Prince Edward Island (PEI) has unveiled its 2026 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw schedule, offering a transparent and structured pathway for skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs aiming to settle in this picturesque Canadian province. As the only province to publicly release its annual draw dates in advance, PEI provides applicants with a unique opportunity to plan their immigration journey proactively.
PEI PNP Draw Dates for 2026
The PEI Office of Immigration has scheduled 12 draws:
- January 15, 2026
- February 19, 2026
- March 19, 2026
- April 16, 2026
- May 21, 2026
- June 18, 2026
- July 16, 2026
- August 20, 2026
- September 17, 2026
- October 15, 2026
- November 19, 2026
- December 17, 2026
These draws focus on candidates in the Labour Impact, Express Entry, and Business Impact categories. Applicants are encouraged to ensure their Expression of Interest (EOI) profiles are up-to-date and align with the eligibility criteria of their chosen stream.
Understanding the PEI PNP Streams
1. Labour Impact Category
- Skilled Worker Stream: For individuals with a job offer in PEI in a skilled occupation.
- Critical Worker Stream: Targets workers in in-demand, lower-skilled occupations, such as truck driv
- ers and food service workers.
- International Graduate Stream: Designed for recent graduates from PEI institutions with a job offer in the province.
2. Express Entry Category
Aligned with the federal Express Entry system, this stream is for candidates who meet the requirements of one of the federal economic immigration programs and have a valid Express Entry profile. A provincial nomination through this stream adds 600 points to a candidate's Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, effectively guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
3. Business Impact Category
For entrepreneurs looking to invest in and actively manage a business in PEI.
Recent Draw Highlights
On January 15, 2026, the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) held a new draw under its Expression of Interest (EOI) system and issued 26 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for provincial nomination.
The draw mainly targeted candidates with valid job offers in Prince Edward Island, especially those working in priority occupations that support the province’s labour market needs. PEI also continued its focus on retaining international graduates who are already studying or working in the province, as they are considered more likely to settle long term.
Through this draw, Prince Edward Island reaffirmed its employer-driven immigration approach, selecting candidates who can contribute immediately to the local economy. The province remains selective and strategic, inviting applicants who align closely with its workforce shortages and economic growth plans for 2026.
Tips for Prospective Applicants
- Maintain an Active EOI Profile: Ensure your EOI profile is complete and reflects your current qualifications and experience.
- Understand the Selection Criteria: Familiarize yourself with the factors that PEI considers when selecting candidates, such as language proficiency, education, work experience, and adaptability.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check the official PEI immigration website for updates on draw dates and eligibility requirements.
