What is a settlement plan and an endorsement, and how do they fit into the process?

The AIP has a defined sequence. Once a designated employer offers you a job, you are connected with a settlement service provider to create a settlement plan for you and your family. You send that plan to your employer, who applies to the province for endorsement of the job offer.

The province then issues you a provincial endorsement certificate, and may provide a work permit support letter if you need to start working before PR is finalised. With the endorsement certificate and your other documents you submit your permanent residence application to IRCC, which reviews and processes it. Skipping or rushing the settlement plan is a common mistake, because endorsement depends on it.