PEI Conducts Second Unexpected Immigration Draw in 2025, Expands Candidate Scope

Prince Edward Island departs from planned draw schedule

Prince Edward Island has conducted its second unplanned provincial immigration draw of 2025, signaling a notable shift in how the province is selecting newcomers toward the end of the year.

The latest selection round was held on December 23, marking a departure from PEI’s published “anticipated Invitation to Apply (ITA)” schedule, which typically limits draws to once per month.

Fewer local ties required in latest selection

In a significant change from recent draws, the province broadened eligibility criteria, extending invitations to candidates with less direct connection to Prince Edward Island.

A total of 13 candidates were invited through the Labour Impact and Express Entry pathways of the PEI Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP). Selection focused exclusively on individuals working in priority occupations and economic sectors expected to deliver measurable benefits to the province.

This contrasts sharply with the previous six draws, which primarily targeted:

• Candidates already employed by PEI-based employers, or
• Recent graduates from select PEI-designated learning institutions

Immigration priorities shift as year-end approaches

The December draw reflects a broader strategy adjustment as provinces attempt to fully utilize their annual nomination quotas.

Throughout 2025, Prince Edward Island has issued nearly all of its invitations through its Labour Impact and Express Entry categories, with only one invitation extended under the Business Work Permit Entrepreneur stream.

Why PEI is holding surprise draws

This marks the second time in 2025 that PEI has gone beyond its scheduled monthly draw framework. The first unexpected draw occurred on October 27.

While the province has not officially stated its reason, provincial nominee programs operate under a strict annual nomination cap set by the federal government. Any unused nomination spaces cannot be carried forward into the next year.

As a result, provinces often increase draw activity toward year-end to ensure full utilization of their allocated nomination spaces.

Provincial allocations shaped by federal immigration targets

Provincial nomination limits are determined annually by the federal government under Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan. These allocations define:

• How many individuals a province can nominate for permanent residence, and
• How many Invitations to Apply can be issued within a calendar year

Not all ITAs result in successful nominations, which is why provinces often issue more invitations than their final nomination quota.

In 2025, all provinces experienced a 50% reduction in nomination allocations. However, 2026 is expected to bring significantly higher provincial immigration landings, offering provinces more flexibility in the year ahead.

For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!