New Brunswick’s Work-Permit Lifeline for AIP PR Applicants: What You Need to Know

In response to soaring processing times for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), the province of New Brunswick is stepping in with a supportive measure for endorsed applicants whose work permits may expire before their permanent residence applications are processed. This blog will break down what the new measure entails, who qualifies, why it is being introduced and what this means for you as an applicant.

What’s the New Measure?

The province is now issuing letters of support for C18-closed work permits to AIP endorsees whose current work permit is set to expire before their PR application under the AIP is processed. With this letter in hand, the applicant can apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the new work permit and continue working for the designated employer while their PR application remains in limbo.

Who Qualifies?

• Endorsees under the Atlantic Immigration Program in New Brunswick.
• Must have a C18 closed-work-permit situation where their current permit may expire before PR finalization.
• Must notify New Brunswick of any changes in employment situation (employer, position, job loss) since those can impact the endorsement certificate.

Why Is This Needed Now?

Processing times for AIP permanent-residence applications have jumped from about 13 months to 37 months since the beginning of October 2025. Meanwhile, standard AIP work permits are limited to up to two years only, and applicants are not eligible for the bridging open work permit (BOWP) under IRCC. This mismatch leaves many applicants at risk of losing work authorization before their PR applications are approved.

How Does It Work (Step-by-Step)

1. The endorsed AIP candidate in New Brunswick realises their work permit may expire before PR is granted.
2. They contact Immigration New Brunswick (INB) using the “Post-Endorsement Request Form” to request a letter of support for a C18 closed work permit.
3. With the letter of support, they file a work permit application to IRCC to secure continued authorization to work for the employer while the PR application remains in process.

Implications for Applicants

• This lifeline provides much-needed stability and peace of mind for AIP candidates in New Brunswick who would otherwise risk job loss or status expiry.
• Employers benefit as well, because the candidates they endorsed can continue working without interruption—reducing hiring-/training-repetition costs.
• It also sets a potential precedent: other Atlantic provinces may follow suit, though they have not yet confirmed similar measures.

Key Considerations and Tips

• Ensure your endorsement certificate remains valid and that you keep the employer/position aligned with the endorsement. Any change (employer, role, location) must be reported, and endorsement may need updating.
• Act proactively: don’t wait until your work permit expires to begin the process of securing the letter of support. Timing is critical.
• Stay informed of IRCC processing-time trends and how they impact your status. Long delays in PR finalization can impact work-permit strategy.
• Consult an immigration expert if you have complex employment changes or anticipate risk situations.

Conclusion

New Brunswick’s announcement represents a strong signal of support to AIP candidates who might otherwise face status loss due to long PR processing delays. If you are an AIP endorssee in New Brunswick, this measure may be a game-changer in preserving your work status while you wait for PR. Stay vigilant, act early, and ensure you follow the required steps to retain eligibility.