Maple News reports that three Canadian provinces—Ontario, British Columbia, and Manitoba—issued invitations this week to immigration candidates through their respective Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These latest draws reflect the ongoing efforts by provinces to attract skilled individuals who can meet local labor market demands and contribute to economic growth.
Canada’s PNPs allow provinces and territories (except Quebec and Nunavut) to select and nominate immigrants based on the specific needs of their local workforce. Candidates who receive provincial nominations gain a significant advantage when applying to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residency.
In Ontario, the province held three separate draws under the Employer Job Offer: International Student stream of the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) on March 12. A general draw invited 1,306 candidates with a minimum score of 72, while a second draw targeted skilled trades occupations, issuing 649 invitations to candidates with scores of at least 66.
British Columbia also conducted a round of invitations through the BC Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP), issuing invitations in general and targeted draws. Though the specific invitation numbers for this week weren’t disclosed in this brief, BC typically invites candidates in key sectors such as tech, healthcare, childcare, and other critical occupations.
Meanwhile, Manitoba issued invitations through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). The province typically invites candidates under three streams: Skilled Workers in Manitoba, Skilled Workers Overseas, and the International Education Stream. These draws prioritize applicants who demonstrate strong ties to the province, relevant work experience, and strong human capital factors.
To be considered under any provincial nomination stream, candidates must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the province. Applicants are then ranked based on criteria determined by the province—often including work experience, education, language proficiency, and regional ties. These provincial scoring systems are distinct from the federal Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) used in Express Entry but serve a similar purpose in assessing candidate potential.
Candidates who receive a provincial nomination earn an additional 600 points in the Express Entry system, virtually guaranteeing them an invitation to apply for permanent residency in subsequent federal draws.
These latest PNP draws demonstrate the ongoing importance of provincial immigration pathways in Canada’s broader immigration strategy. By prioritizing local labor shortages and welcoming newcomers to specific regions, PNPs help ensure sustainable population growth and economic resilience across the country.