On January 7, 2026, the Government of Prince Edward Island published its anticipated 2026 provincial nomination draw schedule on its official immigration website. According to the announcement, the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) plans to conduct 12 EOI-based draws throughout 2026, typically around the middle of each month. Publicly posting a year-long draw schedule is uncommon across Canadian provinces and territories and is viewed as a step toward greater transparency.

PEI’s planned draw dates for 2026

Based on information released by the province, the tentative draw dates are as follows:

PEI noted that the schedule is provided for “general informational purposes only” and does not guarantee that selection rounds will occur on each listed date. The province may hold a draw earlier or later than posted, and it may occasionally conduct more than one draw in a month—an approach it used in 2025.

EOI validity period: shorter than most provinces

PEI also reminded prospective applicants that an EOI profile remains active in the province’s system for six months from the date it is submitted. This differs from many other provinces, where EOI profiles commonly remain valid for up to one year.

As a result, candidates are advised to keep their profiles current at all times. If an EOI expires, applicants will need to submit a new profile to remain eligible for consideration. PEI further recommends submitting an EOI as soon as candidates meet the requirements of their chosen stream.

Invitations and targeting will vary by draw

The number of invitations issued—and the types of candidates targeted—may differ from draw to draw. PEI stated that selections and ITA issuances will depend on the province’s 2026 nomination allocation, labour market needs, and priority sectors and occupations. As of now, PEI has not yet released its priority sectors for 2026.

Looking back: PEI PNP draws and invitations in 2025

In 2025, PEI conducted 14 draws, even though its anticipated schedule listed only 11. The increase was largely due to three “surprise draws” held outside the posted dates (in January, October, and December). Of the 11 scheduled draws, PEI adhered to the listed dates for eight.

Across all 2025 draws, PEI issued a total of 1,609 ITAs. All but one were issued through the Labour Impact and PEI Express Entry categories, with invitations primarily going to candidates working in priority sectors and occupations, as well as international graduates from select designated learning institutions (DLIs). Only one invitation was issued under the Business Impact Category, through the Work Permit Stream.

In 2025, PEI’s priority sectors included healthcare, skilled trades, and manufacturing. The province has not yet announced which sectors will be prioritized in 2026.