P.E.I. seeks feedback on new regulations protecting temporary foreign workers

Prince Edward Island's provincial flag flies on a flag pole in Ottawa, Monday, July 6, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

The Prince Edward Island government is asking for the public’s feedback on new regulations that protect temporary foreign workers.

As part of Phase 2 of the Temporary Foreign Workers Protection Act, the new regulations were developed following a public consultation in spring of 2025 and will introduce employer registration as well as administrative penalties for non-compliance.

“Prince Edward Island is committed to making sure every worker, no matter where they come from, is treated fairly and has access to safe and transparent employment opportunities. These new measures are about taking a proactive approach to building a strong system,” said Workforce and Advanced Learning Minister Zack Bell in a news release.

“Employer registration will help us identify who is hiring foreign workers and ensure they are operating responsibly, while administrative penalties will provide important tools to enforce the law when violations occur.”

The proposed regulations include:

• requiring employers hiring foreign nationals to register with the province
• establishing a publicly accessible employer registry
• requiring employers to provide information about their business, recruitment practices, positions being filled, wages and benefits, and foreign worker employment
• establishing an administrative penalty framework
• introducing penalties ranging from $500 to $3,000 for non-compliance with higher penalties for repeat violations

Phase 1 of the Temporary Foreign Worker Protection Act took effect on April 1, 2025, which introduced licensing requirements for recruiters who recruit foreign nationals for employment in P.E.I.

Islanders can give their feedback on the regulations via email to the province.

For more P.E.I. news, visit our dedicated provincial page.