Manitoba PNP Draw 2025: Skilled Workers Overseas Invited

Manitoba Invites Skilled Workers Overseas in Latest MPNP Draw: What You Need to Know

Manitoba continues to open its doors to global talent. In a recent draw held by the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), the province extended invitations to skilled workers living outside of Canada — offering them a chance to apply for provincial nomination and pursue permanent residency. If you’re aiming to immigrate to Canada through a provincial stream, this update could be a valuable stepping stone.

Key Highlights

• 30 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) issued under the Skilled Worker Overseas stream
• Minimum score required: 606 under MPNP’s points-based system
• Strategic recruitment initiative participation was essential for eligibility
• 5 candidates invited had active Express Entry profiles
• MPNP has issued 1,840 nominations so far in 2025 out of a 4,750 cap
• Reduced allocations this year may limit future nomination rounds

Inside the May 29 MPNP Draw

On May 29, 2025, the Government of Manitoba conducted a targeted draw under its Skilled Worker Overseas stream. A total of 30 skilled foreign workers received Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs), allowing them to submit applications for a provincial nomination.

To be eligible in this round, candidates had to meet two specific criteria:

• Score at least 606 points on the MPNP’s unique points grid
• Receive a special invitation to submit a candidate profile via a strategic recruitment initiative

Interestingly, five of the invited candidates also had active profiles in Canada’s Express Entry system and a valid job seeker validation code. This extra qualification often helps boost a candidate’s profile when being considered by provincial programs.

Why Some Eligible Candidates May Not Have Been Invited

Even if a candidate met or exceeded the score cut-off, they might not have received an LAA due to missing or invalid information. The MPNP highlighted two common issues:

• Not providing a valid language test number, or submitting expired language results
• Failing to include a valid invitation number for the strategic recruitment initiative in their Expression of Interest (EOI)

It’s a good reminder to double-check your documentation and ensure everything is accurate and up-to-date in your EOI profile.

What Are Strategic Recruitment Initiatives?

Strategic recruitment initiatives are employer-driven efforts designed to address labour shortages in Manitoba. These initiatives allow the province to invite specific foreign workers who have essential skills that local employers need urgently. If you’re selected through one of these initiatives, it significantly improves your chances of receiving a provincial nomination — and ultimately, permanent residence in Canada.

These initiatives are also a win-win. Manitoba benefits by filling gaps in its workforce, and skilled workers from abroad get a direct pathway to establish themselves in the province. If you’re interested in being considered for a future initiative, it’s worth researching employer partnerships and staying connected with MPNP updates.

MPNP’s 2025 Nomination Cap: What It Means for Applicants

This year, the MPNP — like other provincial nominee programs across Canada — is dealing with tighter restrictions. Due to changes implemented by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Manitoba’s annual nomination allocation has been cut in half compared to previous years.

In 2025, the province has been allocated just 4,750 nomination spots. As of now, 1,840 of those have already been issued, leaving roughly 2,910 remaining for the rest of the year. That means competition will be stiffer, and each nomination round will likely see a smaller number of invitations issued.

However, it’s not all bad news. Some provinces — like Newfoundland and Labrador — have successfully negotiated with the federal government to increase their allocations. Should Manitoba follow suit, there’s a chance for additional nomination spots to be added later in the year.

What This Means for Aspiring Immigrants

If you’re a skilled worker considering your options for immigration to Canada, Manitoba remains an attractive choice — especially if your profile aligns with the province’s current labour needs. While the reduced caps pose a challenge, staying proactive and ensuring your profile is as strong and complete as possible will help you make the most of upcoming opportunities.

Keep an eye on strategic recruitment initiatives, maintain a valid language test, and ensure your Express Entry profile (if applicable) is active and current. These small details can make a big difference when it comes to receiving an invitation.

Final Thoughts

Manitoba’s ongoing efforts to bring in skilled international talent through the Provincial Nominee Program show the province’s commitment to economic growth and workforce development. While this year’s reduced nomination cap adds a layer of complexity, smart applicants who stay informed and prepared can still find success.

Thinking of applying through a PNP stream? Take the next step and assess your eligibility today. It’s a quick and easy way to see where you stand — and to get expert guidance on improving your chances.

Want to learn more about immigration pathways to Canada? Be sure to check out our full guide on how to immigrate through a Provincial Nominee Program for tips and step-by-step instructions.