Maple News reports that the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) held an unexpected draw on May 27, issuing invitations to 404 Express Entry candidates — a rare move for the province.
The candidates invited in this round are likely eligible for Manitoba’s Skilled Workers Overseas stream, one of several under the MPNP. To receive an invitation, candidates needed a minimum Expression of Interest (EOI) score of 601, based on Manitoba’s unique points-based system. Unlike Canada’s federal Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), the Manitoba EOI score is calculated according to its own criteria, including factors such as work experience, language proficiency, and adaptability.
This draw stands out due to the high number of invitations issued specifically to Express Entry candidates. Typically, Manitoba focuses more on international graduates and skilled workers already residing in the province. Most draws distribute invitations across its various streams, including the Skilled Workers in Manitoba and International Education streams.
All 404 invitees had existing Express Entry profiles. If they now obtain a provincial nomination from Manitoba, they will receive an additional 600 points toward their CRS score. This bonus will almost certainly position them to receive an invitation to apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residence in a future Express Entry draw.
Express Entry is the federal system that manages permanent residence applications under Canada’s primary economic immigration programs — the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Applicants who submit an Express Entry profile are assessed and ranked using the CRS, which accounts for various human capital factors.
While candidates can apply to Express Entry independently, receiving support from a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) like Manitoba’s significantly boosts their chances of receiving an ITA from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The pathway through a province is especially beneficial for candidates with moderate CRS scores that may not secure federal invitations on their own.
Submitting an Express Entry profile is a required first step for those aiming to receive a nomination from MPNP through the Skilled Workers Overseas stream. Once in the pool, the province can issue invitations to those best matching its labour market needs and integration potential.
This latest draw highlights Manitoba’s continued role in supporting Canadian immigration objectives while attracting skilled talent aligned with the province’s economic requirements.