Maple News reports that the provinces of Manitoba and Prince Edward Island (PEI) have recently conducted new draws under their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), offering pathways to permanent residency for select skilled workers, international graduates, and individuals with strong ties to the provinces.
Between February 14 and 21, Manitoba issued a total of 41 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs). The province conducted draws under two separate streams through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): the International Education Stream and the Skilled Workers Overseas Stream.
Nineteen candidates were invited under the International Education Stream, with eligibility focused on candidates holding a master’s degree or higher. Additionally, applicants needed to have a Manitoba supporter—a close relative who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and has lived in the province for at least one year.
The Skilled Workers Overseas Stream issued 22 invitations to candidates who had received a direct invitation under Manitoba’s strategic recruitment initiatives. The minimum score required to receive an invitation in this draw was 711. Notably, seven candidates among the total 41 had active Express Entry profiles, enhancing their chances of eventual permanent residency.
Meanwhile, Prince Edward Island held its second PNP draw of 2025 this week. The province targeted international student graduates from local universities and colleges, as well as individuals already residing and working in PEI. The goal is to support regional economic development and fill labour market gaps with candidates who are already familiar with the community and local needs.
Through their PNPs, both provinces are emphasizing retention by prioritizing candidates educated in Canada or those who have pre-existing ties to the community. These efforts align with broader national strategies to ensure that newcomers successfully integrate and settle in less populated regions of Canada.
These latest rounds of invitations highlight the growing importance of provincial pathways in the Canadian immigration landscape, offering additional opportunities for candidates beyond the federal Express Entry system.
For prospective immigrants, staying updated with provincial draws and eligibility enhancements—such as education qualifications and provincial support requirements—is becoming increasingly vital to building a successful immigration strategy.