Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada’s smallest province, consists of the main island and several surrounding isles. Known as the “birthplace of Canada,” PEI hosted the Charlottetown Conference in 1864, which led to the country’s formation. The province is famous for its scenic coastlines, lush farmland, and thriving economy driven by agriculture, tourism, and fishing.
The PEI Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) allows skilled and experienced individuals targeted by the province to apply for a Provincial Nomination Certificate. This nomination enables them to apply for Canadian permanent residence through the federal government.
Summary of the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP)
The PEI PNP, launched in 2001, helps attract and retain immigrants who can contribute to the province’s economy. PEI has the highest per capita immigration rate in Canada, welcoming over 2,000 newcomers annually since 2015. The program works alongside the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) to support economic growth.
PEI PNP Categories
The program has three main categories:
- Express Entry Category (Enhanced Stream)
- No job offer required.
- Candidates must have an Express Entry profile and be eligible for one of the federal economic immigration programs (FSWP, FSTP, or CEC).
- A provincial nomination grants an additional 600 CRS points, ensuring an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
- Labour Impact Category (Base Stream) – Requires a job offer from a PEI employer.
- Skilled Worker Stream: For those in skilled professions (NOC 0, A, B).
- Critical Worker Stream: For semi-skilled or unskilled workers in high-demand occupations (e.g., truck drivers, laborers, food service).
- International Graduate Stream: For recent graduates of PEI institutions working in a skilled role related to their field of study.
- Business Impact Category (Work Permit Stream) – For entrepreneurs who wish to invest in and actively manage a PEI business.
- Requirements: Minimum net worth of CAD $600,000, secondary education, business/management experience, and CLB 4 in language proficiency.
Application Process
Candidates must create a profile in PEI’s Expression of Interest (EOI) system and receive an invitation before applying. Successful applicants receive a provincial nomination, allowing them to apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
