Investigating Options for Immigration to Atlantic Canada

The Atlantic region of Canada is made up of four provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, and Labrador. According to Canada's most recent census, the share of immigrants settling in Atlantic Canada has nearly tripled in the last decade and a half. In fact, the percentage of Canadian immigrants that have chosen to call Atlantic Canada home has risen from 1.2% in 2006 to 3.5% in 2021.

If you are interested in immigrating to Atlantic Canada, the following will outline a few possible immigration paths.

 

Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) was officially introduced on January 1, 2022. This program allows foreign nationals with an existing job offer in Atlantic Canada to be exempt from obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Once the candidate has accepted the job, the employer will connect the candidate with a designated settlement service provider organization for a needs assessment and the development of a settlement plan. Employers will also support the long-term integration of the newcomer and their families in Atlantic Canada, helping to ensure a smooth transition for immigrants through the AIP.

 

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Eleven of Canada's thirteen provinces and territories, excluding Quebec and Nunavut, operate a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that allows the province/territory to select foreign nationals who may best help address provincial or territorial labour market needs. Among the four provinces that make up Atlantic Canada, these programs include:

 

New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP)

The NBPNP contains the following five streams:

• Express Entry Stream: For foreign nationals who are best suited to help the province meet its specific demographic and labour market needs/goals.
• Skilled Workers Stream: Candidates must hold a full-time, permanent job offer.
• Business Immigration Stream: Applicants to this stream must have plans for owning and actively managing a business.
• Strategic Initiative Stream: Specific to francophone immigrants, this stream welcomes those who have the skills, education, and work experience to contribute to the province and want to reside/work permanently in NB.
• Critical Worker Pilot Project: Six employers designated by the government have the ability to recruit skilled immigrants to address labour shortages.

 

Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Nominee Program (NLPNP)

The NLPNP has five streams:

• Newfoundland and Labrador Express Entry Skilled Worker: For foreign skilled workers who have an Express Entry profile active in the Federal Pool of eligible candidates and hold an existing job offer.
• Skilled Worker Category: For skilled workers with a job offer, including individuals already in NL who have a valid work permit.
• International Graduate Category: A stream for recent graduates who hold a job offer as well as a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP).
• International Entrepreneur Category: Applicants through this stream want to start, co-manage, or purchase a business in NL after having operated a business for at least one year on a work permit in the province.
• International Graduate Entrepreneur Category: This stream is reserved for graduates of a post-secondary institution in NL that want to establish, co-own, or run a business.

 

Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP)

There are nine different pathways contained within the NSNP:

• Nova Scotia Experience (Express Entry): This stream does not require a job offer but is reserved for those with an Express Entry profile active in the Federal Pool of eligible candidates.
• Nova Scotia Labour Market Priorities: For those with an active and valid Express Entry profile. In this case, applicants must also have received a letter of Interest from the province with an invitation to apply.
• Nova Scotia Demand: Express Entry: This stream is for skilled workers who have a job offer from a Nova Scotia employer and are in the Express Entry pool.
• Nova Scotia Skilled Worker: This stream is for skilled workers who have a job offer from a Nova Scotia employer and are not in the Express Entry pool.
• Nova Scotia Entrepreneur: This stream is for individuals who want to start a business in Nova Scotia and have a net worth of at least $600,000 and at least 3 years of experience managing a business.
• Nova Scotia International Graduate Entrepreneur: This stream is for recent graduates of a Nova Scotia university or community college who have started or bought a business in the province and want to stay and work in Nova Scotia.
• Nova Scotia Physician: This stream is for physicians who have been offered a job in Nova Scotia.
• Nova Scotia Agri-Food Sector: This stream is for individuals with experience in the agriculture or agri-food sector who want to work and live in Nova Scotia.

Each of these streams has specific criteria, such as language proficiency, work experience, education, and other factors that must be met in order to be eligible. The process of applying for the NSNP can be complex, and it is recommended that applicants seek the help of a qualified immigration consultant or lawyer.

 

Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)

The PEI PNP has three streams:

• Express Entry: For candidates who have an active Express Entry profile and meet the criteria for the Federal Skilled Worker Program or Canadian Experience Class.
• Business Impact: For entrepreneurs who want to start or purchase a business in PEI.
• Work Permit: For candidates who have a valid work permit and a job offer from an Island employer.

Regardless of which stream you choose to apply through, you will be required to meet certain eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation. It is important to review the specific requirements for each stream before applying.

 

Immigrating to Atlantic Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide

• Research the different immigration options available to you through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other federal programs.
• Determine which province or territory you would like to settle in, and familiarize yourself with the specific immigration options available to you in that province or territory.
• Review the eligibility criteria for the various immigration options and ensure that you meet the required qualifications.
• Gather all necessary documentation, including your passport, birth certificate, educational and professional qualifications, and any other relevant documents.
• Create an Express Entry profile if you are applying through one of the Express Entry streams.
• Secure a job offer from an employer in Atlantic Canada if you are applying through one of the AIP or PNP streams that require a job offer.
• Submit your application and pay the required fees.
• Once your application has been received, it will be reviewed and processed by the relevant immigration authorities. You may be required to attend an interview or provide additional information.
• If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of confirmation and instructions on how to proceed.
• Arrange for your travel to Canada and plan for your arrival and settlement in Atlantic Canada.

 

Tips for Successful Immigration to Atlantic Canada

• Start early: The immigration process can take several months or even years to complete. The earlier you begin the process, the more time you will have to gather all necessary documentation and prepare for your move to Canada.
• Be prepared: Make sure you have all the necessary documents and qualifications required to apply for immigration. Review the eligibility criteria for the different immigration options and ensure that you meet the requirements.
• Network: Building connections with people in Atlantic Canada can be beneficial for your job search and settlement. Join professional organizations, attend networking events, and use social media to connect with people in your field.
• Learn about the culture and lifestyle: Familiarize yourself with the customs and culture of the province or territory you plan to settle in. This will help you adjust to your new home more easily.
• Seek help: If you need assistance with the immigration process, seek help from a qualified immigration lawyer or consultant. They can provide you with guidance and support throughout the process.

The Atlantic provinces of Canada are becoming an increasingly popular destination for immigrants. With a growing economy and a high standard of living, Atlantic Canada offers many opportunities for those looking to start a new life in Canada. The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) and the Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are just a few of the many options available to those looking to immigrate to Atlantic Canada.

 

How Pelican Migration Consultants help you?

Pelican Migration Consultants can help individuals investigate options for immigration to Canada by providing expert guidance and assistance throughout the process. This can include:

1. Identifying the best immigration pathway for your individual circumstances and qualifications, including the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) and other programs offered by the Atlantic provinces.
2. Assessing your eligibility for various programs and providing a detailed analysis of your chances of success.
3. Preparing and submitting your application, including gathering and organizing all necessary documentation and ensuring that your application is complete and meets all requirements.
4. Communicating with immigration officials on your behalf, answering any questions they may have, and addressing any issues that may arise during the application process.
5. Providing ongoing support and advice throughout the entire process, from initial application to final approval.

By working with Pelican Migration Consultants, you can greatly increase your chances of successfully immigrating to Atlantic Canada and achieving your goal of living and working in this beautiful region of Canada. Contact our Canada Immigration Consultants today.