Prince Edward Island has conducted its second unexpected draw under the Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP), stepping outside its usual monthly invitation schedule. In a notable development, the province also expanded its eligibility approach by selecting candidates with fewer direct ties to PEI than in recent rounds.
What happened in the latest PEI PNP draw?
The surprise draw was held on December 23, during which 13 candidates received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams. Selection was based on candidates working in occupations and priority sectors that support the province’s economic needs.
This draw marks a clear change from recent PEI PNP trends. In the previous six invitation rounds, the province mainly focused on applicants who were graduates of PEI-based Designated Learning Institutions or those already employed by PEI employers at the time of invitation.
Overall PEI PNP invitations this year
So far this year, PEI has issued a total of 1,609 invitations through the PEI PNP. The vast majority were issued under the Labour Impact and Express Entry pathways, while only one invitation was issued through the Business Work Permit Entrepreneur stream.
Second draw outside the planned schedule
This is the second time this year that PEI has conducted a draw outside its anticipated invitation schedule, which typically plans one draw per month. The first unexpected draw took place on October 27.
Although PEI has not officially explained the reason behind these additional draws, provinces generally aim to fully use their annual nomination allocations, as unused spots cannot be carried forward to the next year.
Understanding nomination limits
Provincial nomination allocations are set by the federal government under Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan. These allocations determine how many candidates a province can nominate for permanent residence each year, while Invitations to Apply simply allow candidates to submit an application for nomination.
In 2025, provincial nomination allocations across Canada were reduced in line with lower permanent resident targets. However, allocations are expected to increase significantly in 2026, offering better opportunities for eligible candidates.
