Manitoba invites more skilled workers in latest PNP draw

Manitoba continues to make strides in welcoming skilled workers to the province. This week, the Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) hosted another immigration draw, aiming to invite skilled workers from outside Canada. The draw took place on May 1, 2025, and was part of Manitoba’s regular initiative to attract international talent.

What Happened in This Draw?

In the recent MPNP draw, 26 skilled workers received Letters of Advice to Apply (LAA). These candidates were invited through the Skilled Worker Overseas stream. To be eligible for this draw, candidates had to meet specific requirements set by Manitoba. They also needed to score a minimum of 727 points based on the points system.

Out of the 26 invited, 7 candidates already had a valid Express Entry profile and job seeker validation code. This is important because it shows they are already in the Express Entry pool, which is a system used to manage immigration applications for several federal programs.

What Is a Strategic Recruitment Initiative?

The concept of a “strategic recruitment initiative” is an important part of this process. Manitoba’s initiative helps employers find skilled workers from outside the country. Employers in the province who face challenges in hiring workers can use this program to recruit foreign talent.

To be part of this initiative, employers must meet certain criteria set by Manitoba. After they meet these conditions, they can submit details of international candidates to the Manitoba Employer Services. This process helps ensure that candidates are well-matched to the needs of local businesses.

Who Is Eligible?

Candidates who wish to be considered under this program must meet various criteria. First, they need to have a connection to Manitoba. This connection could be through family, friends, prior education, or work experience in the province. Additionally, candidates must meet certain minimum standards in language proficiency, work experience, education, and age.

The province gives preference to skilled workers who are willing to work outside the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region. This helps ensure that skilled workers are distributed across the entire province to address local labor market needs.

Manitoba’s Skilled Worker Overseas Stream

The Skilled Worker Overseas stream is designed for foreign workers who have a strong connection to Manitoba. This connection can be through family or friends living in the province, prior education or work experience in Manitoba, or an invitation through the strategic recruitment initiative.

To apply under this stream, candidates must also score at least 60 points. The points are calculated based on factors such as language skills, age, education, work experience, and adaptability to life in Manitoba.

The Manitoba PNP draw this week highlights the province’s continued efforts to bring skilled workers to Manitoba. With the province focusing on attracting talent outside the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region, the Skilled Worker Overseas stream remains a key pathway for foreign workers to build a new life in Manitoba.