MPNP Skilled Worker Draw #265
Manitoba Conducts New Draw, Prioritises Targeted Recruitment Streams
The province of Manitoba has invited another group of skilled foreign workers to apply for provincial nomination, continuing its focused approach to addressing labour shortages across key sectors. The latest round of invitations was issued through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program, commonly known as the MPNP.
72 Invitations Issued Under Skilled Worker Stream
On February 26, 2026, Manitoba issued a total of 72 Letters of Advice to Apply, often referred to as LAAs. These invitations were distributed under two main pathways:
- Skilled Worker in Manitoba
- Skilled Worker Overseas
More than half of the invitations were issued to candidates connected through the Employer Services initiative, reflecting Manitoba’s emphasis on employer-driven immigration selection.
Breakdown of Invitations by Recruitment Category
- Employer Services: 40 invitations
- Francophone Community: 5 invitations
- Regional Communities: 8 invitations
- Ethnocultural Communities: 12 invitation
- Temporary Public Policy pathway 7 invitations
In addition, 11 of the invited candidates declared a valid profile under the federal Express Entry system, strengthening their pathway toward permanent residence.
Focus on Directly Invited Candidates
Manitoba clarified that this draw was not open to all Expression of Interest profiles in the Skilled Worker Stream. Only individuals who had received a direct invitation through a recognised recruitment initiative or the now-closed Temporary Public Policy were considered.
This targeted model ensures that candidates selected by the province already demonstrate a clear connection to Manitoba’s labour market or community needs. It also reinforces the province’s ability to nominate individuals who are more likely to integrate successfully and remain long-term.
Temporary Public Policy Concludes
However, this policy officially expired on December 31, 2025. Manitoba had previously stopped accepting new support letter applications by mid-December 2025 and closed the online intake form shortly thereafter. As a result, future draws will no longer rely on this temporary mechanism.
What Are Strategic Recruitment Initiatives?
- International recruitment missions
- Employer-led hiring events
- Exploratory visits to Manitoba communities
- Targeted outreach to Francophone and ethnocultural groups
- Regional labour market programs
Common Eligibility Standards for Recruitment-Based Selection
While criteria may vary depending on the specific initiative, Manitoba outlines several general eligibility factors for candidates considered through recruitment missions or exploratory visits:
- Age typically between 21 and 45 years
- At least one year of post-secondary education, such as a diploma or degree
- A minimum of two years of full-time work experience within the last five years
- Valid language test results demonstrating proficiency equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark level 5 or higher
- Demonstrated intent to settle in Manitoba rather than another Canadian province
These requirements help ensure that selected candidates possess the skills, adaptability, and genuine commitment needed to contribute to Manitoba’s economy.
Sharp Decline in Temporary Resident Admissions
In a major policy shift, the federal government has announced plans to substantially reduce the number of temporary resident admissions beginning in 2026:
| Category | 2025 Target | 2026 Target | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Temporary Residents | 673,650 | 385,000 | ↓ 43% |
| International Students | 305,900 | 155,000 | ↓ 49% |
| Temporary Foreign Workers | 367,750 | 230,000 | ↓ 37% |
Skilled Worker – NB Graduates
- Graduation from a PGWP-eligible program at a New Brunswick DLI
- Full-time employment or a job offer from an eligible NB employer
Manitoba Draw Results by Recruitment Category
| Recruitment Category | LAAs Issued |
|---|---|
| Employer Services | 10 |
| Francophone Community | 27 |
| Regional Communities | 5 |
| Temporary Public Policy (TPP) | 21 |
The largest share of invitations went to Francophone candidates and individuals supported under Manitoba’s temporary work permit facilitation policy.
*Want to apply for MPNP? Let the universal adviser guide you through the process.
Manitoba’s Employer-Driven Immigration Strategy
The latest draw underscores Manitoba’s continued shift toward employer-connected immigration. By prioritising candidates who are already linked to local businesses, community groups, or regional development initiatives, the province is strengthening retention rates and reducing employment gaps.
Employer Services, which accounted for the largest share of invitations in this round, plays a central role in this strategy. It allows Manitoba employers facing labour shortages to collaborate directly with the MPNP to identify and support skilled international workers.
What This Means for Immigration Candidates
As Manitoba continues to refine its targeted selection approach, future draws are expected to remain aligned with specific labour and regional priorities rather than broad, open EOI selections. With strategic recruitment now playing a central role in provincial immigration planning, skilled workers with in-demand experience and established Manitoba connections may find stronger opportunities for nomination in 2026 and beyond.
Source: immigratemanitoba.com
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