Explore the latest 2026 PNP results for New Brunswick (Canada PNP Draws Jan 2026), PEI, and Manitoba. Plus, updated LMIA processing times and New Brunswick’s first-ever Francophone draw
New Year, New Opportunities: Massive PNP Draws and LMIA Updates Across Canada
The third week of January 2026 has brought a wave of invitations for skilled workers and graduates across Canada.
With major provincial draws in New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Manitoba, alongside critical updates to LMIA processing times, the road to Permanent Residence Canada is becoming clearer for those in priority sectors – Canada PNP Draws.
New Brunswick Makes History with Francophone-First Draw – Canada PNP Draws Jan 2026
Between January 13 and 15, 2026, New Brunswick (NBPNP) conducted three significant draws, issuing a total of 379 Invitations to Apply (ITAs). Most notably, the province launched its first-ever Strategic Initiative – Francophone Priorities pathway draw.
Draw Highlights:
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NB Strategic Initiative (Francophone): 115 invitations (Historical first).
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NB Skilled Worker (Graduates & Experience): 244 invitations.
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NB Express Entry (Employment in NB): 20 invitations.
This move reinforces Canada’s commitment to supporting Francophone minority communities and provides a golden opportunity for French-speaking Skilled Workers to settle in the Atlantic region.
Prince Edward Island Targets Priority Sectors
On January 15, 2026, Prince Edward Island held its first PEI PNP draw of the year, issuing 26 invitations. The province focused on individuals already contributing to the local economy through “Priority Sectors.”
Selection Priorities:
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Candidates with active employment offers from PEI-based organizations.
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International graduates from local institutions like UPEI, Holland College, and Collège de l’Île.
If you missed this round, mark your calendar: the next scheduled draw is February 19, 2026.
Manitoba’s Strategic Move: Draw #262
Manitoba also kicked off its 2026 invitations with Draw #262 on January 15. The province invited 55 candidates under the Skilled Worker in Manitoba and Skilled Workers Overseas streams.
Interestingly, the province is utilizing “Strategic Recruitment Initiatives” to target specific labor needs, with 10 invitations specifically going to candidates already in the federal Express Entry pool. This follows a highly active 2025 where the Manitoba PNP invited over 7,700 candidates.
ESDC Updates: Shifts in LMIA Processing Times
For employers and workers relying on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, ESDC has updated its average processing times as of January 15, 2026. While some streams remain stable, the Permanent Residence and High-wage streams have seen slight increases.
| LMIA Stream | Processing Time (Jan 2026) | Change |
| Global Talent Stream | 10 Business Days | Stable |
| Agricultural Stream | 15 Business Days | +1 Day |
| High-wage Stream | 50 Business Days | +4 Days |
| Low-wage Stream | 44 Business Days | Stable |
| Permanent Residence Stream | 274 Business Days | +8 Days |
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Our Core Services:
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Permanent Residence Canada: Expert guidance on PNP and Express Entry pathways.
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Study Permits: Supporting graduates from PEI and NB institutions.
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Free Immigration Assessment: Start your journey with a professional profile evaluation.
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Contact Our Experts: Personalized legal advice for LMIAs and work permits.
Essential Resources:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Canada PNP Draws Jan 2026
1. What is the New Brunswick Francophone Priorities pathway?
It is a new strategic initiative within the NBPNP designed to invite French-speaking skilled workers to support the province’s linguistic diversity.
2. How many people were invited in the first PEI PNP draw of 2026 (Canada PNP Draws)?
PEI issued 26 invitations to candidates in priority sectors and international graduates on January 15, 2026.
3. Has LMIA processing time for Permanent Residence increased?
Yes, as of January 15, the average processing time for the PR-supported LMIA stream has increased to 274 business days.
4. How many candidates did Manitoba invite in Draw #262?
Manitoba invited 55 skilled workers under strategic recruitment initiatives for both in-province and overseas candidates.
5. Which international graduates are prioritized in Prince Edward Island?
Graduates from recognized PEI institutions, including UPEI, Holland College, and Collège de l’Île, are given priority.
6. What is the fastest LMIA stream right now?
The Global Talent Stream remains the fastest, with an average processing time of just 10 business days.
7. How can I improve my chances for a New Brunswick nomination?
Focusing on Francophone eligibility or having a valid job offer in a high-demand sector significantly boosts your chances under the latest NBPNP criteria.
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