Atlantic Pilot Program (APP) refers to a series of immigration pathways and initiatives aimed at attracting skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs to Canada’s Atlantic provinces, namely New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador. The APP is part of the Atlantic Growth Strategy, a collaborative effort between the federal government and the Atlantic provinces to stimulate economic growth and address labor market needs in the region. Here’s an overview of the Atlantic Pilot Program:

1. Atlantic Immigration Pilot Categories:

• Atlantic International Graduate Program (AIGP): This category targets international graduates from eligible post-secondary institutions in the Atlantic provinces who have a valid job offer from an employer in the region.

• Atlantic High-Skilled Program (AHSP): This category is designed for skilled workers with a valid job offer in a high-skilled occupation from an employer in one of the Atlantic provinces.

• Atlantic Intermediate-Skilled Program (AISP): This category is for intermediate-skilled workers with a valid job offer from an employer in the Atlantic region.

• Atlantic Business Impact Program (ABIP): This category is geared toward entrepreneurs and business owners interested in establishing or acquiring a business in the Atlantic provinces.

2. Job Offer Requirement: To be eligible for the Atlantic Pilot Program, candidates must have a valid job offer from an eligible employer in one of the Atlantic provinces. The job offer must meet specific requirements related to skill level, wages, and duration.

3. Settlement Plan: Applicants must work with a designated settlement service provider organization in the Atlantic province where they intend to settle. They are required to develop a settlement plan that outlines their goals for settling in Canada and participating in the local community.

4. Language Proficiency: Depending on the specific category, candidates may need to demonstrate their proficiency in English or French through standardized language tests.

5. Endorsement: Once a candidate meets the program requirements and has a valid job offer, they must be endorsed by a designated provincial authority in one of the Atlantic provinces. This endorsement is a key step in the application process.

6. Permanent Residency: After receiving an endorsement, candidates can apply for permanent residency through the federal Express Entry system or a paper-based process, depending on the specific APP category.

7. Impact on the Region: The Atlantic Pilot Program aims to address labor market shortages in the Atlantic provinces by attracting and retaining skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs. It contributes to the economic and demographic growth of the region.