Manitoba Expands Selection of Skilled Workers Through New Provincial Nominee Invitations
Manitoba continues to strengthen its labour market strategy by inviting more skilled workers—both within Canada and abroad—to pursue provincial nomination. In its latest selection round, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) focused on applicants identified through highly targeted initiatives designed to address the province’s long-term workforce needs.
This latest draw reflects Manitoba’s growing emphasis on recruiting individuals who have already demonstrated strong ties to the province, either through direct employer engagement, French-language skills, community connections, or special work-permit pathways.
Overview of the Latest Manitoba Skilled Worker Draw
On November 21, the MPNP issued new invitations under its Skilled Worker Stream. All candidates selected in this round had previously been identified through one of the province’s strategic recruitment efforts—programs created to attract workers who meet Manitoba’s labour market priorities.
A total of 35 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) were issued through four targeted initiatives:
Breakdown of Invitations
| Strategic Recruitment Initiative | LAAs Issued |
|---|---|
| Employer Services Initiative | 18 |
| Francophone Community Initiative | 8 |
| Regional Communities Initiative | 8 |
| Temporary Public Policy (TPP) to Support Work Permits for Potential Nominees | 1 |
Five of these candidates confirmed that they held a valid Express Entry profile and job seeker validation code.
Since June, Manitoba has relied heavily on recruitment-based selections, as the province prepares for significant labour market transitions expected in the second half of 2025. This strategy ensures Manitoba can continue matching skilled workers directly to employer and community needs.
Why Some Candidates May Not Receive an Invitation
Even if a candidate meets all MPNP selection criteria, certain application issues may prevent an invitation:
Common Reasons for Delay or Non-selection
- The applicant stated they completed an approved English or French language test but:
- Did not provide a valid test number in their Expression of Interest (EOI), or
- Their test results have expired.
- The applicant reported receiving an invitation under a strategic recruitment initiative but did not include a valid invitation number.
Manitoba emphasizes the importance of accuracy and updated information in the EOI system to avoid unnecessary delays.
Understanding Manitoba’s Strategic Recruitment Pathways
Manitoba uses several specialized programs to identify workers who align with provincial priorities. These pathways are not open for direct application; instead, the province selectively invites individuals based on eligibility, labour market needs, or employer partnerships.
1. Strategic Recruitment Initiatives (SRIs)
SRIs are targeted selection programs used by Manitoba to identify skilled workers who can fill urgent shortages or long-term labour gaps.
Key points:
- Candidates cannot apply directly to SRIs.
- Manitoba identifies eligible individuals through employer engagement, provincial missions, or pre-arranged visits.
- An official Letter of Invitation is provided, which must be uploaded to the MPNP EOI profile.
2. Recruitment Missions (Overseas Hiring Events)
Manitoba regularly conducts recruitment missions abroad, often alongside Manitoba employers searching for international talent.
During these missions:
- Candidates receive job information and immigration guidance.
- Employers assess skills and interview potential workers.
- MPNP officers identify candidates who align with program requirements.
Applicants interested in participating must monitor official announcements and submit their résumés or required forms when applications are open.
3. Exploratory Visits to Manitoba
An exploratory visit is a short, structured trip allowing skilled workers to personally explore life in Manitoba while the province assesses their potential as long-term residents.
Purpose of the Visit
- To help candidates evaluate Manitoba’s lifestyle, job market, and communities.
- To allow immigration officers to conduct an interview and pre-screen applicants.
How It Works
- Candidates request consideration for an exploratory visit.
- If approved, the MPNP issues instructions for arranging the trip.
- During the visit, applicants may meet employers, visit communities, and review settlement options.
- After the interview, Manitoba may issue a formal invitation, which then becomes a recognized “connection to Manitoba” for nomination purposes.
The visit alone does not guarantee an invitation—only the official MPNP-issued invitation does.
