Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced an increase in the settlement funds required for individuals immigrating through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), effective July 29, 2025. The adjustment accounts for inflation and aims to ensure that newcomers have sufficient financial resources to successfully transition and settle in Canada’s Atlantic provinces.
According to Maple News, prospective immigrants applying through AIP in 2025 will need to demonstrate a modest increase in available funds—approximately $140 more than was required in 2024. For example, a single applicant will now need to show at least $3,815 in settlement funds, up from $3,672 last year, a 3.89% increase.
The required amount of settlement funds varies by family size. For a two-member household, the new threshold is $4,750, while families of four must show $7,090. For each additional family member beyond seven, applicants must demonstrate an extra $1,028. These figures are calculated to reflect the rising cost of living across Canada’s Atlantic region, which includes Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.
Applicants already residing and working in Canada under a valid work permit are exempt from providing proof of settlement funds. However, new applicants from outside Canada must meet these financial requirements unless otherwise exempted.
To determine the size of your family for immigration purposes, IRCC includes you, your spouse or common-law partner, your dependent children, and any dependent children of your spouse or common-law partner. This count applies regardless of whether they will accompany you to Canada or if they are already Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
For proof of funds, IRCC requires official letters from financial institutions where you hold your assets. These letters should detail your financial profile, including bank account balances, average monthly balances over the past six months, and any outstanding debts or loans.
The Atlantic Immigration Program offers a pathway to permanent residence for skilled foreign workers and international graduates seeking to live and work in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces. Ensuring applicants are financially equipped to settle successfully remains a key aspect of the program’s design.
Maple News will continue monitoring updates to Canada’s immigration policies and programs to keep prospective immigrants informed.