Updates to New Brunswick’s Atlantic Immigration Program
On September 14, 2026, Immigration New Brunswick (“INB”) announced two significant changes to the Atlantic Immigration Program (“AIP”).
First, the province has paused the acceptance of new employer designation applications for the remainder of 2026. This pause, initially introduced on a temporary basis earlier in the year, was intended to allow INB to review its existing pool of designated employers and ensure the program remains aligned with provincial goals and New Brunswick’s evolving economic priorities.
Second, INB has removed its previous restriction on candidate endorsements for workers in the accommodation and food services sector (NAICS 72). Most occupations within this sector are once again eligible for AIP endorsement. However, a number of specific roles still remain restricted, including shippers and receivers, retail and wholesale trade managers, restaurant and food service managers, retail sales supervisors, food service supervisors, retail salespersons and visual merchandisers, retail and wholesale buyers, and fish and seafood plant workers.
It is important to note that employers seeking to hire foreign nationals who are currently residing outside Canada remain subject to additional limitations. Endorsement applications for these candidates are restricted to recruitment initiatives led by the Government of New Brunswick and are available only in the health care, education, and construction sectors.
If you have questions about how these changes to the AIP may affect you, our Immigration Group can help.
This client update is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. If you have any questions about the above, please contact the author, or a member of our Immigration Group.
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