Results of the Year's Largest Draw Released
According to the latest data released by the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP), the province held an immigration draw on November 20. This draw issued 190 invitations through the "Labour & Express Entry" category, setting a record for the highest number of invitations issued in a single draw by the province this year.
Priority Given to Specific Groups and Designated Institution Graduates
The selection criteria for this draw focused on candidates' potential economic contribution to Prince Edward Island. Applicants already employed in Priority Occupations within the province, as well as those possessing French language proficiency, were key targets for invitation.
Notably, candidates currently employed by PEI employers and international students who graduated from the province's Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) were granted priority eligibility. These designated institutions specifically include:
- The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI);
- Holland College;
- Collège de L’îlle.
Looking at the screening trends throughout this year, the PEI PNP has primarily issued invitations through the "Labour & Express Entry" category, with the vast majority of spots going to individuals already working in the province or local international graduates.
Annual Draw Schedule Nears Conclusion
Among Canada's various economic immigration programs, the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program is unique in that it publishes a schedule of anticipated Invitation to Apply (ITA) issuances for the entire year in advance.
The event on November 20 marks the second-to-last draw within the province's scheduled plan for this year. According to the official schedule, the final scheduled draw for 2024 will take place on December 18.
Applicants should note that the province is not strictly bound by the scheduled timetable. For instance, on October 27 of this year, Prince Edward Island held an additional draw outside of the plan. While it remains uncertain whether similar unscheduled draws will occur before the end of the year, this indicates the province's flexibility in adjusting the invitation pace based on actual labour demands.
The Expression of Interest (EOI) Selection Mechanism
The PEI PNP utilizes an "Expression of Interest" (EOI) system to rank candidates, aiming to screen for applicants best suited to support the province's economy and labour market. The system comprehensively evaluates candidate profiles based on the following key factors:
- Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English or French;
- Education: Level of education, field of study, and location of education;
- Skill and Work Experience: The relevance of the applicant's experience to high-demand sectors in the province;
- Strategic Priorities: The degree to which the profile matches PEI's current labour market needs;
- Employment Prospects: Whether the applicant holds a valid Job Offer in PEI and/or possesses local Canadian work experience.
Candidates who achieve high scores in this scoring system and can demonstrate a strong willingness and ability to successfully establish themselves in the province will have a significantly increased chance of receiving a nomination.
