The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program or AIPP has been a popular name for immigrants looking to set foot into Canada. However, there are few ins and outs about the structure of the same. There also exists few application related information that might not always be clear for applicants.
The AIPP began back in 2017 as part of initiative between the Atlantic Provinces and the Canadian federal government. The Atlantic Provinces comprise Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia.
Why AIPP?
The primary aim of the program was to bring in and then retain skilled talents into the local pool. These Atlantic Provinces have traditionally seen sparse populations as well as lesser attraction among nee immigrants. With this program, the government tried to build up settlers who had experience and education.
Approval Matters
The government maintains a list of AIPP-approved employers. Make sure you check those up first, before planning to tap the program. There will be other parameters to consider too. Knowing what employers have the sanction, must be the first step to take.
Getting Endorsed First
Before you process and complete your application for AIPP, you must remember that you need to get a provincial attestation or endorsement before the final submission to IRCC or the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada department.
Annual Span for Permit
Not many applicants remember or take note of the fact that once these primary requirements fall in place, and the secondary processes get complete, you are issued a permit for work, spanning just a year. However, this permit will be free from the clutches of the Labor Market Impact Assessment or LMIA.
Not a Point based Program
Another vital insider tip to remember at all points is the AIPP is a first come, first serve based program. There is no point accrual involved. Broadly speaking, the program comes divided into two categories. These are as follows-
- The Atlantic High-Skilled Program
- Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program
- Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program
Each province under the AIPP has to designate and endorse the employers who look to hire labor from the candidate pool of AIPP. Once an applicant gets both these steps processed from an eligible employer, there can be scope to apply for PR via IRCC.
Criteria for Employers to get Designated
- Own a business that operates in good standing
- Reveal all information related to labor needs
- Show commitment for working with an organization providing services on retention and settlement
Criteria for Employers to get Endorsed
- Ability to prove that hiring local talents was a failed plan
- Deal with recruitment of foreign workers
- Ability to offer non seasonal and full time job offer that is co signed by a foreign skilled labor
The biggest advantage of AIPP is that once you receive a work permit via this route, your other half can apply for an open work permit as well. Check the application process and if you feel the AIPP meets your needs, go ahead and seal the deal.