The province of Manitoba has once again demonstrated its commitment to welcoming skilled international talent with the latest invitation round under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP). This draw, held on May 15, 2025, focused on candidates outside Canada with strong pre-existing ties to the province.
Also Read Global Talent Welcomed in Manitoba’s Latest Immigration Round
Draw Overview: Who Was Invited?
In this latest round, a total of 62 skilled foreign workers were issued Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) for provincial nomination under the Skilled Workers Overseas stream—a pathway that paves the way toward Canadian permanent residency. Among these, eight candidates were also registered in the federal Express Entry system, having submitted valid Express Entry profile numbers and job seeker validation codes.
The minimum score required for selection in this draw was 626 on Manitoba’s internal assessment scale.
However, eligibility wasn’t open to just anyone who applied. Only candidates specifically invited by the MPNP through a strategic recruitment initiative were considered in this round, highlighting Manitoba’s continued emphasis on targeted immigration.
Understanding Manitoba’s Skilled Workers Overseas Stream
The Skilled Workers Overseas stream serves as a dedicated immigration pathway for foreign nationals who live outside Canada but can demonstrate a strong connection to Manitoba. Applicants must also meet a minimum score of 60 points out of 100 on Manitoba’s eligibility assessment grid, which evaluates candidates across five key categories:
- Adaptability
- Age
- Education
- Language proficiency
- Work experience
To be considered under this stream, applicants must prove one or more of the following connections to Manitoba:
- Close family or friends currently residing in the province;
- Previous work or education experience in Manitoba;
- A formal Invitation to Apply through a Strategic Recruitment Initiative by the MPNP.
Each of these connection types has its own set of criteria, and simply expressing interest in the program does not guarantee eligibility.
Strategic Recruitment Initiatives: Filling Labour Market Gaps
Manitoba’s strategic recruitment initiatives are a key component of the MPNP, designed to support provincial employers struggling to fill critical job roles. These initiatives allow the government to identify and invite candidates who possess the qualifications, work experience, and language skills necessary to succeed in the Manitoba labour market.
To participate in these initiatives, employers must:
- Prove that their hiring needs cannot be met locally;
- Follow the ABC Recruitment process, a provincial system that ensures due diligence in international hiring.
Once approved, employers may refer international job seekers who match specific program standards. Eligible candidates must hold a long-term or permanent full-time job offer in Manitoba and clearly express their intention to settle in the province. Interestingly, these initiatives give priority to candidates planning to live outside the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region, helping to promote regional economic growth throughout the province.
What This Means for Aspiring Immigrants
Manitoba’s focused and methodical approach to immigration ensures that newcomers are well-prepared to integrate into the local economy and community. While the competition remains high—evident from the 626 cut-off score in this draw—opportunities exist for individuals who align closely with provincial needs and who have established meaningful ties to the region.
Prospective applicants interested in Manitoba’s Skilled Workers Overseas stream are encouraged to assess their eligibility thoroughly and consider pathways that may connect them to the province, whether through family, work, education, or participation in targeted recruitment programs.
Looking Ahead
As labour shortages persist in key sectors across Manitoba, particularly outside major urban centres, the province is expected to continue leveraging its immigration streams to attract high-quality international talent. Future draws may also reflect evolving labour market demands and regional priorities.
For skilled professionals abroad, Manitoba remains a promising entry point to life in Canada — provided they meet the province’s structured criteria and demonstrate a genuine intent to contribute to its communities.
