Temporary Pause on Atlantic Immigration Program for Food Service Supervisors: Implications and Alternatives

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) has temporarily paused applications for food service supervisors under National Occupational Classification (NOC) 62020. This change affects both prospective immigrants and employers in Nova Scotia’s food and hospitality industries, with significant consequences for filling in-demand roles and supporting sector growth. Below is an in-depth look at the suspension, alternative pathways for applicants, and ongoing opportunities for employers.

Current Status for NOC 62020 Candidates

The Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration in Nova Scotia has suspended AIP and Nova Scotia Experience: Express Entry (NSEEE) applications for those with experience classified under NOC 62020. The suspension entails:

• Ineligibility for NSEEE: Individuals with work experience in NOC 62020 cannot apply through the NSEEE stream at this time.
• Job Offer Restrictions: Employers cannot use job offers for NOC 62020 roles to support AIP applications during this pause.

Alternative Pathways for Food Service Supervisors

Although the AIP is currently closed for NOC 62020, prospective immigrants have other options, such as the Skilled Worker Stream of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). This stream supports employers in recruiting foreign workers when qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents are not available.

Eligibility for the Skilled Worker Stream

To qualify under this stream, applicants must meet specific requirements:

• Job Offer: Applicants need a full-time, permanent job offer from a Nova Scotia employer. Full-time is defined as at least 30 hours per week.
• Employer Requirements: Employers must be registered with the Nova Scotia Registry of Joint Stock Companies or under the Societies Act and must have been operating in the province for a minimum of two years.
• Age: Candidates must be between 21 and 55 years of age.
• Education: A high school diploma (minimum of 12 years of education) is required.
• Work Experience: Applicants must have at least 12 months of relevant experience in the past five years.
• Language Proficiency: Candidates typically need a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 in English or French.
• Intent to Settle: Applicants must show they intend to settle in Nova Scotia and demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support themselves upon arrival.

Application Process for Skilled Worker Stream

The application process includes gathering essential documents, such as proof of a job offer and legal status in the current country of residence. Applications can be submitted online or by mail; however, incomplete applications may result in delays or disqualification. The Nova Scotia Office of Immigration (NSOI) will assess applications, which may involve interviews or additional verification with employers. Successful applicants will receive a nomination letter, which they can use to apply for permanent residency through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Opportunities for Employers

Despite the suspension for NOC 62020, Nova Scotia employers in food and hospitality can still recruit for this role through the Skilled Worker Stream. Moreover, businesses may also hire workers in related positions:

• Food and Beverage Servers (NOC 65200)
• Food Counter Attendants, Kitchen Helpers, and Related Support Occupations (NOC 65201) through the Occupations in Demand (OiD) stream

This flexibility enables employers to continue filling critical positions and addressing workforce shortages within the evolving immigration framework.

While the temporary pause on AIP for NOC 62020 restricts specific immigration pathways for food service supervisors, the Skilled Worker Stream offers an alternative. Employers are encouraged to leverage this option to meet labor needs and help candidates realize their goals of settling in Nova Scotia. This adjustment reflects a broader strategy to address changing labor demands within Atlantic Canada, ensuring continued support for the region’s economic and workforce development.