Canada increases proof of funds for Atlantic Immigration Program

A recent IRCC notice has increased the proof of settlement funds required for the Atlantic Immigration Program. If you plan to immigrate to Canada under the AIP in 2025, this update could directly imply your eligibility for application.

Let us simplify it in a conversational manner so that you get what all this means and how it influences your plans.

Why This Matters

The proof of funds is a mandatory requirement for almost all Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) applicants. The goal of the funds is to prove that, in the first instance, the immigrant can support himself/herself and any dependent family members upon their arrival in Canada.

This requirement gets updated every year based on the 12.5% of the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) totals in Canada-and yes, it just got pricier. Settlement fund requirements were put into effect on July 29, 2025.

Check Your Eligibility for Canada PR

Who Needs to Show Proof of Funds?

You must show proof of funds if:

• You’re applying through the Atlantic Immigration Program.
• You’re not already working in Canada with a valid work permit.

If you are already in Canada and lawfully employed on a valid permit, you have nothing to worry about with respect to this update.

How Much Money Do You Need Now

The required amount depends on your family size, and yes, it includes everyone, even if they’re not coming to Canada with you (including Canadian citizens or PRs).

Updated July 29, 2025

Here’s the thing: If your application does not match these updated figures, you may be rendered ineligible. Therefore, make sure that you evaluate your actual savings and make the necessary adjustments to your plans.

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What Counts as Proof?

Canada wants to know that this money belongs to you. Therefore:

Proof of funds should be:

• Readily accessible at the time of applying AND when you receive your PR visa.
• Not borrowed (no, not a loan to show funds).
• Legally yours on the day of landing.

Funds must be in your name or jointly with your spouse. If your spouse's name is the sole holder of the account, you will need to prove that you have access to those funds as well.

Acceptable Documents You’ll Need

• Bank letters printed on official letterhead
• Contact information of the bank
• Details of your accounts (type, balance, date opened)
• A list of debts outstanding, like credit cards or loans
• 6-month average balance for each account

Tip: Bring More if You Can

More always helps! The more, the better: Expenses vary across the Atlantic provinces, such as:

• New Brunswick
• Nova Scotia
• Prince Edward Island
• Newfoundland and Labrador

And it could be more expensive to settle here than expected. And hey, if you are bringing over 10,000 CAD, make sure to declare it at customs; otherwise, you may be penalised.

What’s Next?

This update may seem retrogressive, but it aims toward the smooth transition of the new entrants. Get your finances reassessed if you find yourself serious about relocation through the Atlantic Immigration Program.

Want to know how this change may affect your plans? From New Brunswick PNP to Nova Scotia PNP to Newfoundland and Labrador PNP, experienced immigration advisors can take you through the processes while keeping you updated.

Be aware, be prepared, and soon enough, you will be beginning life on the beautiful East Coast of Canada.

Source: canada.ca

Tags: Atlantic Immigration Program Work Permit New Brunswick PNP Newfoundland and Labrador PNP Nova Scotia PNP Prince Edward Island PNP proof of funds for Atlantic Immigration Program Canada Immigration News