PEI Updates AIP Rules, Prioritizes Three Key Sectors

Prince Edward Island (PEI) has introduced an updated Expression of Interest (EOI) system for employers seeking worker endorsements through the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).

The province announced the soft launch on October 22, 2026, giving designated employers a new way to submit candidate information for immigration consideration.

During the transition, employers can continue using the traditional application process or choose the new online system.

The changes aim to help PEI manage immigration applications according to local workforce needs.

Three Employment Sectors Remain the Priority

PEI currently accepts AIP endorsement applications only for workers employed in healthcare, construction and manufacturing.

These restrictions mean that having a qualifying job offer does not automatically make a candidate eligible for endorsement in the province.

Workers in other industries are encouraged to explore the PEI Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which provides alternative immigration opportunities for eligible applicants.

The province has maintained these sector restrictions since January 24, 2025.

Transport Truck Drivers Remain Excluded

The province has also confirmed that transport truck driver applications under National Occupational Classification (NOC) 73300 are not currently accepted through its Atlantic Immigration Program.

Truck drivers interested in settling in PEI can instead review the Workforce Streams under the provincial nominee program.

However, applicants must meet the requirements of those streams, and selection is not guaranteed.

How the New Application System Works

The Atlantic Immigration Program allows eligible foreign workers and international graduates to pursue permanent residence through participating Atlantic Canadian employers.

Under PEI's updated system, employers must first obtain designated employer status.

They must provide qualifying full-time, non-seasonal employment, demonstrate genuine hiring needs, complete recruitment requirements where applicable, and arrange settlement support.

Designated employers then create individual EOI profiles for qualified candidates.

PEI's Office of Immigration reviews these profiles and identifies candidates who meet provincial workforce priorities.

Selected candidates receive invitations to proceed with full endorsement applications.

An EOI submission alone does not guarantee endorsement.

What Foreign Workers Must Know

Federal eligibility requirements remain unchanged.

Depending on their circumstances, applicants generally need qualifying work experience or must meet the education exemption available to certain Atlantic Canadian graduates.

Education and language requirements depend on the skill level of the offered occupation.

Applicants must also satisfy applicable settlement requirements and obtain a settlement plan through an approved service provider.

After PEI approves an endorsement, the employer receives a Certificate of Endorsement and forwards it to the worker.

The worker can then apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residence.

IRCC makes the final immigration decision, including assessing admissibility.

What Happens Next?

Employers seeking to hire foreign workers should review PEI's sector priorities before preparing applications.

Workers outside the three priority industries may find provincial nominee pathways more suitable.

Those requiring temporary work permits while awaiting permanent residence must meet additional federal requirements.

Employers may also need to submit employment information through IRCC's Employer Portal and pay the applicable compliance fee.

The updated system gives PEI greater control over selecting workers based on regional employment demands.