Complete AIP work permit applications virtually now

Canada’s immigration department has begun accepting online applications for work permits that will be issued under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP) program. If you are a prospective applicant, you should be able to submit your work permit applications virtually without any problems.

On August 17, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) began to accept online applications for AIP work permits. Paper applications will still be accepted, but only until September 1, 2020.

The AIP is a preferred pathway for foreign nationals with a job offer who want to secure permanent residence in any of Canada’s Atlantic provinces, namely Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador or New Brunswick. Candidates must get a legal work permit to work in Canada before they apply for permanent immigration.

Requirements for a work permit

Candidates will require the following in order to qualify:

• a valid job offer from an employer in one of the Atlantic provinces
• a referral letter from the destination province
• a commitment to submitting an application for permanent residence within 90 days of getting the temporary work permit application

What to do after receiving a job offer?

After meeting all these requirements, candidates will be eligible for the one-year employer-specific work permit. Moreover, the foreign national’s partner could qualify for Spouses and Common-Law Partners program. Atlantic Canada employers will not have to complete a Labour Market Impact Assessment via this program.

If the candidate decides to accept the job offer, the employer should help the candidate connect with a designated settlement service provider organization who will provide a needs assessment and help develop a settlement plan. Employers are expected to contribute to the long-term integration of newcomers. This will help new immigrants to settle down permanently.