Atlantic Immigration Program Now Permanent

Atlantic Immigration Program launched by IRCC

March 4, 2022 Ottawa –  The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program, which was a 5-year pilot program to drive immigration to Atlantic Canada, welcomed over 12,700 newcomers across the region. It fulfilled its aim of strengthening communities and helping businesses succeed. Due to the pilot program’s success, it is now being made a permanent program by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Today, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that applications for the new program will launch on March 6, 2022. Candidates with a valid endorsement from an Atlantic Canadian business will now be able to submit applications for permanent residence under the new permanent program. This dynamic program will help the Atlantic provinces attract more skilled newcomers to fuel our economic recovery and drive further growth in the region.

Since 2017, participating employers have made over 9,800 job offers in key sectors, including in health care, manufacturing, accommodations and food services. More significantly, over 90% of applicants were still living in the region after a year. This is a testament to the resilient and welcoming nature of Atlantic Canadian communities.

“Newcomers have played a key role in strengthening communities across Atlantic Canada and helping businesses succeed. By working closely with employers and our provincial partners, the Atlantic Immigration Program will attract highly skilled workers and international graduates to our region, and it will help rebuild our economy, address our labour shortage and build a prosperous future for Atlantic Canada.”  – The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

• The previous pilot program is now closed; applications are no longer being accepted.
• The regulations for the permanent Atlantic Immigration Program came into force on January 1, 2022.
• With at least 6,000 admission spaces available yearly, this program will complement the Provincial Nominee Programs in each Atlantic province.
• In 2018–2019, the Atlantic provinces saw their highest population growth since the 1970s, with immigration, including from the pilot, being the main driver of this trend.

Want to Know More? Get the FAQs here! Interested to apply? Contact us to get started.

______________________