PEI Restricts Atlantic Immigration Program to Three Key Sectors

Publish Date: 26/02/2025

Prince Edward Island (PEI) has announced a major change to the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), limiting eligibility to workers in healthcare, construction, and manufacturing as of January 24, 2025.

Key Changes to AIP in PEI

Only workers in healthcare, construction, and manufacturing can apply under the AIP.
No endorsement applications will be accepted for workers in other sectors.
Foreign workers in other sectors must explore alternative pathways to permanent residence (PR).
PEI employers outside these sectors must rely on other PR or work permit programs to hire foreign workers.

AIP Eligibility Requirements

Requirement	Details
Job Offer	Must be from a designated employer in an Atlantic province
Endorsement	The job offer must be endorsed by the province
Education	- NOC TEER 0 or 1: 1-year post-secondary credential - NOC TEER 2, 3, or 4: High school diploma
Language Proficiency	- TEER 0, 1, 2, 3: CLB 5 - TEER 4: CLB 4
Work Experience	- 1 year of work experience, OR - 2-year post-secondary credential earned in an Atlantic province
Settlement Funds	Must show sufficient funds based on family size

Alternative PR Pathways for Foreign Workers in PEI

Workers outside the three eligible sectors can explore options like:

✅ Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – PEI PNP may offer PR pathways for certain occupations.
✅ Express Entry – Candidates with skilled work experience may qualify.
✅ Work Permits – Employers can hire workers through LMIA-based work permits or International Mobility Program (IMP).

PEI’s AIP restriction aligns with labor market needs, prioritizing high-demand sectors for long-term economic growth.