Atlantic Immigration Program Update: Temporary Pause in New Brunswick

September 18, 2024, marked a significant update to the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), a key initiative aimed at attracting skilled foreign workers and international graduates to Canada’s Atlantic provinces. This program offers a pathway to permanent residency and strengthens the local economies of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. However, New Brunswick has announced a temporary pause on new endorsement applications under the AIP for the remainder of 2024.

Overview of the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

Launched as a pilot in 2017 and made permanent in 2022, the Atlantic Immigration Program addresses labour shortages in Atlantic Canada by allowing designated employers to hire foreign nationals for roles they can’t fill locally. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as holding a job offer from a designated employer and being either a recent graduate of a recognized institution in Atlantic Canada or an experienced skilled worker. The AIP has become a vital component of the region’s immigration strategy, helping attract and retain talent to meet its economic and demographic needs.

Reasons for the Pause

New Brunswick’s decision to pause new endorsement applications is aimed at managing its immigration capacity. The province has reached its maximum allocation for 2024, making this temporary suspension necessary to ensure the province can properly support newcomers already in the system. Despite this pause, New Brunswick will still accept Employer Designation applications, which will enable employers to be ready for new hires when the program resumes in 2025.

This strategic decision also helps preserve the integrity of the program, allowing the province to effectively manage resources and ensure that the needs of both newcomers and local businesses are met.

Impact on Applicants and Employers

The temporary halt in new endorsement applications will have noticeable effects on both potential immigrants and employers in New Brunswick:

• For Prospective Immigrants: Individuals hoping to apply for permanent residency under the AIP will need to rethink their plans. Those with expiring work permits may face challenges in submitting their applications in time.
• For Employers: Businesses relying on the AIP to address labor shortages will need to explore alternative options for hiring. However, by continuing to submit Employer Designation applications, companies can prepare for future hires once the endorsement process resumes.

Continued Engagement Despite the Pause

Even with the suspension of new endorsement applications, New Brunswick remains committed to attracting skilled talent. By accepting Employer Designation applications, the province is ensuring that employers are well-positioned to recruit international workers when the AIP reopens. This proactive engagement allows businesses to maintain connections with qualified candidates, ensuring smoother recruitment efforts in 2025.

Immigration Trends in Atlantic Canada

The AIP forms part of a broader effort across Atlantic Canada to enhance immigrant retention and address demographic challenges. Studies show that retention rates among newcomers in the region are improving, particularly through targeted programs like the AIP. Personalized settlement plans for newcomers play a vital role in helping them integrate into the community and build long-term ties in the region.

As Atlantic Canada continues to adapt its immigration policies to meet local needs, staying informed about program updates is crucial for both applicants and employers. The pause in New Brunswick’s endorsement applications reflects the region’s careful management of its immigration intake, ensuring that both newcomers and local economies can thrive.

Looking Ahead

As we move into 2025, stakeholders are optimistic that the Atlantic Immigration Program will resume its endorsement application process. This will provide continued opportunities for skilled workers and international graduates to contribute to the growth and prosperity of New Brunswick and the wider Atlantic region.

While the pause may present challenges, alternative pathways such as applying for a Closed Work Permit based on existing job offers can help bridge the gap. Both applicants and employers are encouraged to explore available options during this temporary suspension.