Prince Edward Island - PEI

PEI PNP draws 2025

Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP): A Comprehensive Overview (January 2025 to April 2025)

PEI is unique among Canadian provinces for publicly releasing its anticipated Invitation to Apply (ITA) schedule in advance, providing transparency and predictability for prospective immigrants. In 2025, PEI planned 11 draws throughout the year, with the first four taking place between January and April. Below is a detailed breakdown of the draws conducted during this period, based on available information:

1. January 24, 2025

Total Invitations Issued: 22
Streams Targeted: Labour Impact and Express Entry
Focus: Candidates working in or with confirmed job offers in PEI’s healthcare sector.
Details: This was the first PEI PNP draw of 2025, kicking off the year with a focus on addressing critical labor shortages in healthcare. The invitations were issued to candidates already in the federal Express Entry pool or those under the Labour Impact category, with priority given to those with relevant work experience or job offers in PEI.
Significance: The small number of invitations reflects PEI’s targeted approach, prioritizing high-demand sectors to ensure immediate contributions to the local economy.

2. February 20, 2025

Total Invitations Issued: Not specified in available data, but draws were held as per the announced schedule.
Streams Targeted: Labour Impact, Express Entry, and potentially Business Impact.
Focus: Likely continued prioritization of sectors like healthcare, trades, and manufacturing, consistent with PEI’s 2025 labor market priorities.
Details: As the second draw of the year, this event followed the announced schedule, inviting candidates from the Expression of Interest (EOI) pool. Candidates were assessed based on factors such as language proficiency, work experience, and alignment with PEI’s economic needs.
Significance: The February draw reinforced PEI’s commitment to regular, predictable invitations, allowing candidates to plan their applications strategically.

3. March 20, 2025

Total Invitations Issued: 124
Streams Targeted: Labour Impact and Express Entry
Focus: Candidates in healthcare, trades, manufacturing, and potentially other high-demand sectors.
Details: This draw saw a significant increase in invitations compared to January, reflecting PEI’s ongoing need for skilled workers. The focus remained on candidates with job offers or work experience in PEI, particularly in critical sectors.
Significance: The larger number of invitations indicates a ramp-up in immigration efforts to meet labor market demands, especially in industries facing shortages.

4. April 17, 2025

Total Invitations Issued: 168
Streams Targeted: Labour Impact and Express Entry
Focus: Candidates in healthcare, trades, manufacturing, and international graduates from PEI institutions (e.g., University of Prince Edward Island, Holland College, Collège de l’Île).
Details: This was the largest draw in the first four months of 2025, issuing 168 ITAs to skilled workers and graduates. The focus on international graduates highlights PEI’s strategy to retain talent educated within the province. The draw brought the yearly total to 401 invitations by April 2025.
Significance: The substantial increase in invitations underscores PEI’s aggressive approach to addressing labor shortages and retaining local talent, aligning with its economic priorities.

Cumulative Invitations (January–April 2025): By April 17, 2025, PEI issued at least 401 invitations across the four draws, with a strong emphasis on the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams. The Business Impact stream saw minimal activity, with only 10 invitations issued to entrepreneurs over the past 12 months (likely none in these specific draws).

Next Draw: The next anticipated draw is scheduled for May 15, 2025, continuing PEI’s monthly draw schedule.

Processing Times

80% of applications are processed within 8–10 months, making PEI PNP one of the faster provincial programs.
The streamlined process and high acceptance rate (compared to other PNPs) make PEI an attractive option for immigrants.

Policy Priorities

Labor Market Focus: PEI prioritizes sectors with acute shortages, such as healthcare, trades, manufacturing, and, to a lesser extent, childcare and hospitality (e.g., housekeeping attendants). In 2025, the province continued to exclude low-demand sectors like sales and service from invitations to focus on critical needs.
Retention of Talent: The inclusion of international graduates in draws reflects PEI’s strategy to retain students educated in the province.
Alignment with Federal Goals: The Express Entry stream ensures compatibility with Canada’s federal immigration system, while base streams address local needs.

Immigration Levels and PEI’s Role

Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan (2025–2027)

Canada’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan targets 395,000 permanent residents in 2025, a significant reduction from 485,000 in 2024, due to political pressure and concerns about housing and healthcare capacity.
The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocation was halved from 110,000 in 2024 to 55,000 in 2025, impacting the number of nominations provinces like PEI can issue.
Despite the reduction, PEI continues to welcome a high number of immigrants per capita, historically admitting over 2,000 immigrants annually. This trend is expected to persist, though the exact quota for PEI in 2025 is not publicly specified.

PEI’s Immigration Contribution

In 2024, PEI conducted 16 draws, issuing 1,048 ITAs (924 for Labour & Express Entry, 10 for Business Impact).
By April 2025, PEI had issued 401 ITAs, suggesting a slower pace compared to 2024 due to the reduced federal PNP allocation. However, the province’s focus on high-demand sectors ensures efficient use of its quota.
PEI’s immigration strategy aligns with its population framework, aiming to address labor shortages and support economic growth in a province with a population of approximately 156,947 (2019 data).

Impact of Reduced Targets

The halved PNP allocation may limit PEI’s ability to issue as many nominations as in previous years, potentially increasing competition among candidates.
However, PEI’s transparent draw schedule and targeted approach mitigate this by ensuring only the most suitable candidates are invited.

Additional Insights

Why Choose PEI PNP?

Streamlined Process: With processing times of 8–10 months and a high acceptance rate, PEI PNP is one of the most efficient provincial programs.
Transparent Schedule: PEI is the only province to publish its draw dates in advance, allowing candidates to prepare EOI profiles strategically.
Diverse Streams: The program caters to skilled workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs, offering multiple pathways to permanent residency.
High Per Capita Immigration: PEI welcomes more immigrants per capita than any other province, reflecting its openness to newcomers.
Quality of Life: PEI offers a high quality of life with its scenic landscapes, affordable living, and vibrant communities like Charlottetown, known for seafood and cultural heritage.

Challenges and Considerations

Reduced PNP Quota: The federal cut to PNP allocations may result in fewer invitations, increasing the importance of a competitive EOI profile.
Sector-Specific Focus: Candidates in non-priority sectors (e.g., sales and service) may face delays or exclusions, requiring alignment with PEI’s labor needs.
Job Offer Dependency: Many streams require a job offer, which can be a barrier for candidates not already in PEI. However, the Express Entry stream’s no-job-offer pathway offers flexibility.

Tips for Applicants

Update EOI Profiles: Ensure your EOI is accurate and up-to-date, as profiles are valid for only 6 months. Include all relevant work experience, language test results, and job offers.
Target High-Demand Sectors: Focus on healthcare, trades, or manufacturing roles to align with PEI’s priorities.
Leverage Express Entry: If eligible, create an Express Entry profile to access the enhanced stream and benefit from the 600 CRS points boost.
Work with Experts: Consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) to navigate the process, especially given the competitive nature of 2025 draws.
Monitor Draw Schedule: Check PEI’s official website for updates on draw dates and results to stay informed.
PEI PNP Policy: Structure and Eligibility
The PEI PNP, established in 2001, is designed to address the province’s labor market needs and economic priorities while offering accessible pathways to permanent residency. The program operates under three main categories, each with specific streams:
1. Express Entry Category
- Overview: An enhanced stream aligned with Canada’s federal Express Entry system, targeting skilled workers in the Express Entry pool. A provincial nomination adds 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA for permanent residency.
- Eligibility:
- Process: Candidates submit an EOI through PEI’s online system, and the highest-ranked profiles are invited to apply for nomination. Applications are typically processed within 8–10 months (80% of cases).
- Pathways: Two pathways exist—one for candidates with a job offer and one for those without, with preference for those already in PEI.
2. Labour Impact Category
- Overview: A base stream targeting skilled workers and critical workers with job offers in PEI to address labor shortages.
- Streams:
- Process: Candidates submit an EOI, and those with the highest scores based on factors like work experience, education, and job offer are invited to apply.
3. Business Impact Category
- Overview: Targets entrepreneurs willing to invest in and operate a business in PEI.
- Stream: Work Permit Stream (direct permanent residency streams were closed in 2018 due to fraud concerns).
- Eligibility:
- Process: Candidates submit an EOI, and selected candidates receive an ITA to apply for a work permit. After fulfilling the Performance Agreement, they can apply for permanent residency.
- Activity: Minimal invitations (10 over the past year), reflecting a shift toward skilled worker streams.
Expression of Interest (EOI) System
- Candidates must create an EOI profile online, providing details on:
- Profiles are ranked based on a points system, and the highest-scoring candidates are invited in monthly draws.
- EOI profiles remain valid for 6 months and can be considered in multiple draws.

PEI PNP Draws - 2024

January 19, 2023 - PNP Draw

Entrepreneur Stream Invitations : 7

Minimum CRS score Entrepreneur Invitations : 62

Labour and Express Entry Invitations : 216

PNP Draws 2022

January 23 - PEI PNP DRAW SCHEDULE FOR 2022

How often does the Office of Immigration invite people to apply?
The Office of Immigration reviews the Expression of Interest system consistently and will invite individuals to apply to the PEI Provincial Nominee Program each month. The following is the anticipated draw schedule...
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January 20 - PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND (PEI) PNP DRAW

On January 20, 2022, PEI had the first draw of 2022.

Candidates invited - 132
Minimum score - 72

Read more

December 18 - NEW ATLANTIC IMMIGRATION PROGRAM-2021

Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, today announced the launch of the Atlantic Immigration Program. This new permanent program will officially open on January 1, 2022.
The permanent program retains the 3 features that made the pilot such a success: a focus on employers, enhanced settlement support and a collaborative approach across all Atlantic provinces.
Candidates with a valid endorsement can begin submitting applications for permanent residence under the new program on March 6, 2022.
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December 3 - ATLANTIC IMMIGRATION PILOT - CLOSING ON DECEMBER 31, 2021

As of December 31, 2021, the Atlantic Immigration Pilot is closing, and provincial endorsements will no longer be issued. If you have a valid provincial certificate of endorsement, you can still apply for permanent residence under the Atlantic Immigration Pilot until March 5, 2022. The pilot will be replaced with a new program, with details to come.

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October 21 - PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND (PEI) PNP DRAW - OCTOBER 21, 2021

In this Expression of Interest Draw, PEI invites 9 candidates in the Business Stream and 194 in the Labour and Express Entry Stream.
Total: 204 invitations to apply were issued.
Read more

Also review this link for all the draws to date

https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/office-of-immigration/expression-of-interest-draws

September 29, 2021 - PEI PNP Expression of Interest Draws

March 18 - PEI PNP invited 150 Candidates

Business Work Permit Entrepreneur Invitations - 10 : cutoff score - 72

Labour & Express Entry Invitations - 140

February 18 - PEI PNP invited 121 Candidates

Business Work Permit Entrepreneur Invitations - 19 : cutoff score - 82

Labour & Express Entry Invitations - 102

January 21 - PEI PNP invited 211 applicants

Business Work Permit Entrepreneur Invitations - 15 : cutoff score - 80

Labour & Express Entry Invitations - 196

December 17 - PEI PNP invited 195 applicants

Business Work Permit Entrepreneur Invitations - 21 : cutoff score - 85

Labour & Express Entry Invitations - 174

November 19 - PEI PNP invited 254 applicants

Business Work Permit Entrepreneur Invitations -33 : cutoff score - 92

Labour & Express Entry Invitations - 221

October 15 - PEI PNP invited 211 applicants

Business Work Permit Entrepreneur Invitations - 27: cutoff score - 97

Labour & Express Entry Invitations - 184

september 17 - PEI PNP invited 345 applicants

Business Work Permit Entrepreneur Invitations - 32 : cutoff score - 102

Labour & Express Entry Invitations - 277

August 20 - PEI PNP invites record number of candidates in Draw

Today, Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) issued 305 invitations to candidates in Express Entry and Labour Impact stream. Also, 28 candidates in the Business Impact category were invited.

All invited candidates had completed an Express of Interest (EOI) in the province and were living and working in PEI.

August 11 - PEI PNP Draw

Today, Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) issued eight invitations to Express Entry and Labour Impact candidates.

All invited candidates had completed an Express of Interest (EOI) in the province and were living and working in PEI.

July 27 - Prince Edward Island PNP draws update

Prince Edward Island (PEI) PNP invited 312 candidates in June and July. In June PEI held three draws on June 10, 18 and 23, and invited candidates from the Express Entry, Labour Impact stream and the Business Impact stream. The June 23 draw saw an increased in the Business Impact stream as 20 candidates were invited after the last invitation of 10 candidates on February 20, and 13 candidates on January 16.

In July two draws on July 10 and 16 invited candidates from Express Entry, Labour Impact stream and the Business Impact stream. The number of invitations on July 16 saw an increase in the Express Entry Labour Impact stream as 157 candidates were invited, and 29 candidates were invited from the Business Impact stream.

The PEI PNP Express Entry stream is supported with the federal Express Entry system. To be entitled for a nomination, the candidates can apply through the PEI Express Entry stream and needs to:

• Meet the requirements of either the Federal Skilled Worker Class, Federal Skilled Trades Class or the Canadian Experience Class

• Create an online Express Entry profile

Candidates can apply either through the Labour Impact stream which has three categories – International Graduate, Skilled Worker and Critical Worker and need to have a job offer from a PEI employer.

The Business Impact stream supports applicants who are intent in starting a business in PEI. All candidates require to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to PEI PNP.

July 16 - Prince Edward Island Issued 194 Invitations

The number of invitations issued in the Express Entry and Labour Impact stream was 157, and in the Business Impact stream was 29. The minimum score was 117 points for candidates in Business Stream. The minimum score of the Express Entry stream was not provided. The work permit category is mainly for entrepreneurs who are considering to own and run a business.

The Labour Impact Categeory has three streams: International Graudate, Skilled Worker and Critical worker. Applicants require to submit and Express of Interest (EOI) to be eligibile for nomination in this stream.

July 10 - Prince Edward Island Issued 8 Invitations

The total number of invitations issued in the Express Entry and Labour Impact stream was 8. The province has not provided the details of this draw. These candidates now have the opportunity to apply to be nominated for permanent residency in Canada.

June 23 - Prince Edward Island Issued 91 Invitations

The number of invitations issued was 71 for candidates in Express Express Entry and Labour Impact streams . The minimum score was 117 points f. There were 20 invitations in the Business Impact stream . These candidates now have the opportunity to apply to be nominated for permanent residency in Canada.

June 18 - Prince Edward Island Issued 10 Invitations

The number of invitations issued was 10 for candidates in Express Express Entry and Labour Impact streams. There were no invitations in the Business Impact stream . These candidates now have the opportunity to apply to be nominated for permanent residency in Canada.

June 10 - Prince Edward Island Issued 9 Invitations

The number of invitations issued was 9 for candidates in Express Express Entry and Labour Impact Stream. There were no invitations in the Business Impact stream . This draw supported applications who were working in health care and trucking.

March - April - May - Prince Edward Island Issued 48 Invitations

In the above three months PEI PNP issued 48 invitations to application in the Express Entry and Labour impact categories. There were no invitations issues to applicants in the Business Impact stream.

The draws were focused on the trucking industry and workers in healthcare.

February 20 - Prince Edward Island Issued 153 Invitations

The number of invitations issued in the Express Entry and Labour Impact stream was 143, and in the Business Impact stream was 10. The minimum score was 122 points for candidates in Business Stream. The minimum score of the Express Entry stream was not provided. These candidates now have the opportunity to apply to be nominated for permanent residency in Canada.

January 16 - Prince Edward Island Issued 123 Invitations in First 2020 Draw

Prince Edward Island (PEI) invites 123 candidates in the provinces first draw of 2020 on January 16.

The number of invitations issued in the Express Entry and Labour Impact stream was 110, and in the Business Impact stream was 13. The minimum score was 125 points for candidates in Labour Impact stream. The minimum score of the Express Entry stream was not provided. These candidates now have the opportunity to apply to be nominated for permanent residency in Canada.

The total number of invitations in 2019 was 1,629

• Express Entry and Labour Impact stream - 1,436

• Business Impact stream - 193

The objective of the PEI PNP aligns with the provincial goals of attracting immigrants with the skills, experience and economic means to successfully establish themselves in the province, and provides them with a pathway to permanent residency. Candidates who have their profile in the Express Entry system and have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) are given consideration for provincial nomination.

PEI has two streams for immigration:

1) Labour Impact Stream: a) Skilled Worker category b) Critical Worker category

2) Business Impact Stream: a) Work Permit category

September 19 - PEI PNP issues invitations to Express Entry, Labour Impact and Business Work Permit candidates in New Draw

In a recent draw on September 19th, Prince Edward Island (PEI) gave new invitations to apply for a provincial nomination to candidates in its Express Entry, Labour Impact and Business Impact immigration Stream.

A total of 122 invitations were issued to candidates as follows:

1) Express Entry and Labour Impact Stream - 109

2) Business Impact: Work Permit Stream - 13

To enter, through the PEI-PNP Express Entry Program, you need to make a separate Expression of Interest (EOI) profile, and express your interest in the provincial nomination.

Your profile will get an EOI score out of 100 based on education, employment experience, and ability in English or French language. If you get a high score, you will get an invite to apply (ITA) for a provincial nomination through monthly draws.

It is compulsory for candidates in these streams to be residing and working in PEI; or have an appropriate full-time, long-term job offer from an employer in the province, and meet some other requirements.

Those who get a provincial nomination get an extra 600 points toward their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

To date in 2019 PEI PNP has issued 1,031 invitations in the Express Entry and Labour Market Impact streams.

The next draw will take place on October 17, 2019.

August 20 - Prince Edward Island’s latest draw issues 143 Express Entry, Labour and Business invitations

PEI PNP's August 15 draw invited more Express Entry and Labour Impact invitations than last month

The Government of Prince Edward Island sent out 143 invitations to Expression of Interest candidates in the Express Entry, Labour Impact and Business Impact categories of its Provincial Nominee Program.

Candidates who obtain a nomination from the province are awarded 600 additional points towards their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score and are effectively guaranteed an Invitation To Apply (ITA) in a subsequent draw from the Express Entry pool.

The 143 invitations were broken down as follows:

· 133 Express Entry and Labour Impact

· 10 Business Impact

The PEI PNP’s Express Entry Category is linked to the federal Express Entry system and allows the province to nominate Federal Skilled Worker Class, Federal Skilled Trades Class and Canadian Experience Class candidates for permanent residence.

PEI’s Labour Impact category is for foreign nationals with a valid job offer in the province and support from a PEI employer. Candidates in this category may fall under three possible streams: Skilled Worker, Critical Worker and International Graduate. The Labour Impact program is not tied to Express Entry.

The Province also issued 10 invitations to Business Impact candidates with a minimum score of 112 on the program’s points system, under the Work Permit Stream.

Everyone who wants to be considered for a provincial nomination through the Express Entry, Labour Impact and Business Impact categories must first submit an Expressions of Interest (EOI). Eligible candidates in each category are entered into a pool and assigned a score based on the answers provided in their EOI.

An EOI is not an application but rather a way of notifying the PEIPNP that you would like to be considered for a provincial nomination.

The highest-ranked candidates are then invited to apply through monthly draws from each pool.