Prince Edward Island's Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) Update: Key Changes and Impact on Immigrants

Introduction

Prince Edward Island (PEI) has introduced significant changes to its Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), limiting it to workers in three key sectors: healthcare, construction, and manufacturing. This decision, effective January 24, 2025, means foreign nationals working in other industries will need to explore alternative pathways for permanent residency (PR) in Canada.

This blog will cover:

• Eligibility criteria for AIP

• Application process for PR through AIP

• Alternative PR pathways for workers outside these sectors

• The rationale behind these changes

• Real-world impact on businesses and immigrants

Understanding the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)

The AIP is a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who wish to settle in one of Canada’s Atlantic provinces: Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Nova Scotia.

Eligibility Criteria for AIP

To qualify for the AIP, applicants must:

• Have a job offer from a designated employer in an Atlantic province.

• Have their job offer endorsed by the province.

• Meet education requirements based on the National Occupation Classification (NOC) TEER level:

  • TEER 0 or 1: At least a one-year post-secondary credential.

  • TEER 2, 3, or 4: Minimum of a high school diploma.

• Have a language proficiency of CLB 5 (TEER 0-3) or CLB 4 (TEER 4).

• Possess at least one year of work experience or a two-year post-secondary credential obtained in an Atlantic province.

• Demonstrate sufficient settlement funds based on family size.

How to Apply for PR Through AIP

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you must:

1. Obtain a settlement plan.

2. Have your job offer endorsed by the province.

3. Submit an application to the federal government for permanent residency.

Alternative PR Pathways for Workers in Other Sectors

If you are not working in healthcare, construction, or manufacturing, you can explore other immigration options, such as:

1. Express Entry Program

A fast-track federal system for skilled workers seeking PR. Applicants must meet requirements under one of these categories:

• Canadian Experience Class

• Federal Skilled Worker Program

• Federal Skilled Trades Program

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score plays a crucial role in determining the likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Those with a higher CRS score or eligibility for category-based draws (e.g., strong French proficiency or in-demand occupations) have better chances of success.

2. Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)

For those who do not qualify for AIP or Express Entry, the PEI PNP provides another pathway to PR. Streams include:

• Critical Worker (TEER 4 & 5)

• Intermediate Experience (TEER 4)

• International Graduate (For PEI post-secondary graduates)

• Skilled Worker (TEER 0-3)

• Occupations in Demand (Includes truck drivers, construction workers, healthcare support, and manufacturing roles)

A provincial nomination can boost Express Entry candidates’ CRS scores by 600 points, increasing their chances of receiving an ITA for PR.

Why Has PEI Restricted AIP to Three Sectors?

Due to a reduction in Canada’s federal immigration quotas, Atlantic provinces have had to adjust their nomination allocations. PEI now prioritizes in-demand occupations to address local labor shortages, similar to New Brunswick, which has also limited its AIP endorsements to healthcare, construction, and education.

Real-World Impact: Businesses & Immigrants

Impact on Employers

• Construction companies will now have a more reliable talent pipeline.

• Healthcare facilities can fill critical roles faster, reducing staffing shortages.

• Manufacturing businesses benefit from a steady workforce, addressing industry demands.

Impact on Immigrants

• Skilled workers in the restricted sectors will find easier access to PR.

• Those in other industries will face higher competition in alternative PR pathways.

• Temporary workers must now explore options like PEI PNP or Express Entry.