Manitoba PNP Draw: New Opportunities for International Graduates & Skilled Workers – July 2025 Update

Manitoba continues to lead Canada's provincial immigration efforts by prioritizing candidates with local ties and in-demand skills. In its latest Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) draw, the province issued 67 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs), reinforcing its commitment to retaining talent educated or trained within its borders.

Key Highlights of the July 10, 2025 Draw

On July 10, 2025, Manitoba held two separate draws targeting:

• International Education Stream (IES)

• Skilled Worker Stream (SWS)

These streams aim to support graduates from Manitoba institutions and skilled workers aligned with the province’s labour market needs.

✅ Total Invitations Issued: 67

• International Education Stream (IES): 40 LAAs

• Skilled Worker Stream (SWS): 27 LAAs

• Of these, 29 candidates held valid Express Entry profiles and job seeker validation codes—enhancing their chances for faster permanent residency.

International Education Stream: Supporting Manitoba Graduates

The Graduate Internship Pathway (GIP) under the IES rewarded candidates who:

• Completed a Master’s or PhD program in Manitoba in the last three years

• Completed a Mitacs Accelerate internship with an eligible research or industry partner

• Met a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7

• Submitted a Career Employment Plan that demonstrated long-term value to Manitoba’s workforce

Real-Life Example

Priya, an international student from India, completed her Master's at the University of Manitoba and interned at a Winnipeg-based biotechnology firm through Mitacs. Her proactive approach and research background aligned with Manitoba’s biosciences sector, allowing her to receive a provincial nomination under the GIP.

Skilled Worker Stream: Filling Critical Labour Gaps

Under this stream, 27 skilled workers received LAAs through Manitoba’s Strategic Recruitment Initiatives, which help match foreign talent to local employer needs.

 Breakdown of Invitations

Cut-Off Score: 673

To qualify, candidates had to demonstrate strong employer engagement and meet Manitoba’s criteria, including educational background, work experience, and intent to stay in the province.

Real-Time Scenario

Ousmane, a French-speaking IT professional from Senegal, was recruited under the Francophone Community initiative. He had prior Canadian education and work experience through a Global Talent Stream work permit. His connection to Manitoba and French-language skills led to a successful provincial nomination.

What Are Manitoba’s Strategic Recruitment Initiatives?

These initiatives help employers in Manitoba fill specific labour shortages by nominating international talent. Employers must adhere to the ABC Recruitment Process and ensure job roles meet eligibility standards.

Candidates must also meet strict criteria:

• Valid work experience

• Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score

• Education aligned with the job market

• Ties to Manitoba (not other provinces)

⚠️ Tip: Candidates with stronger ties to other provinces may face refusal due to perceived lack of commitment to Manitoba.

✅ Why This Matters: Real Benefits for Newcomers

Faster PR Pathways

Candidates aligned with Manitoba’s needs often receive quicker processing times and higher chances of permanent residency approval.

Regional Growth

By focusing on rural communities and ethnocultural outreach, Manitoba fosters diverse, inclusive economic development outside major urban centres.

 Graduate Retention

Manitoba is increasingly prioritizing international graduates who have contributed to local research and innovation—enhancing the province’s global competitiveness.

Final Thoughts

If you are an international graduate from Manitoba or a skilled professional exploring PR options in Canada, the Manitoba PNP offers one of the most supportive and targeted immigration pathways in 2025. Whether through education, internships, or community-driven initiatives, aligning your skills with Manitoba’s economic priorities can open doors to permanent settlement.