Maple News reports that Manitoba has launched its first immigration draw of 2026 under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), issuing 55 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to candidates through its Skilled Worker Stream. Conducted on January 15, Expression of Interest (EOI) Draw #262 specifically targeted candidates invited under the province’s strategic recruitment initiatives.
Unlike regular draws that rely on EOI scores, this round prioritized applicants with established connections to Manitoba, including those recruited through employer partnerships, community outreach, and ethnocultural and francophone support programs. This targeted approach reflects Manitoba’s continued commitment to addressing regional labour market needs and bolstering community-driven immigration pathways.
According to the MPNP, the 55 LAAs were distributed across several key strategic recruitment categories:
– Employer Services: 21 invitations
– Regional Communities: 15 invitations
– Ethnocultural Communities: 9 invitations
– Francophone Community: 7 invitations
An additional 3 invitations were issued under a Temporary Public Policy (TPP) that facilitates work permit access for potential PNP nominees still waiting for nomination.
Of the total invited candidates, 10 held valid Express Entry profile numbers and job seeker validation codes, positioning them to potentially receive an enhanced provincial nomination. A nomination from Manitoba would add 600 points to their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, virtually guaranteeing an invitation to apply for permanent residence under a future federal Express Entry draw.
The MPNP emphasized that only candidates who correctly entered a valid invitation number received consideration in Draw #262. Common issues disqualifying applicants included expired language tests, missing test details, or incorrectly entered invitation numbers. In addition, applicants in regulated occupations must show evidence of required licensing in Manitoba, or risk having their applications rejected.
Manitoba’s strategic use of recruitment draws underlines the province’s intent to attract skilled talent aligned with its workforce priorities and growing communities. Maple News will continue to monitor upcoming draws and policy changes impacting provincial immigration.