Maple News reports that Manitoba has conducted its second Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw in just two weeks, issuing 196 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) for permanent residence on November 19. This move underlines the province’s ongoing commitment to attracting skilled immigrants and international graduates to strengthen Manitoba’s labor force.
The invitations were issued under three streams of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): Skilled Workers in Manitoba, Skilled Workers Overseas, and the International Education Stream.
Here’s how the breakdown of invitations looks:
– Skilled Workers in Manitoba: 144 LAAs with a minimum Expression of Interest (EOI) score of 526,
– Skilled Workers Overseas: 22 LAAs with a minimum EOI score of 769,
– International Education Stream: 30 LAAs issued with no minimum score requirement.
A notable increase was observed among Express Entry candidates, with 40 out of the 196 invitations going to those in the federal Express Entry pool—significantly higher than the 7 issued in the previous round. However, the MPNP emphasized that applicants must have a valid Express Entry ID, a job seeker validation code, and relevant experience in an occupation listed on Manitoba’s In-demand Occupations list. Otherwise, their applications risk being declined.
Skilled Worker Overseas candidates were considered in this draw only if they were identified through Manitoba’s strategic recruitment initiatives. This targeted approach helps the province address specific labor market gaps and ensure long-term workforce retention.
Candidates who met or exceeded the minimum EOI scoring thresholds but were not invited may have had errors in their application, such as invalid or expired language test results, or missing invitation numbers for those under strategic recruitment. These individuals are encouraged to update their EOI profiles to remain eligible for future draws.
Moreover, invitations were also extended to individuals employed in regulated occupations. The MPNP warned that candidates unable to prove licensing or who are not genuinely working in the field may be refused, and have the option to decline the LAA if requirements can’t be met.
With this draw, Manitoba has now issued a total of 4,469 LAAs in 2020 through its PNP streams. The province remains a promising destination for skilled professionals and graduates seeking a pathway to Canadian permanent residency.