AIPP vs. Express Entry: Choosing the Right Path to Canada


atlantic immigration pilot program vs express entry

Last Updated On : March 14 , 2024


Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program

The AIP program, initiated in 2017, is a joint endeavour between the Government of Canada and the Atlantic provinces, including New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island. Designed to address labour shortages and enhance economic growth, the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) focuses on attracting and retaining skilled immigrants in the region.

New Brunswick:

  • The AIP offers a pathway to permanent residency for skilled foreign workers and international graduates from recognised post-secondary institutions in Atlantic Canada aiming to work and settle in New Brunswick.
  • Candidates require endorsement from a designated employer.
  • Employers in New Brunswick have the opportunity to recruit qualified candidates for positions they have struggled to fill locally.
  • NB Processing time for AIP applications are expected to extend to approximately 12 months to ensure successful integration into the region and improve immigrant retention rates in Atlantic Canada.

Nova Scotia:

  • Nova Scotia AIP Program aids employers in recruiting skilled foreign workers and international graduates to address labour needs in the province.
  • Building on the success of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP), which concluded in 2021, the program continues to thrive.
  • NS Processing time for AIP applications typically range from 6 to 12 months.

Prince Edward Island (PEI):

  • PEI’s AIP facilitates permanent residency for skilled foreign workers and international graduates.
  • Employers must receive designation from the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism (OIM) and pledge support for newcomers.
  • PEI Processing time for AIP applications may vary but generally hover around 6 months.

Newfoundland and Labrador:

  • The AIP plays a crucial role in addressing permanent labour shortages and skill gaps by supporting skilled foreign workers and international graduates.
  • Employers must obtain designation from the Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism (OIM).
  • NL Processing times for AIP applications vary but typically range between 6 and 12 months.
  • These processing times are approximations and may vary based on individual cases. For further assistance, please contact the respective Provincial Atlantic Immigration Center (PAIC) in each province.

Express Entry

Express Entry is a system managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to process permanent residency applications for skilled workers through three federal economic immigration programs.

1) The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): for individuals with foreign work experience.

2) The Canadian Experience Class (CEC): for those with Canadian work experience.

3) The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): for skilled trade’s people.

Eligibility is determined by criteria such as work experience and Canadian Language Benchmark proficiency.

AIPP vs Express Entry: Major Factors

AIPP Vs Express Entry

Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program prioritises swift processing, with most applications aimed to be completed within six months. Its processing time is generally shorter compared to other Canada immigration programs, provided all eligibility criteria are met.

Express Entry system, features varying processing times across its programs:

  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC) typically takes around 7 months.
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) require approximately 27 months each.
  • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) usually sees processing times of about 22 months.

IELTS Score Comparison

To be eligible for Canada’s Express Entry program, candidates are required to have a minimum IELTS score of 6 in each of the four language abilities (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) or a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 7. Once an immigrant achieves an IELTS score of 6 in each band, they can create an Express Entry profile and submit it into the Express Entry pool.

For Canada's AIPP, language proficiency of CLB level 4 or higher in IELTS English or French is mandatory.

CRS Score Comparison

The Express Entry system utilises the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to assess candidates based on various factors. The maximum CRS score is 1,200 points, encompassing core/human capital factors, skill transferability factors, spouse or common-law partner factors, and more. 

The required CRS score has been modified based on the most recent express entry draw.

The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) has its eligibility criteria based on Canadian provinces, and the CRS score is not a factor for this program.

Job Offer Requirement: 

Job Offer Requirement: For AIPP, you must secure a job offer from a designated employer in Atlantic Provinces.

The job requirements for Express Entry may differ based on various economic immigration programs.

  • FSWP: A valid job offer is optional but adds CRS points.
  • FSTP: Requires a valid job offer in skilled trade for a year or certification.
  • CEC: No job offer needed, but can earn selection points.

Conclusion

The Express Entry program offers greater flexibility and a more diverse range of pathways for skilled workers seeking permanent residence in Canada. With its Comprehensive Ranking System, consideration of various factors, and broader selection criteria, Express Entry provides a more versatile and competitive avenue for immigration than the AIPP.

F.A.Q.

The main difference between AIPP and Express Entry is that AIPP does not use a points-based system like Express Entry. Instead, it requires a valid job offer from an employer designated by the province.
The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is tailored to accommodate skilled workers and international graduates seeking to establish themselves in the Atlantic provinces of Canada.
The Atlantic Immigration Program encompasses the provinces of New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.
Those eligible to apply for the Atlantic Immigration Program in Canada are skilled workers and international graduates who have a valid job offer from an employer designated by one of the Atlantic Provinces.