Maple News reports that three Canadian provinces—Ontario, British Columbia, and Manitoba—have issued invitations to immigration candidates this week through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), a key component of Canada’s immigration strategy.
Under the PNP, provinces and territories (except Quebec and Nunavut) can nominate candidates who are best suited to meet their regional labour market and economic priorities. A provincial nomination significantly strengthens a candidate’s application for permanent residence with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Ontario led activity this week, holding three separate draws under its Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker stream within the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP). The largest draw invited 1,663 candidates working in healthcare and STEM occupations, with a minimum score requirement of 43 points. Another draw focused on skilled trades, welcoming 761 applicants with scores of at least 34. In a smaller, targeted initiative, Ontario also invited 13 candidates under the Economic Mobility Pathways Project (EMPP), a stream designed to help skilled refugees and displaced people immigrate to Canada. This draw did not require a minimum score.
British Columbia continued its weekly invitation rounds, targeting high-demand sectors such as tech, healthcare, and construction. Using its Skills Immigration system, the province invited over 190 candidates this week, with minimum scores ranging from 60 to 116 depending on the category.
Manitoba held a provincial draw through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), issuing 283 invitations across three streams: Skilled Workers in Manitoba, Skilled Workers Overseas, and the International Education Stream. Scores varied according to the stream, with the highest-ranking candidates typically demonstrating strong connections to Manitoba through employment, education, or family.
The number of nominations each province receives is determined by the federal government based on various factors, including local economic needs, the availability of newcomer settlement services, and overall population size.
By selecting candidates most likely to succeed in their local job markets, provinces play a crucial role in supporting Canada’s economic immigration goals. With demand for skilled talent growing across Canadian regions, PNP pathways remain an attractive and strategic option for aspiring newcomers looking to build a future in Canada.