How Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP) Works?

Learn all about Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP)! 

Welcome to this easy-to-follow guide on the Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP).

1. Who is This Guide Meant For?

This guide simplifies the Atlantic High Skilled Program without getting lost in complicated language and rules. It’ll take all the confusing stuff and make it super easy to understand. Plus, it's packed with insider secrets to help you shine brighter than the rest when you apply! Primarily, this guide is for anyone who wants to learn about immigration to Canada through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). This guide is here to make everything clearer and simpler for you. If you find the official rules and documents about the requirements to move to Canada confusing, this guide can be your helpful friend. It’s here to give you clear and easy help so you can understand how Canadian permanent residence works without any problem.

The Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP), a part of the Atlantic Immigration Program, is tailored for skilled workers seeking permanent residence in Canada's Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. This program is designed to help these provinces fill job vacancies with skilled foreign workers and international graduates from Canadian institutions.

Key requirements for the AHSP include:

• Job Offer: Candidates must have a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from an AIP-designated employer in an Atlantic province, lasting at least one year, and be in a skill type/level 0, A, or B occupation.

• Work Experience: At least one year (1,560 hours) of work experience in the past three years, in one occupation, paid and at skill type/level 0, A, or B.

• Education: A Canadian high school or post-secondary certificate, diploma or degree, or a foreign credential with an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) verifying its Canadian equivalency.

• Language Proficiency: Candidates must meet a minimum language threshold in English or French, as per Canadian Language Benchmarks or Niveaux de Compétence Linguistique Canadiens.

• Proof of Funds: Applicants must demonstrate they have sufficient funds to support themselves and their families after immigration. The required amount varies based on family size.

This program is a pathway to permanent residence for those who meet its requirements, aiding in the economic growth and addressing labor shortages in the Atlantic regions of Canada. Candidates are encouraged to refer to official Canadian immigration resources for the most current and accurate information.

2. A Quick Overview of this Program.

Introduction to Atlantic High Skilled Program

The Atlantic High Skilled Program is a special pathway within the larger Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). It's designed for four regions: Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

What's The Purpose of This Program?

Simply put, the Atlantic High-Skilled aims to bring individuals with high skills from other countries to work and live in the Atlantic provinces like Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

Who Should Think About Applying? (Eligibility Criteria)

For those looking at the High-Skilled Program, it's a part of the wider Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). This specific pathway is crafted for people who have strong experience in jobs that require a lot of expertise. This program outlines what job types, past work, education level, and language abilities you should have to qualify.

Why Does This Program Exist?

The Atlantic regions, like Newfoundland, sometimes need people with certain skills. The High-Skilled Program exists to help bring skilled individuals from different countries to fill these roles, enriching the community.

How Do You Start Your Application?

• Step 1: Find Out If AHSP is Right for You (Choose AHSP within AIP)

• Step 2: Prepare Your Documents (Gather necessary paperwork)

• Step 3: Complete Your Application (Fill in the forms)

• Step 4: Submit Everything Along With the Fee (Send your application and payment) Step 5: Wait to Hear Back (Wait for a decision)

If You're Accepted, What's Next?

Once the Atlantic High-Skilled approves you, you can move to one of the Atlantic provinces. You're then set to start your job and become an active member of the community.

In Conclusion:

The program is a key segment of the overall Canada Atlantic Immigration Program. It provides a chance for skilled workers to settle in beautiful Atlantic areas like Newfoundland, as well as other provinces like New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

3. What is this Program and Why Does it Exist?

Breaking Down the Program and Its Purpose:

What's the Program About?

The Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP) is a special plan from Canada to bring in knowledgeable people from other countries. This program targets those who are particularly skilled in specific jobs that some Atlantic provinces are struggling to fill from their local pool.

Why was the Atlantic High-Skilled Program Created?

Objective (Simple Goal): Some areas in the Atlantic provinces, namely Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island, have job positions open but not enough local folks to take them. The program is Canada's solution to this challenge, aiming to get skilled individuals from other countries to help out.

Process (Steps and Method): What Canada is on the lookout for are individuals who have had a job (work experience) in either management, professional, or technical areas. Whether these people are currently in another country or even in Canada for a short period, this program is set up to welcome them and offer opportunities in the Atlantic provinces.

4. How Does this Program Work? 

Understanding the Atlantic High Skilled Program Process:

Step 1 - The Selection Process: Picture employers from places like Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. If you have the right skills, particularly in roles like management, professional, or technical jobs, these companies might select you and guide you on the next steps.

Step 2 - Assistance Along the Way: Once you're selected, you're not on your own. These companies, alongside some guiding (support) groups, will give you specific (particular) forms to fill out. They'll also hand over essential documents like the Letter of Endorsement (approval letter) and a job offer form related to program.

Step 3 - Applying Online: Next, you'd go to the 'Permanent residence online application portal' (official website for residency applications). Think of this as setting up an account on a formal website. To make sure you enter the right details, there's an instruction guide named IMM 0154 (official guidance document) to assist you.

Are You a Suitable Candidate? (Eligibility Criteria): To be part of the High-Skilled Program (AHSP), there are specific standards (rules) you need to match. They'll look at your past jobs, especially in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 roles (job categories). They'll assess your CLB/NCLC 5 (language test scores) in English or French, your ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) for education, and other key details like the settlement fund (money you should have if coming from outside Canada).

Something to Remember: Your journey starts when a designated employer (an approved company) chooses you. If you fit the requirements, you have a good chance of living and working in beautiful places like Newfoundland and Labrador.

Need More Details?: There are links on this page that go into more detail about the Atlantic High Skilled Program . Click them if you want a closer look. And if something isn't clear, ask the company helping you or look at the official guides. It's always good to be sure!

5. Who is an Atlantic Program Immigrant?

Who is an Atlantic High-Skilled Participant?

This participant is an individual keen on establishing themselves in Atlantic Canada, encompassing Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. The High-Skilled is tailored for distinct candidates based on their professional background and aspirations. Let's break this down for clarity:

Atlantic High-Skilled Program

Who They Are: Professionals with experience in management roles, technical jobs, or specialized positions.

What They Need: A minimum of one year's experience in specified roles (TEER 0, 1, 2, OR 3), a job offer from a recognized (approved) employer in Atlantic Canada, and proficiency in either English or French.

The Atlantic High Skilled Program is systematically designed (follows a detailed structure). It sets forth certain benchmarks (defined guidelines) that match an individual's skills with the employment needs of Atlantic Canada. The primary objective? Strengthen Atlantic Canada's job market and nurture thriving communities.

6. What is Eligibility Criteria for this Program?

This program is especially for those who have experience in roles like management, professional jobs, or specific technical/skilled tasks. Here's a simple guide to understand the main requirements for the Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP):

Eligibility Criteria for the Atlantic High-Skilled Program:

Here's a structured guide to help you understand the primary criteria essential for the program.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS:

1. Language Proficiency (How well you speak and understand)

You must have a minimum score in a language test, known as CLB/NCLC level 5, in English or French.

2. Work Experience (Your job history)

You should have worked for at least 1 year (1560 hours) in certain job types (known as TEER 0, 1, 2, OR 3) in the past 5 years. This experience can be from a job outside Canada or while you were in Canada for a short time.

3. Job Offer (An official proposal for a job)

You should have an offer for a full-time, non-seasonal job from a designated (approved) employer in Atlantic Canada. The job types should be in TEER 0, 1, 2, OR 3, and the job should last for at least 1 year once you get permanent residency.

4. Education (Your schooling details)

If your job offer is in TEER 0 OR 1, you should have finished at least 1 year of college or university. If you studied outside of Canada, you'd need an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment, which is a certificate showing your foreign education is valid in Canada).

5. Settlement Funds (Money for settling in)

If you're coming from another country, you should have a certain amount of money, which is 12.5 percent of a standard called the low-income cut-off total. If you're already working legally in Canada, you don’t need to show this money.

6. Additional Paperwork

You'll also need a Letter of Endorsement (a kind of approval letter) from one of the Atlantic provinces.

The main goal of the Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP) is to help the Atlantic areas of Canada grow by getting skilled workers they need. If you fit these requirements, you could be a great fit for the program.

7. How do I Apply? Step-by-step Process!.

Here's a step-by-step application process for the program :

Step 1: Eligibility Check

Before starting the application process for the Atlantic High Skilled Program, it's crucial to ensure that you meet the program's requirements. These standards, or "eligibility requirements" (standards you must meet) in technical terms, include things like Language Proficiency (how well you know English or French), Work Experience, Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) (your education level), and a few other points. You can find a full list of these requirements in the section titled 'Eligibility Criteria for this Program' above.

Step 2: Connect with Your Employer

In this program, your employer plays a key role. They identify skilled candidates for positions they couldn't fill locally. If you meet the eligibility criteria, your first task is to secure a job offer from an approved employer in Atlantic Canada.

Step 3: Start the Application Process

Once you have a job offer, your employer will guide you on the application process. They, along with their settlement service organization, will provide necessary documents, including a confirmation of endorsement letter from the province and a completed employment offer form to submit with your application.

Step 4: Apply Online

After gathering the required documents, you'll create an online account on the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal. Use the provided Instruction Guide (IMM 0154) to fill out the application forms accurately.

Step 5: Submit and Wait

With all your information in order, submit your application online. Immigration authorities will then review your eligibility, perform background checks, and assess your job offer and supporting documents.

Step 6: Get Permanent Residency

If your application is approved, you'll be granted permanent residency in Canada. This allows you to live and work in Atlantic Canada, contributing to the region's workforce and communities.

Always stay updated with the latest information, as immigration policies may change. Check the official government website for the most current Atlantic High Skilled Program guidelines and instructions.

8. What are the Required Documents?

Here's a simplified guide to the required documents for the AHSP application:

1. Job-Related Papers:

• Offer of Employment Form (Job Agreement): This official document, provided by your prospective employer in any of the Atlantic provinces, confirms their intention to hire you.

• Provincial Confirmation of Endorsement Letter (Official Approval): After a company in any of the Atlantic provinces selects you as a candidate, they collaborate with a settlement service organization to obtain this letter. It signifies the province's support for your employment within its borders.

2. Language Skills:

• Language Test Results (Proof of Language Proficiency): Depending on the specific category of the Atlantic High-Skilled Program you're applying to, you'll need to demonstrate your proficiency (ability) in either English or French using these test scores.

3. Work Background (Job History Papers):

• Employment Records (Proof of Past Jobs): The program may require you to provide documentation, such as payslips or official job letters, to verify your previous work experience in roles specified by the Atlantic High Skilled Program.

4. Education Credentials (School Papers):

• Educational Certificates/Diplomas (Your Academic Qualifications): Depending on the job role and the category you're targeting, you'll need to furnish specific educational documents.

• Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) (Validation of Your Degree): If your education was obtained outside of Canada, this assessment ensures that it meets Canadian standards.

5. Settlement Funds:

• Proof of Funds (Evidence of Savings): If you're coming from another country, this document, often a bank statement, demonstrates that you possess sufficient funds (money) to support your settlement in any of the Atlantic provinces.

6. Residency Requirements:

• Residence Proof (Proof of Where You've Lived): For certain parts of the program, you may need to provide evidence of your residency (where you've lived) in any of the Atlantic provinces, which could include bills or rent receipts.

• Letter of Endorsement (Official Support Document): Every applicant requires this letter, indicating that the Atlantic province officially supports your application.

7. Personal Identification:

• Passport & Travel Documents: Essential for verifying your identity and nationality. Ensure your passport remains valid for at least another year.

• Birth Certificate (Proof of Birth): This document supports your identity, ensuring transparency in the application process.

8. Family-Related Documents:

• Marriage Certificate: If you have a spouse, this document is necessary.

• Children's Birth Certificates: If you're bringing children, their birth certificates demonstrate their age and relationship to you.

9. Medical Examination:

• Medical Examination Results (Health Checkup Results): This ensures that you and your family members are in good health hence fit for Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP).

10. Police Clearance:

• Police Certificates (Background Check Papers): These documents ensure that you have maintained a clean record (no criminal history) wherever you've lived since turning 18.

11. Job Market Impact Assessment:

• Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (Job Market Check): In some cases, a job may require this document to demonstrate that a Canadian citizen was not available for the position.

12. Biometrics:

• Biometric Appointment Confirmation (Fingerprint & Photo Session Date): If requested, this informs you of the date for your biometric data collection.

13. Online Account Details:

• Electronic Application for Permanent Residence (e-APR) Details (Online Application Access): Remember, you'll be submitting your application online, so keep these login details secure.

Always ensure to review the specific requirements for the Atlantic High-Skilled category you're interested in, as the documentation may vary based on the pathway you choose within any of the Atlantic provinces.

9. How is the Application processed?

Understanding the Atlantic High Skilled Program Application Process

The process of applying may seem complex, but let's break it down step by step in plain terms:

Remember, the rules can change sometimes. So, it's always a good idea to double-check the latest details on the official Canadian government website about Atlantic High Skilled Program.

10. What are the time and cost involved?

Here's a clear and straightforward explanation of the time and costs associated with the Atlantic High Skilled Program:

Time:

• Application Processing (Review Time): When you apply, it usually takes around 6 months for the officials to review your application. However, keep in mind that this timeline can vary depending on how well-prepared your application is and how many other applications they have to process at the same time.

• Permanent Residency Processing: Once your application is approved, there's another step where your permanent residency is processed. This typically takes another 6 months or so.

Costs:

• Application Fee (Cost to Apply): To start your AHSP application, you need to pay a fee. If you're the main applicant, this fee is CAD 1,050. If you're including your spouse or partner, it's an extra CAD 550. If you have children, there's a fee of CAD 150 for each child.

• Biometrics Fee (Fingerprint and Photo Fee): You may also need to pay a biometrics fee, which is CAD 85 for each person, up to a maximum of CAD 170 for a family.

• Right of Permanent Residence Fee (Permanent Residency Fee): For adults applying for permanent residency, there's a fee of CAD 500 per person. Importantly, this fee is not required for dependent children.

• Additional Expenses: Apart from these fees, be aware that there could be other costs involved. These might include fees for medical check-ups, background checks, language tests, or fees if you choose to get help from an immigration consultant or lawyer.

It's important to remember that the exact time and costs can vary depending on your specific situation, and they may change over time. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information, you must refer to the official Canadian government website.

11. What to do (or avoid) in my application?

When you're applying for the Atlantic High Skilled Program, it's essential to know what to do and what to avoid to make your application successful.

By following these guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you can improve your chances of a successful AHSP application. Remember that immigration processes can be complex, so seeking advice from immigration experts or legal professionals is a good idea if you have any questions or concerns.

12. Five Key Tips for Your Application

Let's break down five important insights about the Atlantic High Skilled Program application process, keeping it clear and straightforward:

These insights give you a plain-language view of the AHSP process. Remember, it's a team effort involving your future employer, settlement service organizations, and the province, and good language skills, patience, and careful application preparation are key.

13. Can I see Application Case Study?

Case Study: John's Journey to Canada

Background:

John, a skilled IT manager, had always dreamed of living and working in Canada. He learned about the Atlantic High Skilled Program, an immigration opportunity for high-skilled professionals like him in Atlantic Canada. Inspired, John decided to pursue his Canadian dream.

Key Points in John's Application:

1. Eligibility Evaluation (Checking If He Qualifies): John carefully reviewed the criteria to ensure he met the requirements. With over five years of experience in IT management (TEER 0), a job offer from a designated New Brunswick employer, and his eligibility confirmed, he proceeded with confidence.

2. Language Proficiency (Assessing Language Skills): Recognizing the importance of language skills, John took the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) test. He scored CLB 7 (equivalent to high English proficiency), surpassing the minimum CLB 5 requirement, which boosted the strength of his application.

3. Financial Capacity Assessment (Checking Settlement Funds): As John was applying from outside Canada, he needed to demonstrate his financial capacity. This entailed showing funds equal to 12.5 percent of the low-income cut-off total (a specific amount of money). John meticulously prepared the necessary financial documentation to meet this requirement.

4. Provincial Support (Getting Official Backing): John's prospective employer in New Brunswick was a valuable ally throughout the process. They collaborated with a settlement service organization (a support group) and the provincial government to secure the crucial endorsement letter (an official document), a vital component of his application.

5. Application Submission (Submitting the Formal Request): With thoroughness, John completed his application, ensuring all documents were accurate and current. He submitted the application through the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal (an online platform), paying the prescribed fees.

6. Waiting Period (Exercising Patience): Following submission, John patiently awaited a response, understanding that processing times could vary, taking several months.

7. Medical Examination and Background Checks (Health and Background Verification): During the application process, John and his family underwent medical examinations (health tests) to meet health requirements. Additionally, background checks were conducted to verify their criminal history.

8. Approval and Settlement (Receiving the Green Light and Settling Down): After several months of anticipation, John received the long-awaited approval for his application. He was excited to relocate to New Brunswick with his family. The settlement service organization in the province played a vital role in assisting him with essential services, including housing, schooling for his children, and integration into the local community.

Conclusion:

John's successful application paved the way for him to realize his Canadian dream. Through meticulous preparation, adherence to eligibility criteria, and collaboration with his future employer and settlement service organization, he navigated the application process seamlessly. John's journey underscores that AHSP offers a viable path for skilled professionals who are willing to invest time and effort in their pursuit of Canadian aspirations.

14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

These FAQs provide further clarity on various aspects of the Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP). Always refer to official guidelines and consult with immigration experts for the most accurate and up-to-date information tailored to your specific situation.

15. Useful Links & Resources:

For the most accurate and up-to-date information about the Atlantic High Skilled Program (AHSP), it's essential to consult official Canadian government websites. Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).

Kamal Akhtar (Immigration Lawyer)
Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public
BCOM; MBA; LL.B; LL.M (York University, Toronto)

As the founder of this website and your guide through the complexities of Canadian immigration law, my academic credentials include a Bachelor of Law  (LL.B) and Master of Law (LL.M) from York University, Toronto, complemented by an Honours Diploma in Immigration Consulting. I am a lawyer licensed by the Law Society of Ontario (LSO). My affiliation with legal associations such as the Canadian Immigration Lawyers Association (CILA), the Canadian Association of Professional Immigration Consultants (CAPIC), the Canadian Bar Association (CBA), and the Ontario Bar Association (OBA) underscores my commitment to  immigration policies and practices. I share insights shaped by over 25 years of legal experience. Please note that information on this website does not constitute legal or professional advice.

Contact Us!

Written by Kamal Akhtar a Barrister & Solicitor, Law Society of Ontario. | B.COM; MBA; LL.B; LL.M | Honors Diploma in Immigration Consulting | Published on December 18, 2024 | Last Updated January 14, 2024

Akhtar & Associates Immigration Law Office
Email: info@kamallaw.ca | Phone: +1 (416) 317-7515

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