Author: Azadeh Haidari-Garmash, RCIC
Manitoba Prioritizes Talent Retention
Manitoba targets international graduates in latest immigration draw
On This Page You Will Find:
- Details of the Recent Manitoba PNP Draw
- Focus on International Education Stream
- Strategic Recruitment Initiatives in Skilled Worker Stream
- Inclusion of Express Entry Candidates
- Implications for Manitoba's Immigration Strategy
Summary:
The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program recently issued 492 Letters of Advice to Apply during its latest Expression of Interest Draw. The draw emphasized the International Education Stream, aiming to retain international graduates with local connections. Additionally, a small number of invitations were extended through the Skilled Worker Stream under strategic recruitment initiatives. Notably, several candidates were also selected from the federal Express Entry system, underlining Manitoba's continued efforts to attract and retain skilled talent.
In a significant move to bolster its skilled workforce, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) executed its Expression of Interest (EOI) Draw #248 on June 26, 2025. During this draw, the program distributed 492 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs), demonstrating Manitoba's strategic focus on attracting international graduates and skilled workers with ties to the province.
International Education Stream: A Key Focus
The International Education Stream was at the forefront, with a staggering 478 invitations extended. This stream targets candidates who meet specific eligibility criteria, notably those with connections to Manitoba through close relatives. This requirement ensures that candidates have a support system in place, contributing to their successful integration into the community. The emphasis on familial connections underscores the province's commitment to nurturing a supportive environment for newcomers, enhancing their chances of long-term settlement and contribution to the local economy.
Strategic Recruitment in the Skilled Worker Stream
In addition to the international graduates, the draw also invited 14 candidates through the Skilled Worker Stream. These candidates were handpicked as part of strategic recruitment initiatives aimed at addressing specific labor market needs. This included five invitations through Employer Services, five for the Francophone Community, three for Regional Communities, and a single invitation for Ethnocultural Communities. The lowest-ranked candidate in this stream had a score of 712, reflecting the competitive nature of the selection process.
Express Entry Candidates Gain Advantage
Crucially, 65 of the total invitations were issued to candidates with valid Express Entry profile numbers and job seeker validation codes. This inclusion offers these candidates an expedited pathway through the federal immigration process, should they receive provincial nomination. The integration of Express Entry candidates highlights Manitoba’s proactive approach in utilizing federal resources to streamline immigration and enhance the province's appeal to high-caliber skilled workers.
Implications for Manitoba's Immigration Strategy
This draw is indicative of Manitoba's ongoing efforts to align its immigration strategy with the province's economic needs. By prioritizing international graduates and leveraging strategic recruitment initiatives, Manitoba is not only addressing current labor market gaps but also investing in its future workforce. The inclusion of Express Entry candidates further amplifies this strategy, ensuring Manitoba remains a competitive destination for skilled immigrants.
The latest draw not only reinforces Manitoba's reputation as a welcoming and inclusive province but also highlights its strategic approach to building a robust and diverse economy. As Manitoba continues to refine its immigration processes, such initiatives are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the province's demographic and economic landscape.
References
- Manitoba Immigration Overview
- Provincial Nominee Programs
- Canada's Express Entry System
- International Education Stream Details
- Skilled Worker Stream Overview
