First PNP draws in January 2026: find out the dates and available spots for residency in Canada

If you are seeking permanent residence in Canada in 2026, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) may be good alternatives as long as your immigration profile is in line with the needs and requirements of the region.

In this blog, I will tell you how the first PNP draws took place in January and what the key guideline is for reviewing your plan and adapting your profile to the needs of your province.

Read with me until the end and take note of the raffles in different provinces and the expected quota projections for this year.

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PNP: dates and quotas available in 2026

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Quotas for French speakers outside Quebec increase

On January 19, 2026, the federal government announced 5,000 more spots available for permanent residency.

The objective of this increase is to support the French-speaking communities in order to maintain the cultural identity of this language and contribute to economic growth in terms of employment and entrepreneurship. 

This step is favorable for the provinces, as they can use the French-speaking Express Entry category and mobility permit to fill the most urgent positions more quickly.

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Prince Edward Island: Labor Impact and Express Entry categories

On January 7, Prince Edward Island (PEI) published its official schedule of 12 monthly draws for the PNP. In addition, on January 15, it launched its first draw with 26 invitations (ITAs) specifically targeting the Labor Impact and Express Entry categories. 

PEI is giving priority to international graduates from institutions in the province, such as UPEI, Holland College, etc. Workers with experience in health, manufacturing, and trade are also given priority.

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New Brunswick: reactivates its strategic Francophone current

Between January 13 and 15, New Brunswick launched its first round with the issuance of 379 invitations and reactivated the Strategic Initiative Stream with 115 ITAs for French-speaking candidates. 

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It also benefited 244 skilled workers with local experience and 20 professionals under Express Entry.

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Manitoba: a start focused on direct recruitment

Manitoba held its first draw of the year on January 15 (EOI #262), issuing 55 letters of recommendation (LAA) through its skilled worker streams. This round focused on candidates who were invited directly under Strategic Recruitment Initiatives. 

This is a direct selection model where Manitoba invites candidates identified through overseas recruitment missions, approved exploratory visits, or specific agreements with local employers. 

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British Columbia: Under the Current Entrepreneur Base Draw

On January 13, 2026, British Columbia launched its first draw of the year under the current Entrepreneur Stream, with 7 invitations and a minimum score of 115. 

This program seeks to attract individuals with a solid net worth of at least CAD 600,000 who wish to invest in urban centers.

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Yukon: opening of quotas for sectors with high demand

On January 19, Yukon began its first intake period for the Nominee Program, focusing on healthcare professionals, French speakers, and graduates within the province. 

Yukon has a total quota of 282 admissions for 2026 and is encouraging those with ties to rural areas by awarding additional points to candidates who demonstrate a genuine connection and ability to remain in the territory. 

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Alberta: Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) 2026

By 2026, Alberta has the capacity to attract 6,403 talents for nomination, allocating 53% of its quotas to the Alberta Opportunity Stream and giving priority to workers in the health, technology, construction, manufacturing, aviation, and agriculture sectors, in addition to strengthening the Rural Renewal Program.

The main focus remains on candidates with job offers to boost the provincial economy in the aforementioned sectors.

Note: At the federal level, there are 10,000 spots available outside of Alberta's fixed quota, which are exclusively for licensed physicians and qualified French-speaking candidates. This is a great opportunity for those who fit these profiles.

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Final recommendations

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To be successful in immigrating in 2026, the most important thing is to keep your Express Entry profile and provincial Expressions of Interest (EOI) up to date, especially if you are fluent in French or have experience in healthcare and construction. 

At Immiland Canada, we have a team of regulated consultants ready to evaluate your profile on a personalized basis and design a plan that suits the provinces of your choice.

For more information about our services, visit immilandcanada.com and request a free assessment or schedule a consultation to take the first step toward permanent residency. 

Thank you for reading. Don't miss our next topic on: How to maximize your CRS score in 2026.

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With love, 

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Immiland Canada