Changes and restrictions to New Brunswick’s Atlantic Immigration Program
New Brunswick has introduced several updates and restrictions to applications under the Atlantic Immigration Program (“AIP”), effective February 3, 2026. These changes affect employers’ participation, applicants’ eligibility, and the process of endorsing applications for skilled foreign workers.
Due to the ongoing restrictions within Canada’s immigration system, New Brunswick has implemented a candidate pool system for endorsement applications under the AIP, similar to the pool system already in place for the Provincial Nominee Program. All new applications will be added to a pool, with selections made monthly based on provincial priorities rather than on a first-come, first-served basis. Applications not selected within 365 days will expire, requiring temporary foreign nationals to submit a new application.
Immigration New Brunswick (“INB”) has also temporarily paused applications for employer designation, thereby preventing new businesses from entering the program. These measures are meant to allow INB to review current designated employers and align the program with provincial economic needs.
The changes also impose restrictions on certain sectors and occupations, which are now excluded from the program. These include occupations in accommodation and food services, such as chefs, cooks, bartenders, housekeeping supervisors, restaurant managers, and related positions. Additional restricted occupations, regardless of sector, include retail and wholesale managers, shippers and receivers, fish and seafood plant workers, and certain customer service roles. However, designated employers who are not directly involved in the accommodation and food services sector may still submit endorsement applications to INB for these positions. It is also worth noting that endorsements for foreign nationals who reside outside Canada are limited to government-led recruitment initiatives in the fields of health care, education, and construction trades.
These changes and restrictions highlight New Brunswick’s emphasis on labour market priorities and the importance of strategic planning when considering participation in the AIP and/or hiring skilled foreign workers through the AIP. Ultimately, staying informed and adjusting recruitment practices in response to these restrictions will allow employers to plan more efficiently while maintaining compliance with immigration laws.
If you have questions about the impact of the changes to the AIP or eligibility requirements for other programs, our Immigration Group can help.
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