New Brunswick Introduces Critical Work Permit Support for AIP PR Applicants
Fredericton, New Brunswick — In a major relief for skilled workers awaiting permanent residence under the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), the Government of New Brunswick has announced a new measure allowing eligible applicants to maintain their right to work while their PR applications are still in process.
With federal processing times for AIP applications recently increasing dramatically, this initiative serves as a vital safeguard for workers who are at risk of losing their legal work status and income stability.
New Brunswick Steps In to Protect AIP Workers
Under this new policy, Immigration New Brunswick (INB) will now issue letters of support to AIP endorsees whose work permits are set to expire before their permanent residence is finalized.
These letters allow applicants to apply for a C18 closed work permit, ensuring they can legally continue working for their designated employer during the prolonged processing period.
This measure is designed specifically for AIP endorsees who already hold valid job offers from designated employers in New Brunswick and whose endorsement certificates remain active.
AIP workers must promptly report any employment-related changes — such as job loss, change of employer, or position — since these can affect their endorsement status and overall eligibility for continued support.
Why the Support Was Urgently Needed
Processing delays for Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) applications have grown sharply since October 2025.
According to recent federal data, average processing times have increased from 13 months to 37 months, leaving many skilled workers in uncertainty.
Because AIP candidates are not eligible for the Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) program — which allows other PR applicants to continue working while waiting — many were facing the risk of losing work authorization once their two-year employer-specific permit expired.
The new provincial measure bridges this gap, giving endorsees the ability to retain valid work status and continue contributing to the province’s economy while awaiting final PR decisions.
How to Apply for the New Brunswick Support Letter
AIP endorsees who need a letter of support for a C18 work permit must submit a Post-Endorsement Request Form to Immigration New Brunswick.
Once received and approved, the province will issue the letter, which the applicant can then use to apply directly to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the new work permit.
This step ensures that the applicant remains legally employed and maintains continuous status in Canada throughout their PR process.
Impact Across Atlantic Canada
It remains uncertain whether other Atlantic provinces — Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador — will implement similar policies.
However, New Brunswick’s proactive approach highlights a growing need for regional governments to support foreign workers facing bureaucratic delays beyond their control.
This move also reflects the province’s ongoing commitment to labour market stability and immigrant retention, as AIP workers play a crucial role in filling essential jobs across healthcare, construction, manufacturing, and hospitality sectors.
About the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
The Atlantic Immigration Program is a collaborative initiative between the federal government and four Atlantic provinces. It provides a pathway to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who have a full-time job offer from a designated employer in the region.
To qualify under the AIP, candidates must meet specific criteria, including:
- Relevant work experience in their field
- Proof of language proficiency in English or French
- Minimum educational qualifications
- Sufficient settlement funds
Once approved, the candidate receives an endorsement certificate from the province, which allows them to apply for permanent residence. While waiting, they may obtain a temporary work permit to begin working immediately.
A Lifeline for Skilled Workers
By offering this new C18 work permit support, New Brunswick ensures that hundreds of AIP applicants do not fall out of legal status or lose employment while contributing to the provincial economy.
This practical measure is expected to strengthen worker retention, support employers, and keep families stable during extended federal processing delays.
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