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International Graduates Take Center Stage in Prince Edward Island’s First 2026 PNP Draw
Prince Edward Island conducted its first Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) selection round of 2026 on January 15, in line with its expected Invitation to Apply (ITA) schedule.
The draw focused on candidates with strong ties to the province, with special priority given to international student graduates from select designated learning institutions (DLIs).
Draw results
Through this draw, the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) issued a total of 26 Invitations to Apply to candidates already living and working in the province.
Invitations were issued under two immigration pathways:
- Labour Impact
- PEI Express Entry
The Labour Impact category includes the Skilled Worker, Critical Worker, and International Graduate streams.
Candidates working in priority sectors and occupations with high economic value to the province were targeted. Prince Edward Island’s priority sectors for 2026 remain unchanged from 2025 and include healthcare, skilled trades, and manufacturing.
Among those invited, additional preference was given to international graduates from the following institutions:
- University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
- Holland College
- Collège de l’Île
This approach reflects the province’s broader immigration strategy, as many PEI PNP draws in 2025 followed similar selection criteria. The continuation of this trend suggests that PEI will maintain its focus on local graduates and in-demand workers throughout 2026.
For comparison, PEI’s first PNP draw of 2025 issued 22 invitations, primarily to candidates working in the healthcare sector or holding confirmed job offers in the province.
Upcoming PEI PNP draws
If Prince Edward Island follows its anticipated schedule, the next draws are expected to take place on February 19, March 19, and April 16.
The province has clarified that these dates are tentative and provided for general information only. Draws may occur earlier, later, or in addition to the listed dates. However, PEI followed its published schedule for most of its draws in 2025, increasing the likelihood of similar adherence in 2026.
How candidates can qualify for future PEI draws
To be considered for a PEI PNP invitation, foreign nationals must first create an account on Prince Edward Island’s official immigration website and submit an Expression of Interest (EOI).
Candidates are ranked through PEI’s EOI system based on their potential to contribute to the provincial labour market and economy. Selection factors include:
- Language proficiency in English or French
- Education level, field of study, and location of education
- Work experience and skills in high-demand occupations
- Alignment with PEI’s current labour market priorities
- Employment prospects, such as a valid job offer or prior Canadian work experience
Applicants with higher EOI scores and strong settlement potential are more likely to receive an Invitation to Apply for provincial nomination.