After a temporary pause, this morning Canada time | New Brunswick Immigration has just implemented significant changes to the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) effective from February 3, 2026.

1. Change the review method (Pool System)

• Stop the 'submit first, approve later' mode. All Endorsement applications will be entered into the Pool System.

• The province will conduct monthly selection based on the priority level of the provincial economy, not on the submission date. Applications in the Pool are valid for 365 days. If your application is not invited within those 365 days, you will need to submit a new application.

2. Temporarily suspend certain sectors

Immigration New Brunswick (ImmigrationNB) will not consider any applications for positions in the accommodation and food services sector (NAICS 72). However, this does not include the following NOC codes:

• NOC 60030 – Restaurant and Food Service Management

• NOC 62020 – Catering Supervisor

• NOC 62021 – Senior Housekeeper

• NOC 62024 – Sanitation Supervisor

• NOC 62200 – Chef

• NOC 63200 – Cook

• NOC 63202 – Baker

• NOC 64300 – Attendants and Receptionists

• NOC 64301 – Bartender

• NOC 64314 – Hotel Receptionist

However, designated employers who do not directly operate in the accommodation or food services sector (NAICS 72) can still apply for certification with the New Brunswick Immigration Office for these types of jobs.

This change will also not consider any certification applications for the following occupations, regardless of the field:

• NOC 14400 – Shipper and Consignee

• NOC 60020 – Retail and Wholesale Trade Management

• NOC 62010 – Retail Supervisor

• NOC 62101 – Retail and wholesale buyers

• NOC 63201 – Butcher shop – retail and wholesale

• NOC 64100 – Retail Sales and Display Staff

• NOC 64409 – Customer Service Representatives and Other Information Services

• NOC 94142 – Fish and seafood processing plant worker

In addition, for candidates outside Canada, the province focuses on sponsoring only three priority sectors: Y tế | Giáo dục | Xây dựng

With these changes, your profile will become somewhat riskier, but reopening the AIP program after a temporary suspension also creates more opportunities for candidates who want to settle in this province.