Manitoba Holds A Targeted Immigration Draw For Skilled Workers
Manitoba holds a targeted immigration draw for skilled workers.
On April 17, 2025, Manitoba conducted a new immigration selection round, extending invitations to skilled workers residing outside Canada. The draw focused on individuals eligible under the Skilled Worker Overseas stream of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP).
To qualify for this specific draw, candidates needed to receive a direct invitation from the MPNP through one of its strategic recruitment initiatives. The province issued 27 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to candidates who fulfilled all stream-specific criteria.
Applicants selected in this round were required to meet the following two conditions:
- Achieve a minimum ranking score of 621
- Be directly invited through a strategic recruitment initiative
In addition to overseas applicants, the MPNP also considered candidates who were already licensed in regulated occupations and working in Manitoba. This inclusion demonstrates Manitoba’s intent to address both current and future labour shortages.
Among the 27 individuals invited, three had active Express Entry profiles and valid job seeker validation codes, which may allow for a more streamlined permanent residency process if nominated.
It’s important to note that the term Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) is specific to Manitoba. Other provinces may use different terminology, such as ‘Notification of Interest ‘ or ‘Invitation to Apply’ in their respective nominee programs.
Understanding Manitoba’s Strategic Recruitment Initiatives
Manitoba’s strategic recruitment initiatives aim to connect international skilled workers with employers in the province who face ongoing labour shortages. These programs are designed to help businesses hire qualified candidates who can fill urgent and long-term vacancies.
To participate, employers must first qualify under the program’s standards and complete a formal process called the ABC Recruitment Process. Once approved, they can refer eligible applicants to the MPNP Employer Services for consideration.
Applicants must meet several requirements, including:
- Age: Between 21 and 45 years old (exceptions allowed based on employer need)
- Education: Post-secondary education as required by the employer or position; in some pilot programs, equivalent work-based training may be accepted
- Experience: At least two years of full-time work experience in a relevant occupation within the last five years
- Language proficiency:
- For TEER 0–3 occupations: Minimum CLB 5
- For TEER 4–5 occupations: Minimum CLB 4
- For TEER 0–3 occupations: Minimum CLB 5
Applicants are also evaluated on the MPNP’s assessment grid, and must score at least 60 points to be considered for nomination.
Preference For Candidates Settling Outside Winnipeg
Manitoba holds a targeted immigration draw for skilled workers. The province prioritizes candidates who demonstrate a genuine intention to settle outside the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region. This is part of the province’s broader effort to encourage immigration to rural and underserved areas.
Moreover, applicants with strong connections to other provinces may be flagged as retention risks, which could reduce their chances of receiving a nomination.
If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490, or you can drop us an email at [email protected].
