Prince Edward Island has introduced a modernized Expression of Interest system for employers seeking endorsements under the Atlantic Immigration Program. The province announced a soft launch of the new system on October 22, 2026. During the transition period, designated employers can use either the new EOI system or the traditional submission process.

The change is important because PEI is currently applying a more targeted approach to AIP endorsement applications.

Which Sectors Can Currently Apply?

At present, Prince Edward Island is accepting AIP endorsement application packages for workers in three sectors:

• Healthcare
• Construction
• Manufacturing

Candidates working in other sectors are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest profile for consideration through the PEI Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) instead.

This means having an eligible AIP job offer does not automatically mean an employer can submit an endorsement application at this time. The province’s current intake priorities need to be considered.

Transport Truck Drivers Face a Specific Restriction

PEI has also confirmed that applications for Transport Truck Drivers under NOC 73300 are not currently being accepted through its AIP.

Candidates in this occupation are instead encouraged to review the Workforce Streams under the PEI Provincial Nominee Program.

This is an important distinction for foreign workers because an occupation that may be eligible under the federal AIP framework does not necessarily mean that PEI is currently accepting endorsement applications for that occupation.

How the New PEI AIP EOI System Works

The Atlantic Immigration Program is an employer-driven permanent residence pathway for skilled foreign workers and international graduates who want to settle in Atlantic Canada.

For PEI, the process begins with a designated employer.

The employer must:

1. Hold PEI designated employer status.
2. Offer an eligible full-time, non-seasonal position.
3. Demonstrate a genuine labour market need where required.
4. Meet recruitment requirements where applicable.
5. Work with a settlement service provider.
6. Verify that the candidate meets AIP eligibility requirements.

Under the new EOI process, the designated employer submits a separate profile for each qualified candidate.

PEI reviews submitted profiles based on its labour-market needs. Candidates who are selected can then be invited to submit a full endorsement application.

What are the Candidate Requirements?

Federal AIP requirements still apply.

Depending on the circumstances, candidates generally need qualifying work experience or may qualify through an Atlantic Canadian education exemption. Education requirements vary according to the TEER level of the offered position.

Language requirements are also based on the occupation’s TEER category.

Candidates must also meet settlement requirements unless an applicable exemption applies and must have a valid settlement plan through a designated service provider.

Most importantly, provincial endorsement is only one part of the process. After receiving a Certificate of Endorsement, the candidate must submit the permanent residence application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

IRCC remains responsible for assessing the federal permanent residence application, including admissibility requirements.

What This Means for Employers and Workers

The new PEI system signals a more structured approach to managing AIP demand.

Employers should confirm that their sector and candidate fit PEI’s current intake priorities before proceeding.

Candidates outside healthcare, construction and manufacturing should not assume that the AIP is currently their most appropriate PEI pathway. A PEI PNP Workforce Stream may be more relevant depending on their occupation, job offer and other eligibility factors.

For employers and workers, professional immigration support can be useful when deciding whether an AIP endorsement or provincial nomination route is the better option.

What Happens After Endorsement?

Once PEI approves an endorsement application, the Certificate of Endorsement is provided to the designated employer, who forwards it to the candidate.

The candidate can then apply to IRCC for permanent residence.

If a work permit is required while the PR application is processed, additional federal requirements apply. Employers may also need to complete the applicable Employer Portal process and pay the federal employer compliance fee.

Frequently Asked Questions