Facing mounting delays in permanent residence (PR) processing, Immigration New Brunswick (INB) has introduced a new safety net for foreign workers endorsed under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).
The province will now issue letters of support allowing eligible AIP candidates to apply for C18 closed work permits, ensuring they can keep working for their current employers while waiting for PR decisions.
Recent IRCC data show that AIP processing times have nearly tripled from 13 to 37 months, leaving many applicants at risk of losing their legal status since AIP work permits are valid for only two years and are not covered by the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP).
To qualify, endorsees must remain with their designated employer and report any job changes to INB. Those needing a support letter must submit a Post-Endorsement Request Form before applying to IRCC.
The AIP remains a key pathway for skilled workers in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador, linking employers with long-term newcomers ready to settle in Atlantic Canada.
