How Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP) Works?

Learn all about Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP)! 

Welcome to this easy-to-follow guide on the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP). This guide simplifies the Atlantic International Graduate 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!

1. Who is This Guide Meant For?

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 International Graduate Program (AIGP) is part of the broader Atlantic Immigration Program aimed at attracting international graduates to Canada's Atlantic provinces, including New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

Key Points:

• Eligibility: To be eligible for the AIGP, international graduates must have completed a full-time program of at least two years in duration at a publicly-funded institution in one of the Atlantic provinces.

• Job Offer: Applicants need a full-time, non-seasonal job offer from an employer in one of the Atlantic provinces to apply for the program.

• Work Experience: There may be specific work experience requirements depending on the province and job offer.

• Language Proficiency: Candidates may need to meet language proficiency requirements in English or French, depending on the job offer.

• Path to Permanent Residence: The AIGP is a pathway for international graduates to obtain permanent residence in Canada's Atlantic provinces.

For the most current and detailed information about the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP), it is recommended to refer to official Canadian immigration resources and government websites. Additionally, you can consult the official website of the specific Atlantic province you are interested in for program details and requirements.

2. A Quick Overview of this Program.

Understanding the Atlantic International Graduate Program

This is a specific path within the broader Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) designed for individuals who have recently graduated from educational institutions in the Atlantic provinces. These provinces include Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

What's the Purpose of This Program? (Why It Exists)

Put simply, this program aims to attract and welcome graduates from other countries to come and live and work in the Atlantic provinces. These provinces, like Newfoundland and Labrador, sometimes need individuals with specific skills and fresh ideas to contribute to their growth and development. The AIGP is a way to make this happen by providing opportunities for international graduates.

Who Should Think About Applying? (Eligibility Criteria)

If you've recently graduated from a school or university in the Atlantic provinces and want to build your career there, the Atlantic International Graduate Program might be for you. To be eligible, you need to meet certain requirements, such as having completed your studies in the Atlantic provinces, having a valid job offer, and meeting language proficiency standards.

How Does the Application Process Work? (Getting Started)

Here's a step-by-step guide to getting started with your application:

• Step 1: Determine if AIGP is Suitable for You (Select AIGP within AIP) First, you need to confirm that the Atlantic International Graduate Program is the right fit for your situation. This is an important first step.

• Step 2: Organize Your Documentation (Collect the necessary paperwork) Gather all the required documents. These might include your diploma or degree certificate, language test results, and a valid job offer from an employer in the Atlantic provinces.

• Step 3: Complete Your Application (Fill out the required forms) Fill out the necessary application forms. These forms will ask for details about your education, work experience, and personal information.

• Step 4: Submit Your Application Along With the Applicable Fee (Send your application and payment) Once your application is complete, you'll need to submit it along with the required application fee. The fee helps cover the cost of processing your application.

• Step 5: Await a Response (Wait for a decision) After you've submitted your application, you'll need to wait for a response from the authorities. They will review your application to ensure you meet all the requirements.

What Happens If Your Application Is Approved? (Next Steps)

If your application is approved, you'll have the green light to start planning your move to one of the Atlantic provinces. This marks the beginning of your journey towards securing employment and becoming an active member of the local community.

In Conclusion:

The Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP) is a valuable opportunity for recent graduates who wish to establish themselves in the scenic Atlantic regions, which include Newfoundland, as well as other provinces like New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. This program helps international graduates contribute to the growth and prosperity of these provinces while building their own careers.

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

Breaking Down the Program and Its Purpose:

What's the Program About?

The Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP) is a specialized initiative within the larger Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). It's designed to attract recent graduates who have completed their studies at publicly funded institutions in Atlantic provinces. These provinces include Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

Why was this Program Created?

Objective (Simple Goal): Some regions within the Atlantic provinces face a situation where they have job openings, but there's a shortage of local candidates to fill them. This program serves as Canada's response to this challenge, with the aim of welcoming skilled individuals from other countries to contribute to these regions.

Process (Steps and Method): Canada is primarily seeking recent graduates of publicly funded institutions in an Atlantic province. These candidates can either be situated abroad or temporarily be in Canada. The Atlantic International Graduate Program is designed to make it easier for them to find suitable employment and settle in the Atlantic provinces.

4. How Does this Program Work? 

Understanding the Atlantic International Graduate Program Process:

Step 1 - The Selection Process: If you've successfully completed your studies at a publicly funded institution within these Atlantic provinces like Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. These employers might consider you for this program and guide you about the next steps.

Step 2 - Assistance Along the Way: After being selected for the Atlantic International Graduate Program, you're not left on your own. These firms, along with certain guiding (helping) organizations, will provide you with specific (particular) documents to complete. They'll also provide you important papers such as the Letter of Endorsement (confirmation letter) from an Atlantic province and related job offer document.

Step 3 - Applying Online: Next, you would proceed to the 'Permanent residence online application portal' (official site for residency applications). You'll need to create an account on an official digital platform. To ensure accurate input, an instruction manual named IMM 0154 (official guidance document) is available to help your application.

Are You a Suitable Candidate? (Eligibility Metrics): To qualify for the Atlantic International Graduate Program, there are clear benchmarks (standards) to meet. Your language skills will be examined, particularly the CLB/ NCLC 5 for TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3, and CLB/ NCLC 4 for TEER 4. The fact that prior work experience is not required will be noted, along with details of your job offer, especially if it's in TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4. Your educational background will be assessed. 

Settlement Fund (required finances): For those coming from outside Canada, a specific amount, equal to 12.5% of the low-income cut-off totals, should be in hand. However, individuals currently working legally in Canada don't need this fund.

Others: The residency requirement necessitates staying in any of the Atlantic provinces for a minimum of 16 months during the two years prior to finishing your education.

Something to Remember: Your journey with this program starts when an approved employer (a certified company) shows their interest in hiring you. Meeting the criteria creates the way for a promising future in Atlantic regions.

Need More Details?: There are links on this page that go into more detail about the Atlantic International Graduate 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 Exactly is an Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP) Participant ?

This individual is someone who has completed their studies in Atlantic Canada, specifically within the regions of Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. This program has been specifically constructed (designed) to cater to these freshly minted graduates, highlighting their educational journey and potential future contributions. 

Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP)

(Who They Are): These are individuals who've achieved academic success, graduating from any publicly funded institutions in the Atlantic provinces and are eager to integrate into the broader Canadian professional landscape.

(What They Need): An official job offer in roles such as TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 from an authorized (designated) employer in Atlantic Canada, a command over English or French languages, and meeting certain laid-out criteria (benchmarks).

The Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP) is a systematically designed strategy (blueprint). It incorporates a set of benchmarks (standards) that ensure a graduate's educational background is in line with what Atlantic Canada's workforce requires. The ultimate goal? To enrich the economic fabric of Atlantic Canada by welcoming talented graduates into the workforce and fostering growth.

6. What is Eligibility Criteria for this Program?

This program is especially for those who has completed their studies in Atlantic Canada, specifically within the regions of Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Here's a simple guide to understand the main requirements for the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP):

Eligibility Criteria for the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP):

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):

For this program, you need to reach a specific score in a language assessment. This score is termed CLB/NCLC (Canadian Language Benchmark/Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens). In simple terms, it's a score that shows your proficiency in English or French. You need a CLB/NCLC level 5 for job categories TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3, and CLB/NCLC level 4 for TEER

2. Work Experience (Your past jobs):

One of the perks of this program is that you don't need any prior work history. So, if you've just graduated and don't have any job experience, that's perfectly fine.

3. Job Offer (An employer's invitation to work)

To qualify, you need a job offer. This offer should come from a designated (officially recognized) employer in Atlantic Canada. The jobs should fall under TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4 categories. In basic terms, these are codes that classify job types. Furthermore, the job should continue for at least a year after you become a permanent resident.

4. Education (Where you studied and what qualifications you have):

Your educational background plays a role in the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP) eligibility. Depending on the type of job offer you get, classified by the NOC (National Occupational Classification) TEER category (basically, job type codes), you should have either a Canadian post-secondary education of at least a year or its equivalent from another country.

5. Settlement Funds (Money you should have to settle in Canada):

If you're coming to Canada from another country, you need to prove you have some savings. This is called the low-income cut-off total, which is a standard to ensure you can support yourself initially. For this, 12.5 percent of this standard is required. But if you're already in Canada and have a job, you don’t need to show this money.

6. Additional Paperwork

Lastly, you'll need a Letter of Endorsement. Think of it as a letter that confirms you're accepted by one of the Atlantic provinces. Additionally, it's essential to have lived in one of these provinces for at least 16 months during the past two years.

This program offers a clear pathway for international graduates wanting to make Atlantic Canada their home. Just ensure you meet these criteria, and you could be well on your way to becoming a permanent resident.

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

Here's a step-by-step application process for the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP):

Step 1: Eligibility Check (Making sure you qualify):

Before starting application process, the first thing you need to do is check if you fit the eligibility criteria. This is all about making sure you meet certain standards set by the program. These standards, or "eligibility requirements" (standards you must meet) in technical terms, include things like Language Proficiency (how well you know English or French), 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 (Talk to the company that wants to hire you):

In the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP), your journey starts when a company in Atlantic Canada selects you. After they choose you, they'll take care of the initial paperwork. Once all that is done and they think you're a good match, the company, along with another organization that helps with settling down (settlement service organization), will give you some critical documents. These are like the golden tickets you need for the next steps: a Letter of Endorsement (confirmation) from the province and an Offer of Employment Form (job offer document).

Step 3: Start the Application Process (Begin your formal application):

With a job offer in hand and the right documents from your hiring company, you'll move on to the actual application. Here, your company plays a crucial role as they will guide you through this step-by-step process, making sure everything is in order.

Step 4: Apply Online (Fill out your application on the internet):

Now, with all your documents ready, you'll make an online account at a specific place called the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal (official website to apply). While filling out your application forms, you'll have a manual called the Instruction Guide (IMM 0154) (helpful handbook) to help you. This guide ensures that you put in all the information correctly.

Step 5: Submit and Wait (Send in your application and be patient):

After entering all your details, you hit the 'submit' button. Then, it's a waiting game. Immigration authorities (officials checking your application) will go through everything you've submitted, perform background checks, and look at your job offer and other documents to see if everything matches up.

Step 6: Get Permanent Residency (Become a long-term resident):

If the stars align and your application ticks all the boxes, congrats! You'll get the green light for permanent residency (official permission to live long-term) in Canada. This means you can live, work, and be a part of the community in Atlantic Canada.

Lastly, always remember that rules can change. So, it's a good idea to keep an eye on the official government website (main source of program info) to make sure you're up-to-date with the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP).

8. What are the Required Documents?

Here's a simplified guide to the required documents for the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP):

1. Employment Documents (Job Papers):

To get started, you'll need two crucial documents. First, you'll receive an Offer of Employment Form, which is essentially an official paper from the company in an Atlantic province confirming that they want to hire you. Second, there's the Provincial Confirmation of Endorsement Letter, which proves that the province supports your job opportunity arranged by your potential employer.

2. Language Skills (Language Proficiency):

The next step involves showcasing your language skills. You need to prove how well you can speak, understand, read, and write in either English or French, depending on which language category you're applying under. You can do this by providing your language test results.

3. Work History Records (Job Experience Papers):

While previous work experience is not mandatory for all pathways, if it's applicable to your chosen route, you may need to show employment records like payslips or official job letters as proof of your prior work experience in specific roles as defined by the program.

4. Educational Credentials (School Records):

Your academic qualifications matter too. The level of education you've achieved will depend on the job role and the AIGP category you're targeting. You might need to provide your educational certificates or diplomas. If your education happened outside Canada, you'll also require an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) to validate your degree.

5. Settlement Funds (Savings Proof):

For those coming from another country, it's essential to demonstrate that you have enough savings to support yourself when you settle in one of the Atlantic provinces. This is usually shown through documents like bank statements.

6. Residency Validation (Proof of Where You've Lived):

In some instances, you may be asked to provide evidence of where you've lived in any of the Atlantic provinces. This could include things like bills or receipts as proof of your residence.

7. Personal Identification (ID Documents):

Your personal identification, including your passport and travel documents, are necessary to verify who you are and your nationality. Make sure your passport remains valid for at least another year. Your birth certificate is also important as it confirms your identity.

8. Family-Related Papers (Family Documents):

If you have a spouse or children joining you, documents like your marriage certificate and your children's birth certificates are required to verify your family relationships.

9. Health Check (Medical Examination):

A health check, or medical examination, ensures that you and your family members are in good health. It's a mandatory step to ensure the safety and well-being of all applicants.

10. Background Check (Police Clearance):

You'll need to provide police certificates or background check papers. These documents confirm that you have a clean record without any criminal history in places where you've lived since turning 18.

11. Job Market Assessment (LMIA - Job Market Check):

In certain situations, a job you're applying for might necessitate a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This assessment demonstrates that there were no available Canadian citizens for the specific job position.

12. Biometric Appointment Confirmation (Fingerprint & Photo Session Date):

If requested, you'll receive an appointment confirmation for biometric data collection. This typically involves fingerprints and a photo session, and it's an important part of the application process.

13. Online Application Access (e-APR Details):

Keep your electronic application for permanent residence (e-APR) details secure. These are the login credentials you'll use to submit your application online.

Always remember to check the specific requirements for the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP) category you're interested in, as the documents needed may differ based on the pathway you choose within any of the Atlantic provinces. Staying organized and following these steps will help you navigate the application process smoothly.

9. How is the Application processed?

Understanding How the Atlantic International Graduate Program Application Works

Going through the application process may seem complicated, but let's simplify it step by step, ensuring you grasp each aspect clearly:

Remember that immigration rules can evolve, so it's wise to cross-reference the latest information on the official Canadian government website regarding the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP). Staying informed is essential to navigate the application process effectively.

10. What are the time and cost involved?

Timeframes (Duration):

Application Processing (Review Time): When you initiate your application, it typically undergoes evaluation for approximately 6 months. However, it's essential to note that the timeline can fluctuate based on the completeness of your application and the volume of applications in the queue for processing concurrently.

Permanent Residency Processing: Following the approval of your application, there's an additional step dedicated to processing your permanent residency status. This phase usually consumes an additional 6 months or thereabouts.

Costs (Financial Considerations):

Application Fee (Cost to Apply): To commence your application, you are required to make a payment. If you are the principal applicant, this fee amounts to CAD 1,050. In case you are including your spouse or partner, an extra CAD 550 is applicable. Families with children should also account for a fee of CAD 150 per child.

Biometrics Fee (Fingerprint and Photo Fee): There might be an associated biometrics fee, which stands at CAD 85 per person, up to a maximum of CAD 170 for an entire family.

Right of Permanent Residence Fee (Permanent Residency Fee): For adults who are in the process of acquiring permanent residency, there's an additional fee of CAD 500 per person. Importantly, this fee does not apply to dependent children.

Incidental Expenses: Beyond these specified fees, it's essential to acknowledge the potential existence of other expenses. These could encompass charges for medical assessments, background verifications, language proficiency tests, or fees if you opt for assistance from an immigration consultant or attorney.

It is important to keep in mind that the precise timeframes and costs may change  depending on your particular circumstances and may be subject to changes over time. For the most precise and up-to-date information, it is imperative to consult the official Canadian government website.

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

When you're applying for the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP), it's essential to know what to do and what to avoid to make your application successful.

By adhering to these "do's" and avoiding the "don'ts," you can enhance your chances of a successful application for the Atlantic International Graduate Program. Always remember that precise requirements and processes may evolve, so it's crucial to consult official government sources for the most up-to-date information.

12. Five Key Tips for Your Application

Here are five additional insights from the perspective of how applications are reviewed by officials for a successful AIGP application, building upon the previous information:

These insights should help you approach your AIGP application with a more comprehensive understanding of what officials are looking for. Remember that every detail in your application can impact the overall outcome, so meticulous attention to these aspects is essential.

13. Can I see Application Case Study?

Case Study: Emma's Experience with the Atlantic Immigration Program Newfoundland.

Discover how Emma, a software engineer from India, successfully went through the Atlantic Immigration Program Newfoundland to live and work in Newfoundland.

Case Study: Pursuing a Dream Career in Atlantic Canada with the International Graduate Program

Meet Sarah, a recent graduate from a publicly funded institution in Nova Scotia, one of the Atlantic provinces. She dreams of launching her career in Canada, specifically in one of the beautiful Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island. Sarah's journey to achieving this dream begins with the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP).

Step 1: Confirming Eligibility

Before delving into the application process, Sarah ensures she meets the criteria:

• Education: Sarah holds a bachelor's degree in computer science from a publicly funded institution in Nova Scotia, one of the Atlantic provinces. This aligns with the program's requirement of being a recent graduate from an Atlantic province's institution, making her eligible.

• Language Proficiency: She has obtained a commendable score in an English proficiency test, achieving CLB/NCLC 5, making her eligible.

• Residence: Sarah ensures she meets the residence requirement by having lived in any of the Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island) for a minimum of 16 months in the two years prior to completing her education.

• No Work Experience Required: Sarah appreciates that AIGP doesn't necessitate work experience. This is fantastic news for her as a recent graduate.

Step 2: Research and Job Offer

Sarah knows that securing a job offer is crucial. She actively searches for job opportunities in her field in Atlantic Canada. After a few months of job hunting, she connects with a tech company in Nova Scotia, which offers her a position as a software developer. This job is full-time, non-seasonal, and meets the criteria.

Step 3: Gathering Documents

With the job offer in hand, Sarah diligently collects the necessary documents:

• Educational Credentials: She requests her university to provide her with copies of her transcripts and diploma, which she'll need to demonstrate her qualifications.

• Language Test Results: Sarah retains her English proficiency test results to prove her language skills.

• Proof of Funds: As she's coming from abroad, Sarah ensures she has the required settlement funds ready, equivalent to 12.5 percent of the low-income cut-off totals.

Step 4: Online Application

Sarah follows the official Canadian government's guidance and initiates her application online through the Permanent Residence Online Application Portal. She takes her time to fill out the application forms accurately, referencing the Instruction Guide (IMM 0154).

Step 5: Biometrics and Additional Checks

Once her application is in, Sarah is requested to attend a biometrics appointment. She provides her fingerprints and facial photo as part of this process. Background checks and medical examinations are also part of the thorough review.

Step 6: Waiting for a Decision

After submitting her application, Sarah anxiously waits. She understands that officials will review her application meticulously, checking her documents, qualifications, job offer, and her intent to live in Atlantic Canada.

Step 7: Receiving Permanent Residency

Finally, Sarah receives the news she's been waiting for. Her application is approved, granting her permanent residency in Canada. She is now ready to embark on her exciting journey to Atlantic Canada, where she'll contribute to the region's workforce and communities.

Sarah's case highlights how determination, research, and careful preparation can lead to a successful application through the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP). Her dream of building a career in Atlantic Canada has become a reality, thanks to her commitment and adherence to the program's requirements.

14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

These FAQs provide further clarity on various aspects of the Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP). 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 International Graduate Program (AIGP), 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, 2023 | Last Updated January 14, 2024

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

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