Ottawa sets 90-day deadline for Atlantic Immigration Program
The federal government has introduced a strict 90-day deadline for Atlantic Immigration Program applicants to submit updated documents if their employment
The Canadian government has imposed a new 90-day deadline for Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) applicants whose job circumstances change. Immigration officers must now refuse permanent residence applications if the required updated documents are not provided within that timeframe, according to updated instructions published on July 23, 2026.
Previously, there was no set deadline for such situations. Applications would simply be put on hold until the necessary paperwork arrived. The new rules, detailed in a document titled "Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): Other situations," require officers to first issue a procedural fairness letter informing the applicant of the 90-day requirement.
Specific scenarios and documentation
The updated instructions from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) outline specific rules and document requirements for three key scenarios involving employment changes. The source states that the rules also introduce guidance for a situation not previously covered: a change in employer ownership.
| Scenario | Required Action & Documentation |
|---|---|
| Change in employer ownership | Province must reassess employer designation and endorsement. Applicant must submit provincial confirmation letter or updated endorsement/offer within 90 days. |
| Employment change with same employer (e.g., wages, occupation) | Applicant must submit updated provincial endorsement certificate and updated Offer of Employment (IMM 0157) form via IRCC web form within 90 days. |
| Change from one designated AIP employer to another | Applicant must submit updated provincial endorsement certificate and updated IMM 0157 form within 90 days. |
Change of employer ownership
For the first time, the instructions address what happens if an AIP applicant's employer is sold or changes ownership while the permanent residence application is being processed. In this case, the endorsing Atlantic province must reassess the employer to decide if it keeps its AIP designation and if the applicant retains provincial support.
If the province continues to support the applicant, federal officers can proceed with the application provided the applicant submits the correct documentation within 90 days. The required document depends on the province's decision regarding the employer's designation. If the province revokes its support, the officer must refuse the application.
Employment and employer changes
The rules are now more precise for applicants who change roles with the same employer. If the change affects wages, occupation, working conditions, or the National Occupational Classification code, the applicant must submit an updated provincial endorsement and an updated Offer of Employment form. The source notes that for a change in job title alone, officers must decide on a case-by-case basis if an updated endorsement is needed.
For applicants switching from one designated AIP employer to another, the new 90-day deadline and the requirement to submit the IMM 0157 form are now explicitly stated. The previous instructions did not specify the need for this form.
The Atlantic Immigration Program context
The AIP is a pathway to permanent residence for foreign nationals with a job offer from a designated employer in New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island. Applicants must also meet requirements for work experience, education, language, and settlement funds.
Due to a current processing time of 26 months for permanent residence applications, many in-Canada AIP applicants risk losing work authorization. Unlike other programs, AIP applicants are not eligible for bridging open work permits. However, they can apply for a two-year, employer-specific work permit tied to the job offer supporting their application. Spouses or common-law partners may be eligible for an open work permit.
The updated instructions have also moved requirements related to AIP-specific work permits into a separate document covering general eligibility and assessment.
