PEI PNP 2026: First Draw Targets International Graduates

Prince Edward Island Prioritizes International Graduates in First PNP Draw of 2026

Prince Edward Island (PEI) kicked off 2026 with its first Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw of the year on January 15, staying on track with its anticipated immigration schedule. This latest round continues the province’s trend of spotlighting candidates who are already contributing to the local economy—and this time, international graduates from key post-secondary institutions were front and centre.

Key Highlights

• PEI issued 26 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through Labour Impact and Express Entry streams.
• Priority was given to international graduates from UPEI, Holland College, and Collège de l’Île.
• Targeted sectors included healthcare, trades, and manufacturing.
• The province remains committed to its published draw schedule for 2026.
• Next anticipated draws: February 19, March 19, and April 16 (subject to change).
• Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to be considered.

What Happened in PEI’s First PNP Draw of 2026?

On January 15, the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) held its first immigration draw of the year, issuing a total of 26 ITAs under two key immigration categories:

• Labour Impact – which includes the Skilled Worker, Critical Worker, and International Graduate streams
• PEI Express Entry

This draw, like many in recent years, focused on candidates living and working in PEI who are aligned with the province’s economic priorities. These include high-demand sectors such as healthcare, skilled trades, and manufacturing—all critical to the province’s labour market needs.

Spotlight on International Graduates

What really stood out in this draw was the emphasis on international students who graduated from select Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) within the province. These included:

• University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
• Holland College
• Collège de l’Île

By targeting graduates from these institutions, PEI is clearly showing its commitment to retaining international talent and helping young professionals transition from student life to permanent residency—all while supporting the province’s economic development.

How Does This Compare to Previous Draws?

This latest draw is consistent with PEI’s immigration strategy from 2025. For example, the first draw of 2025 issued 22 ITAs, most of which went to healthcare workers with job offers in the province.

Seeing similar selection criteria this early in 2026 suggests that PEI will likely continue to prioritize candidates who are already contributing actively to the province through work or study, especially in key industries.

When Are The Next PEI PNP Draws?

If PEI sticks to its projected schedule (as it did for most of 2025), the next three draws are expected on the following dates:

• February 19, 2026
• March 19, 2026
• April 16, 2026

Keep in mind, these dates are tentative and simply serve as a general guide. The province may conduct draws earlier, later, or even add extra rounds depending on labour market needs.

To stay on top of the PEI PNP draw calendar, be sure to visit our dedicated 2026 PEI draw schedule page.

Want to Be Invited in the Next PEI Draw?

If you’re interested in being considered for an invite from PEI, the first step is submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the province’s immigration portal. This EOI system helps PEI assess and rank candidates based on their ability to integrate and succeed in the local economy.

What Factors Influence Your EOI Score?

PEI evaluates EOIs using a points-based system. Here are the key selection factors:

• Language Proficiency: Strong command of English or French can boost your score.
• Education: Your level of education, field of study, and where you studied are all considered.
• Work Experience: Relevant experience, especially in PEI’s priority sectors, is a major plus.
• Strategic Priorities: Does your profile meet the current needs of PEI’s job market?
• Employment Prospects: Having a valid job offer or past work experience in PEI or elsewhere in Canada can significantly increase your chances.

The higher your EOI score—and the better your potential to settle in PEI long-term—the more likely you are to receive an Invitation to Apply for a provincial nomination.

Why PEI’s Immigration Strategy Matters

Prince Edward Island may be Canada’s smallest province, but it punches above its weight when it comes to attracting and retaining newcomers. By focusing on candidates who are already in the province—especially those who have studied or are working in high-impact industries—PEI is building a stronger, more sustainable local workforce.

For international graduates in particular, this is great news. It means that attending a college or university in PEI isn’t just a great academic decision—it can also be a strategic step toward permanent residency.

If you’re considering your options in other provinces too, Manitoba remains a strong alternative. You can explore your points for nomination under the Manitoba PNP using our helpful calculator.

Final Thoughts

With its first draw of 2026, PEI has made it clear: the province wants to keep skilled, motivated international graduates and workers who already call it home. If you’ve studied or worked in PEI—or plan to soon—now might be the perfect time to submit your EOI and take that next step toward Canadian permanent residency.

Need help navigating your options? Get in touch with our team or check out our PNP resource hub to explore pathways that fit your background and goals.

Ready to see if you qualify? Start your free PNP eligibility assessment and take the next step toward your future in Canada.