FROM HOPE TO REALITY
PEI is considered “the birthplace of Canada”. The “Charlottetown conference” — which led to the country’s formation — took place in PEI in 1864. The island province is renowned not only for its lush farmland and beautiful coasts, but it is also home to a burgeoning economy centred around agriculture, tourism, and fishing.
The Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) was established in 2001 to enhance the province’s ability to attract and retain immigrants who can meet its economic and labor market needs. As a result, PEI has become known for welcoming the highest number of immigrants per capita in Canada, boasting an immigration rate of around 1.6% prior to the pandemic, compared to the national average of 0.9%.
Key points about the PEI PNP:
Increasing Immigration Rates: Since the introduction of the PEI PNP, the province has seen a significant rise in immigrant intake, welcoming over 2,000 newcomers annually since 2015. Before the PNP, fewer than 200 immigrants arrived each year.
Enhanced and Base Categories: The PEI PNP includes one enhanced category aligned with the federal Express Entry system (the PEI PNP Express Entry category) and two base categories (Labour Impact and Business Impact).
Express Entry Alignment: If candidates are nominated through the enhanced category, they receive an additional 600 CRS points, which virtually guarantees an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in the subsequent Express Entry draw.
Atlantic Immigration Pilot: The PEI PNP works in conjunction with the Atlantic Immigration Pilot (AIP), which allows employers in Atlantic Canada to hire foreign workers for positions they are unable to fill locally.
Overall, the PEI PNP is a vital tool for the province, helping to meet labor demands and drive economic growth through immigration.
If you’re looking to immigrate to Prince Edward Island (PEI), you have three main pathways under the PEI Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):
1. PEI PNP Express Entry
Eligibility: Candidates must have a valid Express Entry profile.
Focus: This stream targets individuals whose skills align with PEI’s current labor market needs.
Process: After receiving a nomination, candidates can apply for permanent residence through the federal Express Entry system.
2. Labour Impact Category
This category is aimed at skilled workers and international graduates. It consists of three streams:
Skilled Worker Stream: For skilled workers with job offers from PEI employers.
Critical Worker Stream: Targets workers in occupations that are in high demand but may not require specific post-secondary education.
International Graduate Stream: For recent graduates from PEI post-secondary institutions who have job offers in their field of study.
3. Business Impact Category
Purpose: Designed for individuals looking to invest in a PEI business.
Process: Applicants can obtain a work permit to operate and learn about the business before receiving a provincial nomination. This pathway is ideal for entrepreneurs who wish to establish or buy a business in PEI.
Each of these categories has specific requirements and processes, so it’s important to assess your eligibility and gather the necessary documentation before applying.
Job Offer Required? No
Application Fee: CAD $300
Processing Time: Approximately 6 months
Minimum Requirements:
Express Entry Profile: You must have a valid profile in the federal Express Entry system.
Eligibility for Federal Programs: You need to qualify for one of the three main federal economic class immigration programs:
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
For PGWP Holders or Spousal Open Work Permit Holders:
Your Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) must have at least four months of validity at the time of submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).
You must have studied outside of PEI (or be a spouse to someone who studied outside PEI).
You need at least nine months of work experience with a PEI employer.
How It Works:
1. Create an EOI Profile: Start by creating a profile in the Prince Edward Island Expression of Interest system. You’ll answer various questions to assess your eligibility.
2. Points Assessment: Your profile will be scored based on a selection system points grid, with a maximum score of 100 points.
3. Regular Draws: The province conducts regular draws, inviting the highest-scoring candidates to apply for a provincial nomination. You’ll receive an email notification if selected.
4. Submit Application: If invited, complete the necessary application forms. Your employer must also fill out specific employer forms. Submit your application within 60 days.
5. Provincial Nomination: If your application is successful, you’ll receive a provincial nomination. You must accept this nomination through your Express Entry account.
6. Permanent Residence: With the nomination, you are likely to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence in the next Express Entry draw.
This stream provides a pathway for skilled workers to establish themselves in PEI, contributing to the province’s economy while gaining permanent residency in Canada.
PEI PNP Labour Impact Category
The Labour Impact Category includes three streams, each designed for different types of workers seeking to settle in Prince Edward Island.
1. Skilled Worker Stream
Overview: For workers who have been identified or hired by a PEI employer.
Eligibility:
Currently working in PEI or have a job offer from a PEI employer.
Must work in a skilled profession.
Must have relevant experience and at least a post-secondary degree or diploma.
2. Critical Worker Stream
Overview: For workers already hired by a PEI employer who wish to be sponsored for permanent residence.
Eligibility:
Must be employed in a semi-skilled or unskilled profession.
Must have the support of your PEI employer for your application.
3. International Graduate Stream
Overview: For recent graduates from accredited universities and colleges in PEI.
Eligibility:
Must have already been hired by a PEI employer.
Must work in a skilled profession related to your field Application Details
Application Fee: CAD $300
Processing Time: 6 months or less
Minimum Requirements for All Streams:
Age: Must be between 21 and 59 years old.
Job Offer: Must have a full-time permanent job offer or at least a two-year job offer from a PEI employer in an eligible position.
Settlement Funds: Must demonstrate sufficient funds to settle in PEI.
Intention to Reside: Must show the intention to live in PEI.
Language Requirements: Must meet Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 4 in English or French.
This category aims to attract skilled workers and graduates to support the province’s economic growth and labor market needs.
ategory | Is a job offer required? | Additional Requirements |
---|---|---|
Skilled Worker Stream | Yes |
|
Critical Worker Stream | Yes |
|
International Graduate Stream | Yes |
|
The Work Permit Stream is designed for individuals looking to invest in a business in Prince Edward Island (PEI). This stream allows you to work in Canada while you learn about the business you plan to invest in.
Eligibility Check: Ensure you meet all minimum requirements for the Work Permit Stream.
Profile Creation: Create a profile to register your interest in the PEI Expression of Interest (EOI) system. Your profile will remain active for six months, during which you can update it if needed.
Invitation to Apply: If you are successful in the EOI, you will receive an invitation to apply via email, along with further instructions. You will have 60 days to submit your application.
Application Submission:
Interview: If your application is approved, you will be invited for an in-person interview to discuss your business proposal and plan.
Performance Agreement: After the interview, you must submit a signed Performance Agreement. Upon approval, you will receive a letter of support from PEI, which allows you to apply for a work permit with IRCC.
Relocation: After obtaining your work permit, you are required to move to PEI and report to the PEI Office of Immigration within 30 days. You will be assigned a Settlement Officer to assist you.
Nomination and Permanent Residence: If you fulfill the conditions of the Performance Agreement and other requirements, you will be nominated by PEI, allowing you to apply for Canadian permanent residence with IRCC.
THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION is a well-established Canadian immigration law firm, boasting over 11 years of experience in the field. With a team of more than 60 dedicated immigration lawyers, paralegals, and professionals, the firm is committed to assisting individuals in navigating the complexities of the Canadian immigration process.
Key Highlights:
THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION Founded as the online platform for IMMIGRATION, it has become one of the most trusted resources for Canadian immigration information since its launch in 2013.
Expertise: The firm specializes in various immigration pathways, including the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and skilled worker categories.
Free Assessment: Interested individuals can start their immigration journey by completing a free THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION assessment form. If eligible, a member of the THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION team will provide further assistance.
If you’re considering immigrating to Canada, THE MILLEENIUM IMMIGRATION can help guide you through the process and ensure you have the support you need to succeed.