Maple News reports that Manitoba has conducted its largest Skilled Worker draw of the year, inviting a total of 367 immigration candidates to apply for a provincial nomination through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). The draw, held on April 27, targeted skilled professionals and recent graduates with strong ties to the province’s labour market.
A significant portion of the invitations—301 in total—were issued under the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream, requiring a minimum Expression of Interest (EOI) score of 440. These candidates include temporary foreign workers and international graduates who already hold job offers in skilled occupations within Manitoba.
The province also selected candidates through two additional streams: the International Education Stream, which issued 55 invitations with no EOI score requirement, and the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, which extended 11 invitations to candidates scoring a minimum of 721 points. In total, 34 of the invitations went to candidates registered in the federal Express Entry system.
This latest draw highlights Manitoba’s continued efforts to attract and retain skilled talent crucial to its economic development. Through the MPNP, the provincial government nominates candidates whose skills align with regional labour demands. While provincial nominations do not grant permanent residency directly, they significantly enhance an applicant’s chances of being selected at the federal level.
To become eligible for consideration, candidates must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the MPNP. This system ranks applicants out of 1,000 points based on various human capital criteria, including work experience, education, language proficiency, and ties to Manitoba.
The Skilled Workers in Manitoba and Skilled Workers Overseas streams are tailored to help the province meet its economic needs. Candidates applying from abroad must demonstrate a strong connection to Manitoba—whether through family ties, past work or education in the province, or a formal invitation via Manitoba’s Strategic Recruitment Initiatives. Notably, residency in Manitoba at the time of application is not mandatory.
According to Maple News, Manitoba continues to be an attractive destination for skilled workers seeking a stable future in Canada. With a proactive immigration system and a growing need for skilled labour, the province is well-positioned to welcome new talent in 2024 and beyond.