Maple News reports that on August 21, Prince Edward Island (PEI) held its eighth Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw of 2025, issuing 132 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates under the Labour Impact and PEI Express Entry categories.
This draw focused primarily on foreign nationals already residing and working in the province, especially those filling roles in high-demand sectors. Candidates in healthcare, trades, and manufacturing—industries identified earlier this year as critical to the province’s economy—were given priority.
In addition, the province specifically targeted international graduates from recognized local institutions such as the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI), Holland College, and Collège de l’Île. This focus marks the third time in 2025 that PEI has prioritized graduates from these post-secondary schools.
Of the 792 total invitations issued by the PEI PNP so far this year, 791 have been distributed through the Labour Impact and Express Entry streams. Only one invitation was issued via the separate Work Permit Stream. This strategic approach aligns with the province’s goal of retaining talent already integrated into the local workforce and helping address persistent labor shortages.
PEI’s PNP is designed to attract skilled workers, international graduates, and business-minded individuals who wish to settle in the province. It operates three main streams: Labour Impact, Express Entry, and Business Impact. The Labour Impact and Express Entry categories are the most active, typically targeting individuals who are already contributing to the province through employment or education.
According to Maple News, these draws underscore PEI’s commitment to filling its workforce gaps with talent that is already contributing to community and economic development. By aligning immigration closely with real-time labor market needs, the province is seeking to build and retain a sustainable population of skilled residents.
PEI continues to be a popular destination for newcomers due to its welcoming communities, growing industries, and post-secondary opportunities. As labor market demands evolve, more targeted draws are expected to follow throughout the year.