
| 6 | IMM 0157 – Offer of Employment to a Foreign National | Federal IRCC form | Fillable PDF; employer and candidate sign; confirms wage, position details |
| 7 | Position Description | Detailed job duties, requirements, working conditions | Must align with NOC duties and job advertisement |
2D. Upload Documents to INB Portal
- Navigate to “Checklist” tab in candidate’s profile
- Click PDF icons to access fillable forms
- Upload completed, signed documents in each indicated section
2E. Send Invitation to Apply (ITA)
- Once all seven documents uploaded, navigate to “Action” tab
- “Send ITA Letter” button becomes enabled
- Click button to send ITA to candidate
Candidate Receives Email Notification:
Subject: INB. New Notification / INB. Nouvelle notification
“An Invitation to Apply has been issued to you. Please log in to the INB Portal to view your notification.”
Step 3: Candidate Completes and Submits Endorsement Application
Candidate Actions:
- Log Into INB Portal
- Access notification center
- View ITA letter attachment (confirms employer has submitted documents)
- Accept ITA and Continue Application
- Click “Continue” button on dashboard
- System activates application for completion
- Complete Candidate Application Sections:
- Personal Information: Name, date of birth, citizenship, passport details
- Family Information: Spouse/common-law partner details, dependent children (names, DOB, citizenship)
- Education: All post-secondary credentials (degrees, diplomas, certificates)
- Work Experience: Detailed employment history (job titles, employers, dates, duties)
- Language Proficiency: Test results (IELTS, CELPIP, TEF, TCF)
- Upload Required Candidate Documents:
| Document | Description |
|---|---|
| Official Language Test Results | IELTS General Training, CELPIP General, TEF Canada, or TCF Canada (valid within 2 years) showing CLB/NCLC levels |
| Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) | From designated organization (WES, IQAS, ICAS, etc.) OR Canadian diploma/transcripts (if Canadian education) |
| Letters of Employment | Reference letters from previous employers documenting qualifying work experience (job duties, dates, hours/week) |
| Work Permit (if in Canada) | Copy of current work permit (if candidate already working in Canada) |
| Passport Identification Page | Biographical page showing name, photo, date of birth, passport number, expiry |
- Review and Submit Application
- Confirm all information accurate and complete
- E-sign declaration section
- Click “Submit” button
Application Status: “Under Review by Province”
Step 4: Provincial Review and Decision
New Brunswick Immigration Reviews:
✅ Employer Eligibility:
- Employer designation valid and in good standing
- Business meets 2-year operation requirement
- No compliance violations or sanctions
✅ Position Genuineness:
- Job offer is full-time, permanent, non-seasonal
- Wage meets provincial median for occupation/region
- Labour market need documented through recruitment efforts
✅ Candidate Eligibility:
- Meets work experience requirements (1 year qualifying experience)
- Meets education requirements (post-secondary or high school + ECA)
- Meets language requirements (CLB 4 or 5 depending on TEER)
- Settlement plan completed by approved SPO
✅ Recruitment Verification:
- Employer conducted domestic recruitment (Job Bank + additional advertising minimum 4 weeks)
- Summary of applications shows no suitable Canadian/PR candidates
- Recruitment timeline and efforts documented
Processing Time: 4-8 weeks for complete applications
Possible Outcomes:
✅ APPROVED — Endorsement Certificate Issued
- Employer and candidate receive endorsement certificate via email/INB portal
- Certificate includes unique endorsement number
- Valid for 4 months from issue date (candidate must apply to IRCC within this window)
- Certificate is non-transferable (tied to specific candidate and employer)
❌ REFUSED — Application Denied
- Reasons provided (e.g., incomplete documents, candidate doesn’t meet eligibility, recruitment insufficient)
- Employer may address issues and reapply (if annual endorsement cap not reached)
⚠️ REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Province may request clarification or additional documents before decision
- Candidate/employer have specified timeframe to respond (typically 30 days)
Step 5: Candidate Applies to IRCC for Permanent Residence
Once Endorsement Certificate Received:
Deadline: Candidate must apply to IRCC for permanent residence within 90 days of endorsement certificate issue date.
Application Submission:
- Create IRCC Online Account (if not already registered)
- Complete Federal PR Application Forms:
- IMM 0008 — Generic Application Form for Canada (Principal Applicant)
- IMM 0008DEP — Additional Dependants/Declaration (if applicable)
- IMM 5669 — Schedule A — Background/Declaration (each family member 18+)
- IMM 5406 — Additional Family Information (all family members)
- Upload Documents:
- Provincial endorsement certificate (from New Brunswick)
- Passports (principal applicant and all family members)
- Language test results
- Educational credentials and ECAs
- Employment reference letters
- Police certificates (from all countries lived 6+ months since age 18)
- Medical examination results (from IRCC-approved panel physician)
- Proof of funds (if not working in Canada at time of application)
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Birth certificates (for dependent children)
- Pay Fees:
- PR application processing fee: $1,365 CAD (principal applicant) + $1,365 (spouse) + $230 (per dependent child)
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): $515 (principal applicant) + $515 (spouse)
- Total for couple with no children: $3,760 CAD
- Submit Application:
- Review completeness
- E-sign declarations
- Submit electronically
IRCC Processing Time: 80% of AIP applications processed within 12 months (some faster; some longer depending on complexity, security screening, medical issues).
During Processing:
- Candidate can apply for AIP-specific work permit (LMIA-exempt code C18) to work for designated employer while PR processes (see Section below)
- IRCC may request additional documents, interviews, or clarification
- Status updates available through IRCC online account
Final Decision:
- Approved: Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) issued; candidate lands in Canada as permanent resident
- Refused: Reasons provided; limited appeal options (judicial review)
AIP Work Permits: Working While PR Application Processes
Employer-Specific Work Permit (Code C18)
Endorsed AIP candidates can obtain temporary work permits to begin working for their designated employer while permanent residence applications are processed.
Work Permit Eligibility:
✅ Valid provincial endorsement certificate
✅ Submitted (or committed to submit within 90 days) IRCC permanent residence application under AIP
✅ Valid job offer from designated employer
✅ Proof of language proficiency, education, and work experience
Application Process:
Option A: Apply from Outside Canada (Most Common)
- Gather Documents:
- Provincial endorsement certificate
- Job offer letter (IMM 0157)
- Proof of commitment to apply for PR within 90 days (signed letter/declaration)
- Language test results
- Educational credentials/ECA
- Employment reference letters
- Passport
- Submit Online Work Permit Application:
- Create IRCC account
- Complete IMM 5710 or IMM 5257 (depending on location)
- Select LMIA exemption: C18 – Atlantic Immigration Program
- Upload documents
- Pay fees: $155 work permit + $85 biometrics (if required)
- Processing Time: 2-8 weeks depending on visa office
- Receive Work Permit:
- Approval letter issued
- Present at Port of Entry to receive physical work permit
- Enter Canada and begin work
Option B: Apply at Port of Entry (If Visa-Exempt)
- US citizens and visa-exempt nationals can apply for C18 work permit at Canadian border
- Bring all documents (endorsement certificate, job offer, language results, etc.)
- CBSA officer reviews and issues work permit same day (if approved)
- Higher risk of refusal without opportunity to address concerns
Work Permit Validity:
- Typically issued for 12-24 months (aligned with expected PR processing time)
- Tied to specific designated employer (cannot change employers without new work permit)
- Can be extended if PR processing exceeds initial validity period
VG Immigration Services coordinates work permit applications for AIP candidates, ensuring documentation meets IRCC requirements and timing aligns with endorsement certificate validity.
Recruitment Requirements: Proving Labour Market Need
Domestic Recruitment Obligations
Even though AIP is LMIA-exempt, employers must demonstrate genuine efforts to recruit Canadian citizens and permanent residents before hiring foreign workers.
Minimum Recruitment Standards (New Brunswick):
1. Job Advertisement Duration:
- Minimum 4 weeks of active job posting
- Must be completed within 3 months before endorsement application submission
2. Required Advertising Platforms:
✅ Mandatory: Canada Job Bank (federal government job portal)
✅ Additional: At least one of the following:
- Provincial job boards (e.g., JobsNB, WorkNB)
- National online job sites (Indeed, Monster, LinkedIn)
- Industry-specific job boards or professional associations
- Print media (newspapers) if targeting local audience
3. Advertisement Content Requirements:
- Job title matching NOC occupation
- Detailed job duties (aligning with NOC description)
- Minimum education and work experience requirements
- Language requirements (must be English or French only — cannot require third language as hiring criterion)
- Wage and benefits
- Work location (city, New Brunswick)
- Employer name and contact information
- Application instructions
4. Documentation of Recruitment Efforts:
Employers must provide:
- Copies of job postings (screenshots showing posting dates and content)
- Proof of posting dates (email confirmations, Job Bank posting history)
- Summary of applications received:
- Number of applications
- Number of Canadian citizens/PRs who applied
- Reasons Canadian/PR candidates were not selected (e.g., “lacked required experience,” “did not meet language requirements,” “did not respond to interview invitation”)
- Do NOT include personal identifying information (names, addresses) of unsuccessful candidates
5. Special Circumstances:
If Candidate is Related to Employer:
- Must explain family relationship
- Must justify hiring family member over other candidates
- Increased scrutiny to ensure genuine labour market need (not family reunification disguised as employment)
If Candidate is Shareholder, Director, or Investor:
- Must disclose ownership/investment percentage
- Must justify hiring self or related party over other candidates
- AIP is not designed for self-employed applicants — sole proprietors cannot hire themselves
Common Endorsement Application Refusal Reasons
Why Applications Are Denied and How to Avoid Refusals
Refusal Reason 1: Insufficient or Incomplete Recruitment Evidence
Problem: Employer did not advertise for minimum 4 weeks, did not use required platforms, or did not provide adequate summary of applications.
VG Prevention Strategy:
- Document recruitment meticulously: Save screenshots, emails, applicant communications
- Use Job Bank + at least one additional platform (Indeed, provincial job board)
- Create detailed spreadsheet of all applicants with reasons for non-selection (without personal info)
- Conduct recruitment at least 1-2 months before endorsement application to allow full 4-week window
Refusal Reason 2: Candidate Does Not Meet Minimum Federal Eligibility
Problem: Candidate lacks required work experience, education, or language proficiency.
Examples:
- Applying for TEER 1 job but candidate only has TEER 4 work experience (not qualifying)
- Language test shows CLB 4 but TEER 0/1/2 position requires CLB 5
- Foreign education credential has no ECA (province cannot verify equivalency)
VG Prevention Strategy:
- Verify candidate’s work experience aligns with AIP category requirements (see eligibility tables above)
- Ensure language test results meet CLB/NCLC minimums for job offer TEER level
- Obtain valid ECA before endorsement application (WES, IQAS, ICAS results take 4-8 weeks)
- Review federal AIP eligibility criteria carefully before selecting candidates
Refusal Reason 3: Settlement Plan Missing or Incomplete
Problem: Employer did not include settlement plan in endorsement application, or plan was not completed by approved SPO.
VG Prevention Strategy:
- Connect candidate with approved SPO before beginning endorsement application
- Confirm SPO is on New Brunswick’s approved provider list
- Ensure settlement plans completed for principal applicant AND all accompanying adult family members
- Review settlement plan for completeness (all sections addressed, SPO contact info included)
Refusal Reason 4: Job Offer Not Genuine or Not Meeting Program Requirements
Problem: Province determines job offer is not genuine full-time permanent employment, or wage is below provincial median.
Examples:
- Position is seasonal or temporary contract (AIP requires permanent full-time)
- Wage offered is $15/hour but provincial median for occupation is $22/hour
- Job duties described in offer letter do not match NOC requirements
- Employer has no evidence of actual business operations (shell company)
VG Prevention Strategy:
- Confirm job offer is permanent, full-time (minimum 30 hours/week, year-round)
- Verify wage meets/exceeds provincial median using Job Bank Wage Report for occupation and region
- Align job duties in offer letter, position description, and job advertisement with NOC description
- Provide business evidence (CRA business number, financial statements, lease agreements, operational photos)
Refusal Reason 5: Employer De-Designated or Not in Good Standing
Problem: Employer’s designation expired, was revoked, or employer has compliance violations.
Causes:
- Designation expired and not renewed
- Previous AIP employees reported workplace issues (unpaid wages, unsafe conditions, harassment)
- Employer failed to honor settlement support commitments for past AIP candidates
- Employer misrepresented information in previous applications
VG Prevention Strategy:
- Monitor designation expiry dates; renew at least 3 months before expiration
- Maintain excellent workplace compliance (pay wages on time, follow employment standards, provide safe working conditions)
- Honor all settlement commitments in writing for past AIP employees
- Be transparent and accurate in all application materials
Endorsement Compliance and Employer Responsibilities
Ongoing Obligations After Endorsement Approval
Employers Must:
✅ Notify New Brunswick When Candidate Arrives:
- Inform province when endorsed candidate enters Canada and begins work
- Provide start date and confirmation of employment commencement
✅ Maintain Employment Offer:
- Provide same wage, hours, duties, and working conditions as stated in endorsement application
- Failure to do so may result in endorsement rescission and/or de-designation
✅ Support Settlement Services:
- Facilitate access to settlement services identified in settlement plan
- Release employee for language classes, settlement appointments
- Fund settlement services if government-funded options unavailable
✅ Report Material Changes:
- Notify province if:
- Company ownership changes
- Business is sold
- Business closes (permanently or temporarily)
- Endorsed employee resigns or is terminated
- Terms of employment change materially (wage, position, location)
✅ Cooperate with Provincial Monitoring:
- Respond to compliance inspections or requests for information
- Provide employment records (pay stubs, T4s) if requested to verify wage payment
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Province May:
❌ Rescind Endorsement Certificate:
- If job offer not genuine or based on fraudulent information
- If candidate does not have genuine intent to work in position
- If disqualifying information discovered after endorsement issued
❌ De-Designate Employer:
- If employer fails to honor settlement commitments
- If employer violates employment standards or immigration laws
- If employer misrepresents information or commits fraud
- Duration: 1-5 years depending on severity
❌ Refuse Future Applications:
- Employer banned from hiring through AIP for specified period
- Individual associated with fraudulent application may be banned for up to 5 years
Impact on Candidate:
- If endorsement rescinded before PR application submitted → Candidate cannot apply for PR under AIP
- If endorsement rescinded after PR application submitted but before approval → IRCC may refuse PR application
- If employer de-designated after candidate begins working → Candidate’s work permit may become invalid
VG Immigration Services emphasizes compliance counseling for employers to protect both business interests and endorsed candidates’ PR pathways.
AIP Success Rates and Processing Times (2026 Data)
Current Statistics
New Brunswick AIP Endorsement Caps:
- 2025: 1,250 endorsement spaces (reached cap April 4, 2025)
- 2026: Expected similar or higher allocation (confirmed open as of January 28, 2026)
- Provincial Endorsement Review: 4-8 weeks (complete applications)
- IRCC Permanent Residence Processing: 12 months (80% processed within this standard)
- Work Permit Processing: 2-8 weeks (online applications from outside Canada)
Approval Rates:
- High approval rates for complete, well-documented applications (estimated 85-90% for candidates meeting eligibility and employers meeting recruitment standards)
- Refusals primarily due to incomplete documents, insufficient recruitment, or candidate eligibility gaps
Retention Rates:
- AIP’s settlement plan requirement designed to improve retention
- Atlantic provinces report higher retention among AIP immigrants compared to historical newcomer retention (target: 70%+ remaining in province after 5 years)
Strategic Tips for AIP Success
For Foreign Workers
Tip 1: Start Settlement Planning Early
- Contact approved SPO as soon as you have job offer (before endorsement application)
- Settlement plan takes 1-2 weeks to complete; don’t delay endorsement timeline
Tip 2: Ensure Work Experience is Well-Documented
- Obtain detailed reference letters from previous employers on company letterhead
- Include job title, duties (matching NOC description), employment dates, hours per week, supervisor name/contact
- Anticipate difficulty obtaining references and start early
Tip 3: Take Language Tests Strategically
- Know your required CLB/NCLC level for your job offer TEER category
- IELTS General Training and CELPIP General accepted for English; TEF Canada and TCF Canada for French
- Test results valid 2 years; plan timing to ensure validity through PR application
Tip 4: Get ECA for Foreign Credentials
- Designate organization (WES, IQAS, ICAS) takes 6-12 weeks
- Required even if you believe your education is equivalent to Canadian credential
- Start ECA process 3-4 months before expected endorsement application
Tip 5: Research Your Destination Community
- Visit New Brunswick virtually (municipality websites, Facebook groups, YouTube videos)
- Understand housing costs, job market, climate, amenities
- Realistic expectations improve retention and settlement success
Contact VG Immigration Services for comprehensive pre-arrival guidance and application support.
For Employers
Tip 1: Complete Designation and Training Before Recruiting
- Don’t promise job offers to candidates until you’re designated
- Intercultural Competency Training and Onboarding Training take 3-5 hours total; complete early
Tip 2: Document Recruitment Exhaustively
- Treat recruitment as if preparing for audit
- Save everything: job posting screenshots, applicant emails, interview notes
- Create spreadsheet tracking all applicants and reasons for non-selection
Tip 3: Build Settlement Service Provider Relationships
- Contact local SPOs before first AIP hire
- Understand service availability, capacity, wait times
- Budget for alternative settlement supports if government-funded services unavailable
Tip 4: Budget for Full Recruitment and Settlement Costs
Typical Employer Costs for AIP Hiring:
- Designation: $0 (free)
- Job advertising: $200-500 (Job Bank free; Indeed/LinkedIn paid postings)
- Settlement support commitments: $0-$2,000+ (if private language training required)
- Legal/immigration consultant fees: $2,000-$5,000 (VG Immigration Services full-service endorsement support)
- Relocation support (optional but recommended): $1,000-$3,000 (temporary housing, transportation)
Tip 5: Plan for Long-Term Retention
- AIP is pathway to permanent residence; candidates expect stable, long-term employment
- Provide clear career progression opportunities
- Foster inclusive workplace culture
- Support family integration into community
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply for AIP if I’m already working in Canada on a different work permit?
Yes. If you’re in Canada on a valid work permit (LMIA-based, Post-Graduation Work Permit, spousal open work permit, etc.) and have a job offer from a designated Atlantic employer, you can apply for AIP. Your existing work permit must be included in endorsement application.
Q2: Does my foreign work experience have to be in the same occupation as my Atlantic job offer?
No. Your qualifying work experience must be in a TEER category that meets program requirements for your application stream (see eligibility tables), but it does not have to be the exact same NOC as your job offer.
Example: You have 1 year work experience as administrative assistant (NOC 13110, TEER 3) in your home country. You receive Atlantic job offer as retail supervisor (NOC 62010, TEER 3). This qualifies for Atlantic High-Skilled Program because both are skilled positions and you have 1 year TEER 3 experience.
Q3: Can my spouse work in Canada while my AIP permanent residence application processes?
Yes. Your spouse can apply for an open work permit if you have:
- Valid AIP work permit (employer-specific C18)
- Submitted permanent residence application under AIP
- Working in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 position
Your spouse’s open work permit allows them to work for any employer in any occupation in Canada.
Q4: What happens if my employer goes out of business after I receive endorsement but before PR is approved?
Critical situation. If employer closes or is de-designated:
- Before PR application submitted: Endorsement may be rescinded; you cannot apply for PR under AIP with that endorsement
- After PR application submitted: IRCC may continue processing if you can demonstrate intent to live/work in Atlantic Canada or obtain new job offer from another designated employer
Consult immigration lawyer immediately if employer closes during your AIP process.
Q5: Can I include my adult children (over 22) in my AIP application?
Only if they are dependent children meeting IRCC’s definition:
- Under age 22 and not married/common-law, OR
- Age 22+ but dependent on you due to physical or mental condition preventing self-support
Adult children over 22 who are not dependent due to disability typically cannot be included.
How VG Immigration Services Can Help
At VG Immigration Services Inc., we provide end-to-end support for both employers and foreign workers navigating New Brunswick’s Atlantic Immigration Program:
For Employers:
✅ Employer Designation Applications: Document preparation, training coordination, INB portal submission
✅ Endorsement Application Management: Complete preparation of all seven required documents, recruitment verification, INB portal navigation
✅ Settlement Service Provider Coordination: Connecting with approved SPOs, facilitating settlement plan completion
✅ Compliance Monitoring: Ongoing support to ensure settlement commitments honored and designation maintained
✅ Multi-Candidate Management: Supporting employers hiring multiple AIP workers simultaneously
For Foreign Workers:
✅ AIP Eligibility Assessments: Comprehensive profile review against program requirements
✅ Document Preparation: Reference letter templates, job description alignment, settlement plan coordination
✅ INB Portal Registration and Application: Step-by-step guidance through candidate portal
✅ IRCC Permanent Residence Applications: Full-service PR application preparation after endorsement
✅ Work Permit Applications: C18 employer-specific work permit coordination
✅ Family Sponsorship: Including spouses and dependent children in applications
✅ Settlement Planning: Pre-arrival orientation, community connections, credential recognition guidance
Book an appointment to begin your Atlantic Immigration Program journey:
📧 immigration@vgis.ca
📞 +1 (416) 578-9269
Conclusion: Why AIP Offers One of Canada’s Best PR Pathways
The Atlantic Immigration Program represents a uniquely accessible, employer-driven pathway to permanent residence that combines the speed and simplicity of LMIA-exempt work permits with comprehensive settlement support designed for long-term retention. With 12-month PR processing for 80% of applicants, lower eligibility barriers than Express Entry (accepting TEER 4 positions, CLB 4 language for some streams), and mandatory pre-arrival settlement planning, AIP offers foreign workers and employers a clear roadmap to successful immigration outcomes in New Brunswick and Atlantic Canada.
For employers facing persistent labour shortages in skilled trades, healthcare, hospitality, technology, and manufacturing sectors, AIP provides rapid access to global talent without the $1,000 LMIA fees, 6-month processing delays, and recruitment uncertainty of standard work permits. For skilled workers and international graduates seeking permanent residence in Canada, AIP offers a realistic pathway that doesn’t require ultra-high Express Entry scores, years of Canadian work experience, or Provincial Nominee Program lotteries.
At VG Immigration Services Inc., we’ve successfully guided dozens of employers and foreign workers through the AIP endorsement process, achieving high approval rates through meticulous documentation, strategic planning, and comprehensive settlement support. Whether you’re a New Brunswick employer seeking to fill critical vacancies or a skilled worker pursuing permanent residence in Atlantic Canada, we’re here to make your AIP journey successful.
Don’t wait — New Brunswick’s 2026 AIP endorsement cap will fill quickly. Start your application today.
👉 Contact us for a free initial consultation
👉 Book an appointment to begin your AIP endorsement application
📧 immigration@vgis.ca
📞 +1 (416) 578-9269
VG Immigration Services Inc. — Your trusted Atlantic Immigration Program partner in Canada and beyond.