In recent months, both Manitoba and Alberta have actively issued invitations through their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) to attract skilled workers to bolster their local economies. This article delves into the specifics of these invitations, focusing on the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program 2025 and the Alberta PNP invitations, providing insights for prospective applicants.
Manitoba’s Recent Invitations: A Closer Look
Skilled Worker Overseas Stream
On April 3, 2025, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) conducted a draw under its Skilled Worker Overseas stream. This draw targeted candidates directly invited by the MPNP through a strategic recruitment initiative. Four Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) were issued, with the lowest-ranked candidate having a score of 721. Notably, none of these candidates declared a valid Express Entry profile number or job seeker validation code.
Strategic Recruitment Initiatives
Manitoba’s strategic recruitment initiatives are designed to address immediate labor shortages by recruiting skilled international workers. Employers demonstrating an ongoing need for qualified workers can participate in these initiatives. Candidates referred through this process must meet specific criteria, including:
- Being aged between 21–45 years old.
- Having completed post-secondary education, if required by the occupation or employer.
- Possessing at least two years of full-time work experience within the past five years.
- Achieving a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 5 in all skill areas for candidates in TEER 0–3 occupations.
Eligibility Criteria for Skilled Worker Overseas Stream
To be eligible for the Skilled Worker Overseas stream, applicants must demonstrate a connectiontor to the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program 2025 through:
- Support of family members or friends (Manitoba Support).
- Previous education or work experience in the province (Manitoba Experience).
- An Invitation to apply was received directly from the MPNP as part of a Strategic Recruitment Initiative (Manitoba Invitation).
Additionally, applicants must score at least 60 points based on factors such as language proficiency, age, work experience, education, and adaptability.
Alberta’s Recent Invitations: Key Highlights
Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
Alberta has been proactive in issuing invitations through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP). In February 2025, the province conducted multiple draws, inviting a total of 551 candidates to apply for permanent residency. The minimum scores required for these draws ranged from 45 to 68, depending on the specific stream and pathway.
Dedicated Health Care Pathway
On February 6, 2025, Alberta focused on the Dedicated Health Care Pathway for non-Express Entry candidates. The program focused on inviting 48 individuals with a minimum score of 50. This initiative underscores Alberta’s commitment to strengthening its healthcare system by attracting qualified professionals.
Express Entry Stream
The Alberta Express Entry Stream allows the province to nominate individuals who already have a profile in the federal Express Entry system. Candidates who have demonstrated ties to Alberta and have the necessary skills to contribute to the province’s economic growth may be invited to apply.
Implications for Prospective Applicants
The recent draws in both Manitoba and Alberta highlight the provinces’ targeted approaches to addressing specific labor market needs. For prospective applicants, understanding the nuances of each program is crucial:
- Manitoba: The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program 2025 emphasizes connections to the province, whether through family, education, work experience, or strategic recruitment initiatives. Demonstrating such ties can enhance eligibility.
- Alberta: Focuses on candidates with skills that align with the province’s economic priorities, such as healthcare and technology. Having an active Express Entry profile and ties to Alberta can be advantageous.
Conclusion
Staying informed about the latest PNP invitations and understanding the specific criteria of each province can significantly enhance the chances of a successful application. Both Manitoba and Alberta continue to seek skilled individuals who can contribute to their economies, offering promising pathways for prospective immigrants.
