Atlantic Immigration Program for French-speaking Applicants

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) offers a permanent residence pathway for skilled workers and international graduates who want to live in one of Canada’s Atlantic provinces: Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador. French-speaking applicants are especially encouraged to apply, as the program supports the growth of bilingual and francophone communities throughout the region.

Overview

The AIP is an employer-driven program that allows designated employers in the Atlantic provinces to hire foreign workers to fill positions they cannot find local candidates for. The program was made permanent in 2022 and continues to prioritize applicants who can contribute to the economic and linguistic diversity of Atlantic Canada.

French-speaking applicants benefit from the provinces’ focus on bilingual workforce development and community expansion. Several provincial governments actively recruit candidates who speak both French and English to strengthen their labour markets and meet official language goals.

Eligibility Highlights

Applicants must have a valid job offer from a designated Atlantic employer and meet the educational, work experience, and language requirements based on their occupation type. For most skilled positions, French speakers must demonstrate at least NCLC 5 in all language skills.

To achieve NCLC 5 on the TEF Canada, applicants must score at least:

  • Listening: 181
  • Speaking: 226
  • Reading: 151
  • Writing: 226

These scores confirm an intermediate level of French that allows workers to communicate effectively in bilingual workplaces across the Atlantic provinces.

Program Advantages for French-speaking Workers

The Atlantic provinces place a strong emphasis on recruiting francophone professionals to support regional bilingualism and population growth. French-speaking candidates often have an advantage, especially in communities with established French-language schools, services, and cultural networks.

The AIP offers several benefits, including:

  • A clear route to permanent residence with employer support
  • Faster processing times compared with other economic programs
  • No requirement for a Labour Market Impact Assessment
  • Opportunities to work in healthcare, hospitality, trades, technology, and education
  • Support for settlement, including language training and family integration services

Provincial Focus on Francophone Recruitment

Each Atlantic province has developed its own initiatives to attract and retain French-speaking immigrants. For example, New Brunswick continues to expand francophone recruitment through partnerships with employers and community organizations, while Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island promote bilingual workforce growth through designated employer outreach.

French-speaking applicants who secure a job offer through the Atlantic Immigration Program can take advantage of provincial settlement support, mentorship programs, and language resources designed to help them integrate successfully.

Summary

The Atlantic Immigration Program is an ideal option for French-speaking professionals who want to build a career and life in Eastern Canada. With moderate language requirements, employer sponsorship, and permanent residence opportunities, it provides a stable and welcoming environment for francophone workers and their families.

Elliott Immigration can guide you through every step of this process, from finding designated employers to preparing your application and ensuring you meet the language and settlement requirements for success. We are more than happy to help you on your journey!