Maple News reports that the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) has kicked off 2021 with a draw held on January 14, issuing 272 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to candidates across three immigration streams. This marks the first invitation round for the province this year, continuing its efforts to meet local labor market demands through targeted immigration.
Invitations were extended to candidates in the following MPNP pathways: Skilled Workers in Manitoba, Skilled Workers Overseas, and the International Education Stream. The largest share—236 LAAs—was granted to candidates in the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream, who required a minimum Expression of Interest (EOI) score of 461 to qualify. The Skilled Workers Overseas stream saw 7 candidates invited, needing a higher cutoff score of at least 722. The International Education Stream distributed 29 LAAs with no EOI score requirement.
Of the total invitations, 18 went to candidates with active Express Entry profiles. However, the MPNP emphasized that these applicants must have a valid Express Entry ID, a job seeker validation code, and proof of work experience in one of Manitoba’s in-demand occupations. Failure to meet these criteria may lead to disqualification.
Only candidates under the Skilled Workers Overseas stream who received a direct invitation through a strategic recruitment initiative were considered in this draw—a tactic Manitoba uses to address specific workforce needs.
The MPNP clarified potential reasons for eligible candidates not receiving an invitation despite surpassing the minimum score. These include issues such as an outdated or invalid language test, or an invalid or missing strategic invitation number. Affected candidates are encouraged to update their EOI profiles to be reconsidered in future draws.
Additionally, applicants working in regulated occupations were among those invited. Manitoba immigration authorities noted that LAAs could be revoked if candidates are unable to verify that they are currently employed in such occupations or haven’t completed the licensing steps required in Manitoba. In these cases, candidates have the option to decline their invitation.
Manitoba uses the Skilled Workers in Manitoba and Skilled Workers Overseas streams to select candidates who can contribute to the province’s economy. Those applying from abroad must show a genuine connection to the province, whether through family or friends, prior experience, or an invitation via a strategic initiative.
Maple News will continue to monitor and report on Manitoba’s future MPNP draws as provinces play an increasingly active role in shaping Canada’s immigration strategy.