Maple News reports that Prince Edward Island (PEI) has conducted its second-largest immigration draw of 2025 through the Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP), inviting 160 candidates under its Labour Impact and Express Entry streams. The draw, held on October 17, marks the province’s tenth PNP selection round this year.
The invitations were primarily extended to individuals already living and working in PEI, particularly in sectors deemed essential to the province’s economic growth. This round specifically emphasized in-demand skilled occupations and international graduates from local post-secondary institutions.
Priority was given to alumni of three key educational institutions in the province: the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI), Holland College, and Collège de l’Île. This aligns with PEI’s strategic focus on retaining global talent educated within the province to address regional workforce gaps.
With a total of 1,081 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued by PEI in 2025 as of October 26, this draw stands out for its size and selectivity. It falls just behind the year’s most extensive draw by a margin of six invitations, highlighting the province’s commitment to controlled and focused immigration.
PEI continues to operate under increased application pressure and tighter federal-imposed nomination limits. As such, the province is giving preference to individuals whose work aligns with critical labour needs on the Island, reflecting both immediate economic demands and the long-term development strategy laid out in the province’s immigration plans.
According to Maple News, the PEI PNP is exercising cautious resource allocation in the face of reduced nomination spaces nationally. This strategic approach balances the economic priorities of the province while supporting skilled newcomers who are already embedded within its communities and sectors.
By concentrating on candidates with Canadian work or study experience, especially those already contributing to PEI’s labour market, the province aims to enhance retention and long-term integration, crucial factors for a sustainable immigration model in smaller provinces.
Future draws are expected to maintain this trend of targeting in-province workers and recent graduates while also responding dynamically to shifting economic and demographic needs across PEI.