On this page
- What the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) Covers
- When to Get Help
- Your Rights as a Permanent Resident
- From PR to Citizen
- Maintaining PR Status
- Fees and Processing Times
- Renewing Your PR Card
- Application Process
- Who Qualifies
- Why PR Applications Fail
- Prepare for AIP Canada
- Check Current Processing Times
- Fees
- Required forms
- Related visa types
- Related guides
- Related goals
- Next steps
What the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) Covers
#The Atlantic Immigration Program allows eligible skilled workers and international graduates to apply for permanent residence in Canada’s Atlantic provinces.
You submit required forms and documents to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for assessment under this specific program.
Program summary
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) supports your application for permanent residence if you plan to live and work in Atlantic Canada.
You apply directly to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under this program.
AIP operates separately from other federal and regional pathways.
It is distinct from:
| Program | How It Differs From AIP |
|---|---|
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | Requires a provincial nomination under a separate stream. |
| Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker) | Uses the Express Entry system for candidate selection. |
| Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) | Targets specific rural and northern communities outside the Atlantic region. |
Under AIP, you provide detailed personal, employment, and background information so IRCC can assess your eligibility for permanent residence.
You must complete required forms such as Form IMM 0008 and any Atlantic-specific documentation, including Form IMM 0157, as part of your application package.
IRCC reviews your submission to determine whether you meet program requirements and whether you can become a permanent resident of Canada through this pathway.
Who it serves
AIP serves two main groups who want to settle in Atlantic Canada:
- Eligible skilled workers
- Eligible international graduates
You must intend to live and work in one of Canada’s Atlantic provinces.
The program focuses on individuals who plan to establish themselves economically and socially in the region.
This pathway does not operate through Express Entry, and it does not require you to apply under the Federal Skilled Worker class.
It also does not replace the Provincial Nominee Program.
Instead, it offers a dedicated process for candidates who meet AIP criteria.
You apply directly to IRCC using the required permanent residence forms.
IRCC evaluates whether you qualify under AIP rules and whether your documentation supports your eligibility.
Basic program steps
You follow a structured process when applying under the Atlantic Immigration Program.
-
Confirm your eligibility as a skilled worker or international graduate intending to settle in Atlantic Canada.
-
Complete required forms, including:
IMM 0008 (Generic Application Form for Canada)
-
IMM 0157 (Atlantic Immigration Program form, if required)
-
Gather supporting documents requested by IRCC.
-
Submit your application to IRCC for assessment.
-
Wait for a decision on your permanent residence application.
IRCC assesses the information and documents you provide.
You must ensure that your forms are complete and accurate, as incomplete submissions can delay processing or lead to refusal.
If IRCC approves your application, you receive permanent resident status under the Atlantic Immigration Program and can settle in the Atlantic province you identified in your application.
When to Get Help
#You should seek professional guidance when your eligibility is unclear, your family situation changes, or your application involves background or identity complications.
These issues can delay or jeopardize your Atlantic Immigration Program application if you do not address them correctly with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Complex status & eligibility issues
Get help if you are unsure whether you qualify under the Atlantic Immigration Program or if you are comparing it to options like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker), or the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
Each program follows different selection rules and documentation standards.
You should also seek advice if:
- You may not meet eligibility requirements.
- You previously applied under another economic program.
- You are applying under a Quebec economic program and require a Certificat de Sélection du Québec (CSQ).
- Your contact information is outdated and IRCC cannot reach you.
Incorrect or incomplete forms such as Form IMM 0008 can lead to processing delays.
A representative can review your forms and confirm that your program choice matches your qualifications.
| Issue | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Possible ineligibility | IRCC may refuse your application |
| Wrong program selection | Processing delays or refusal |
| Missing CSQ (Quebec cases) | Application cannot proceed |
| Outdated contact details | Missed IRCC requests or deadlines |
If you are unsure about eligibility, address it before you submit.
Family changes & dependants
Changes in your family structure require immediate updates to IRCC.
This includes marriage, divorce, separation, birth of a child, or adding a dependant.
You must ensure:
- All family members are properly declared.
- Information on IMM 0008 and related forms remains accurate.
- Background checks for dependants are complete before submission.
If you use the “X” gender identifier, you must submit a Request for a Change of Sex or Gender Identifier (IRM 0002) form.
Missing this form can delay processing.
Errors involving dependants often affect admissibility and eligibility.
Professional review reduces the risk of omissions that could impact permanent residence approval.
Security, background checks & special cases
Background checks must be complete before you submit your application.
If a background check is still in progress for you or a family member, your application may face delays.
You should seek help if:
- A background check has not concluded.
- You are unsure how to disclose prior issues.
- IRCC requests additional information related to security screening.
IRCC manages application processing, while the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) handles admissibility at the border.
If your case involves potential admissibility concerns, careful documentation becomes critical.
Special cases require precise disclosure and supporting documents.
Addressing these issues early helps prevent refusals or extended processing times.
Your Rights as a Permanent Resident
#
As a permanent resident approved under the Atlantic Immigration Program, you have the right to receive official identity documents and to have eligible family members processed as part of your application.
You must provide accurate personal and travel information to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to secure and maintain this status.
Identity & travel documents
You must provide your passport or travel document number exactly as it appears on the document you use for travel.
IRCC records this number in your permanent residence file, including forms such as Form IMM 0008 and, where required, Form IMM 0157.
Any mismatch between your application and your passport can delay processing or create identity concerns.
Use this checklist when preparing your documents:
- Passport or travel document number written exactly as shown
- Correct spelling of your full legal name
- Matching date of birth across all forms
- Consistent information in every IRCC form you submit
| Item | What You Must Do | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Passport number | Copy it exactly, including letters and numbers | Confirms your identity |
| Travel document | Use the same document throughout the process | Prevents processing delays |
| IRCC forms | Ensure all entries match your passport | Avoids discrepancies |
If you renew or replace your passport, update your records with IRCC to keep your file accurate.
Including family members
You may include eligible family members in your permanent residence application under the Atlantic Immigration Program.
You must provide full details for each person you include.
This information forms part of your application record with IRCC and must match their identity documents exactly.
Provide the following for each family member:
- Full legal name as shown on their passport
- Date of birth
- Passport or travel document number written exactly as issued
- Any other identifying details requested in the application forms
List every family member you intend to include at the time you submit your application.
Incomplete or inconsistent details can affect processing under the Atlantic Immigration Program, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker), or other pathways such as the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) if you apply through them.
From PR to Citizen
#You become a permanent resident (PR) through the Atlantic Immigration Program and then work toward Canadian citizenship.
Your path depends on meeting ongoing residency and legal requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Typical follow-up pathways
After IRCC approves your permanent residence application under the Atlantic Immigration Program, you receive PR status.
You must comply with all residency obligations and maintain your status before you apply for citizenship.
Your process generally follows these steps:
-
Submit your PR application to IRCC (including forms such as Form IMM 0008 and any required program-specific forms such as Form IMM 0157, if applicable).
-
Receive confirmation of permanent residence from IRCC.
-
Live and work in Canada while meeting residency obligations.
-
Apply for Canadian citizenship once you meet IRCC’s citizenship requirements.
IRCC sets citizenship eligibility criteria.
You must review the current requirements directly through IRCC before applying.
Key factors you must monitor:
- Physical presence in Canada
- Ongoing compliance with Canadian laws
- Accurate tax filings, if required
- Valid PR status at the time of application
For official timelines, document checklists, and fees in CAD (CA$), consult IRCC’s citizenship guidance.
IRCC processes citizenship applications, while the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) manages admissibility at the border.
Where this program fits
The Atlantic Immigration Program is a direct permanent residence pathway.
It differs from temporary-to-PR routes because you apply for PR from the start.
The table below shows how it compares to other federal and regional programs:
| Program | PR Granted Directly? | Managed by | Regional Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic Immigration Program | Yes | IRCC (with provincial endorsement) | Atlantic provinces |
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | Yes | Provinces + IRCC | Province-specific |
| Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker) | Yes | IRCC | National |
| Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) | Yes | IRCC + participating communities | Rural/Northern communities |
Unlike Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker), the Atlantic Immigration Program relies on employer designation and provincial endorsement rather than a federal ranking system.
Like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), it ties your PR pathway to a specific region.
After you become a PR, your long-term goal—if you choose—is citizenship through IRCC’s standard naturalization process.
Maintaining PR Status
#You must keep your permanent resident status valid by meeting documentation requirements and promptly reporting family changes to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Delays or omissions can affect your status under the Atlantic Immigration Program and related pathways.
Residency & documentation
IRCC expects you to keep valid legal documents, including proof of your permanent resident status and residence documents.
Expired or missing documents can complicate travel, employment verification, and future applications under programs such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker), or the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
Keep copies of all forms and records submitted with your original application, including:
- Form IMM 0008 (Generic Application Form for Canada)
- Form IMM 0157 (Atlantic Immigration Program forms, if applicable)
- Confirmation of permanent residence documents
- Updated identity and civil status records
If you renew or replace any official document, retain both the old and new versions.
IRCC may request proof that your status has remained continuous.
Check the IRCC website for current document renewal procedures and application requirements before you travel or submit new immigration applications.
| Document Type | What You Must Do |
|---|---|
| PR status documents | Keep valid and accessible |
| Residence records | Maintain updated copies |
| Application forms (IMM 0008, IMM 0157) | Retain submitted versions for reference |
Family status updates
You must inform IRCC if your family composition changes after you apply or after you become a permanent resident.
Report changes such as:
- A dependant turning 18 years old
- Adding one or more dependants to your application
- Any change in marital or parental status reflected in legal documents
When a dependant turns 18, their documentation requirements may change.
You must update IRCC with revised forms or supporting records as required.
If you add a dependant, submit updated application details and supporting civil documents through the process specified by IRCC.
| Situation | Required Action |
|---|---|
| Dependant turns 18 | Update records and provide revised documentation if requested |
| New dependant added | Submit updated forms and legal documents to IRCC |
Failure to report accurate family information can affect your status and any future sponsorship or immigration applications.
Always use the official IRCC process to submit updates.
Fees and Processing Times
#You must pay IRCC processing fees when you submit your permanent residence and any related work permit applications.
Processing times are not fixed in law, so you should confirm current timelines directly with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Fees overview
Most Atlantic Immigration Program applicants file for permanent residence using Form IMM 0008 (Generic Application Form for Canada).
As of February 2026, the filing fee for this application is:
| Application type | Fee (CA$) |
|---|---|
| Permanent residence (IMM 0008) | 1,525 |
If you apply for a work permit while your permanent residence is in process, IRCC charges:
| Permit type | Fee (CA$) |
|---|---|
| Work permit (including extensions) – per person | 155 |
IRCC may update fees at any time.
The Atlantic Immigration Program operates outside Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker) and is distinct from streams managed under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Fees for programs like the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) may differ.
Processing times depend on case volume and whether your application is complete.
Biometrics & group fee notes
Most applicants must provide biometrics after submitting their application to IRCC.
| Service | Fee (CA$) |
|---|---|
| Biometrics (per person) | 85 |
This biometrics fee is paid in addition to your permanent residence and work permit fees.
IRCC sets maximum group fees in specific situations.
For example:
- A maximum CA$500 may apply to certain family groups if:
All family members apply at the same time and place.
-
All children qualify as dependants.
-
A work permit group cap may apply to three or more performing artists and their staff who apply together at the same location.
These group rules do not apply to every Atlantic Immigration Program applicant.
Review IRCC’s current instructions before submitting IMM 0008 or related forms such as Form IMM 0157.
Renewing Your PR Card
#You must keep your information current with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and ensure all required documents remain valid.
Delays often happen because applicants fail to report changes in family status or submit expired medical results.
When to update contact & documents
Update your contact details with IRCC as soon as they change.
This includes your mailing address, email, and phone number.
If IRCC cannot reach you, your PR card renewal may stall.
You remain responsible for missing correspondence.
You must also report changes in family status, such as:
- Marriage or divorce
- Birth or adoption of a child
- Death of a dependent
- Separation from a spouse
Submit updated legal documents that reflect these changes.
If your permanent residence was connected to an application under the Atlantic Immigration Program, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker), or the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), ensure your records match your original file, including forms such as Form IMM 0008 or Form IMM 0157 if previously submitted.
| Type of Change | What You Should Provide |
|---|---|
| Address update | New mailing and residential address |
| Family status change | Legal certificates (marriage, divorce, birth, death) |
| Dependent update | Revised identification and supporting documents |
Keep copies of everything you submit.
Medical exam & validity reminders
You must ensure medical exam results for all included family members remain valid if IRCC requires them for your file.
Expired medical results may require a new exam.
IRCC may request updated medical documentation during processing.
Act quickly to avoid delays.
Pay attention to:
- Validity of previous medical exams
- Whether all dependents completed required exams
- Any request letters from IRCC
If your permanent residence application involved accompanying family members under programs such as the Atlantic Immigration Program, their medical validity still matters for record consistency.
| Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Valid medical results | Prevents processing delays |
| Exams for all family members | Maintains compliance with PR conditions |
| Prompt response to IRCC | Keeps your application moving |
Check your IRCC account regularly and respond within the deadline stated in any official request.
Application Process
#You apply directly to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under the Atlantic Immigration Program by submitting required forms and supporting documents.
Accuracy, complete answers, and valid exams for all applicants at the same time are necessary to avoid delays.
Forms, who fills them and categories
As the principal applicant, you must complete the Generic Application Form for Canada (Form IMM 0008).
You complete and submit IMM 0008 online.
IRCC requires you to answer every question unless the form states otherwise.
On IMM 0008, you must:
- Select “Economic” in Question 1
- Choose Atlantic Immigration Program as your category
- Confirm whether you previously applied under programs such as:
Atlantic Immigration Program
-
Agri-Food Pilot
-
Federal Skilled Worker (Express Entry)
-
Provide your full name exactly as shown on your passport or travel document
-
State your current marital status and disclose any prior marriages or common-law relationships
-
List your intended occupation in Canada
-
Provide details of your education
Download and complete the form electronically to reduce errors.
Submit a signed and dated version with the barcode page on top if you file a paper application.
| Form | Who completes it | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| IMM 0008 | Principal applicant | Declares economic class, personal details, education, occupation, prior applications |
The Atlantic Immigration Program is separate from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker), and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
You must select the correct category.
Step-by-step submission
Follow a structured process to avoid refusal for incompleteness.
-
Complete IMM 0008 online and validate all fields.
-
Confirm your category as Atlantic Immigration Program under Economic immigration.
-
Ensure all medical exams are valid at the same time for every person included.
-
Gather required legal and personal documents.
-
Submit your application to IRCC, either online or as a paper application if permitted.
IRCC requires a fully completed application before processing begins.
Missing signatures, unanswered questions, or absent documents can result in return of the application.
If you need current fee amounts in CAD (CA$), use the IRCC fee calculator before submitting payment.
Evidence & validations
You must submit supporting evidence with your application.
Do not rely on later submissions unless IRCC requests them.
Include:
- Valid medical exam results for all applicants, valid at the same time
- Identity documents showing your full legal name
- Documents confirming marital history, if applicable
- Education details
- Information about your intended occupation in Canada
Ensure all forms are signed and dated where required.
If you submit a paper application, place the barcode page on top as instructed.
| Requirement | Key Rule |
|---|---|
| Medical exams | All applicants’ exams must be valid simultaneously |
| Names | Must match passport or travel document exactly |
| Marital history | Disclose current and past relationships |
| Category selection | Must match Atlantic Immigration Program |
IRCC assesses completeness first.
Provide clear, consistent information across all forms and documents to prevent processing delays.
Who Qualifies
#You qualify only if you secure a qualifying job offer and fit into an approved worker category.
You must also show that you intend and are eligible to live in one of the four Atlantic provinces.
Employer & job offer requirements
You must have a valid job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada.
The employer must participate in the Atlantic Immigration Program and meet the program’s requirements.
Your job offer must:
- Be issued by a designated employer in an Atlantic province
- Meet the program requirements set by the province
- Support your application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
You cannot apply without this offer.
Unlike the Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker) program, you do not enter a points-based pool.
You apply based on a direct job offer.
You must also receive a referral letter from the Atlantic province where you will work.
This letter confirms that the province supports your permanent residence application.
When you apply for permanent residence, you submit your forms to IRCC, including Form IMM 0008 and Form IMM 0157, along with the required supporting documents.
| Requirement | Atlantic Immigration Program |
|---|---|
| Job offer required | Yes |
| Employer must be designated | Yes |
| Provincial referral letter | Yes |
| Express Entry profile required | No |
Education & worker categories
You must qualify under one of two categories:
- Recent international graduate of a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada
- Skilled worker
If you are a recent graduate, you must have completed your studies at a recognized institution in one of the Atlantic provinces.
The program does not accept graduates from institutions outside Atlantic Canada under this category.
If you apply as a skilled worker, you must have a qualifying job offer from a designated employer in the region.
The program accepts applicants who are:
- Living abroad, or
- Living in Canada as a temporary resident
The Atlantic Immigration Program operates separately from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and the former Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
You apply directly under this program rather than through Express Entry or a PNP stream.
| Category | Key Requirement |
|---|---|
| International Graduate | Graduate of recognized Atlantic institution |
| Skilled Worker | Job offer from designated Atlantic employer |
Province-specific evidence
You must show that you intend and are eligible to live in the Atlantic province supporting your application.
The province must issue you a referral letter confirming that it supports your application for permanent residence under the Atlantic Immigration Program.
Your application to IRCC must include:
- The provincial referral letter
- Your qualifying job offer
- Completed permanent residence forms, including IMM 0008 and IMM 0157
- Evidence that you plan to reside in the designated Atlantic province
IRCC assesses your permanent residence application.
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) determines admissibility if you seek entry at a port of entry.
If you cannot demonstrate a genuine plan to live in the supporting province, IRCC can refuse your application.
Why PR Applications Fail
#Most refusals and returns under the Atlantic Immigration Program happen because you submit an incomplete package, miss required signatures or barcodes, or fail to include mandatory provincial and employer documents.
IRCC does not correct these mistakes for you; it returns or delays the file.
Missing required items
IRCC returns many Atlantic Immigration Program applications because required documents are missing at intake.
You must include every item listed in the official document checklist and submit a fully completed checklist with your package.
If you leave it out, IRCC can return the entire application without processing it.
Common missing items include:
- Valid job offer from a designated employer
- Referral letter from the Atlantic province
- Completed and validated Form IMM 0008
- Required supporting documents listed in the checklist
- Confirmation of whether you previously applied under the program
If you do not have a job offer from a designated employer, you do not meet a core program requirement.
Filing anyway does not lead to approval.
The Atlantic Immigration Program is separate from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker), and the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
Submitting documents meant for another program does not satisfy Atlantic Immigration Program requirements.
Use this quick reference:
| Requirement | Consequence if Missing |
|---|---|
| Designated employer job offer | Application cannot succeed |
| Provincial referral letter | Application returned or refused |
| Completed document checklist | Package returned |
| Required forms (e.g., IMM 0008) | Processing delays or return |
Form & validation errors
IRCC frequently returns applications because forms are incomplete, unsigned, or improperly validated.
You must sign and date all required forms.
If you do not, IRCC returns the application to you.
Validation errors also cause delays.
After you validate IMM 0008, you must include the generated barcode page and place it on top of your application package.
If you omit the barcode page or place it incorrectly, IRCC may delay processing.
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Leaving mandatory fields blank
- Providing inconsistent or incorrect information
- Forgetting signatures or dates
- Failing to include validated barcode pages
Even small inconsistencies can slow processing.
Double-check every field before submission.
IRCC processes what you submit; it does not correct incomplete answers for you.
Program-specific omissions
The Atlantic Immigration Program has requirements that do not apply to other permanent residence streams.
You must clearly indicate whether you previously applied under this program.
Failing to answer this question can delay assessment.
You also need both:
- A job offer from a designated employer
- A provincial referral letter
These documents are specific to the Atlantic Immigration Program and are not interchangeable with documents used under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker), or the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
Submitting an application without meeting these program-specific conditions does not lead to approval.
IRCC assesses whether you meet every stated requirement before it approves your application.
Prepare for AIP Canada
#Prepare your Atlantic Immigration Program application with precision.
You must complete the correct IRCC forms, validate them properly, and organize supporting documents exactly as required before submission.
Use the checklist
Start by downloading Document Checklist: Atlantic Immigration Program (IMM 0155). Use it as your control document from the first day you prepare your file.
Follow a structured process:
-
Gather each required document.
-
Check it off on IMM 0155.
Arrange documents in the same order as the checklist if you're submitting a paper application.
You must complete all required IRCC forms in full. This includes:
- Generic Application Form for Canada (Form IMM 0008)
- Family and dependent details
- Current immigration status and history
- Any changes in marital status
- Number of family members included in your application
If your family situation changes, update your forms before submission.
If you appoint a representative, your contact details must match what's provided on Use of a Representative (IMM 5476).
Do not leave questions blank. Incomplete forms delay processing under the Atlantic Immigration Program.
Organize, validate & print documents
You need to validate your electronic forms before printing. On forms such as IMM 0008, click the “Validate” button to generate the barcode page.
After validation:
- Print all pages, including the barcode page
- Sign and date where required
Place the barcode page on top of your application package.
Arrange your documents in the same sequence listed on IMM 0155. This helps IRCC review your file efficiently.
Use this structure when assembling your package:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Validate all required forms |
| 2 | Print complete forms with barcode page |
| 3 | Sign and date all signature fields |
| 4 | Organize documents in checklist order |
| 5 | Attach barcode page on top |
Ensure personal details are consistent across all forms. This includes:
- Telephone and email
- Address
- Financial and employment information
- Medical or status details
- Dependents’ native language (if applicable)
Errors or missing signatures can result in return of your entire application.
Review everything carefully before submission to IRCC.
Check Current Processing Times
#IRCC publishes estimated processing times for the Atlantic Immigration Program and updates them regularly.
You need to understand how IRCC calculates these estimates, what can delay your file, and how to confirm the timeline that applies to you.
As of March 2026, the standard processing time for the Atlantic Immigration Program is:
| Program | Estimated Processing Time |
|---|---|
| Atlantic Immigration Program (Standard) | 12–24 months |
How processing times are calculated
IRCC calculates processing time based on how long it expects to finalize an application if it receives it today. The clock starts the day IRCC receives your complete application and ends when it makes a decision.
For permanent residence under the Atlantic Immigration Program, this includes forms such as:
- Form IMM 0008 (Generic Application Form for Canada)
- Form IMM 0157 (Atlantic Immigration Program-specific form, if required)
If your application is incomplete, IRCC will not process it until you correct the issue.
IRCC’s estimate reflects applications submitted in a specific month and year. It is not a guarantee.
Non‑routine files may take longer to review.
If you apply from outside Canada or the United States, add 3–4 months for mailing and document transit time.
What affects wait times
Several factors directly influence how long your Atlantic Immigration Program application takes:
- The number of applications received compared to Canada’s annual immigration targets
- Whether your application is complete and accurate
- Whether IRCC considers your case routine or non‑routine
- Your processing location
If more people apply than Canada can admit in a given year, processing slows. This affects programs such as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker), and other economic streams, not just the Atlantic Immigration Program.
External events can also affect timelines. In certain situations, IRCC may not publish reliable estimates for specific regions.
You cannot speed up standard processing unless IRCC provides a formal priority pathway.
Verify times for your location
Processing times vary by:
- Program category
- Country of residence
- Where IRCC processes your file
You must check the IRCC processing times tool using a browser with JavaScript enabled. Select:
-
Permanent residence
-
Atlantic Immigration Program
-
Your current country or region
If you apply for a minor (under 18) who lives outside Canada or the United States, confirm the specific timeline that applies to that case.
Do not rely on timelines from other programs such as the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) or Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker). Each program has its own queue and processing structure.
Always confirm the most recent estimate directly with IRCC before you submit your application.
Fees
#| Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Filing fee (IMM-0008)Includes processing fee ($950) + Right of Permanent Residence Fee ($575). Spouse: $1,525. Dependent child: $260. | CA$1,525 (approx $1,113 USD) |
| BiometricsBiometrics: CA$85 (approx $62 USD) (as of 2026-02). Verify the current fee on the official schedule before filing. | CA$85 (approx $62 USD) |
Fees change; always verify on IRCC.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Who processes your application?
IRCC processes visa and permanent residence applications.
If you arrive at a port of entry, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) determines admissibility.
Where can you find processing times and fees?
Processing times and fees fluctuate.
Refer to the IRCC and use the online fee calculator for up-to-date details in CAD (CA$).
What is the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)?
The AIP is a pathway and associated form used to facilitate permanent residence applications for eligible skilled workers and international graduates who want to live and work in Canada’s Atlantic provinces; the form helps applicants provide the required information and documents to IRCC for evaluation.
Who can apply under this program?
Applicants must be either a recent graduate of a recognized post‑secondary institution in Atlantic Canada or a skilled worker, and they must have a job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Canada to participate.
Do I need a job offer to apply?
Yes — you must receive a job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces to participate in the program.
What documents should I gather with my application?
You should gather and submit the documents listed on the program document checklist (Document Checklist: Atlantic Immigration Program [IMM 0155]) and include personal identity documents such as full names and passport or travel document details exactly as shown on those documents.
How long does an AIP permanent residence application take?
Processing times vary, but the program processing time is commonly estimated at 12–24 months; processing times also vary by category and processing location, so verify current times with the issuing authority.
What are the main fees I should expect?
Key fees include the filing fee for the main application (IMM‑0008) and related fees; an example filing fee is CA$1,525 and biometrics are CA$85, and other fee notes apply for groups and related services.
What commonly causes application delays or refusals?
Common problems include failing to submit a completed checklist with the package, not having the required job offer or referral letter, leaving the form unsigned or undated, missing the barcode page, failing to indicate prior applications, and providing incomplete or incorrect information.
Can I start working in Canada while my application is processed?
There is a conditional option to start your application to work in Canada while you wait for a decision (note: this is conditional and depends on your specific situation and permits).
Do I need a provincial referral letter?
Yes — applicants for the Atlantic provinces need a referral letter from the Atlantic province where they’ll be working as part of program requirements.
Does filing an AIP application guarantee approval?
No — filing an AIP application does not guarantee approval; a decision depends on meeting program requirements and IRCC evaluation.
Official sources referenced
Last reviewed: 2026-03-11
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
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