On August 31, 2023, Manitoba announced critical modifications to its Provincial Nominee Program for skilled workers. Effective as of late February 2023, the province initiated a process of segmenting the immigration program targeted toward skilled laborers currently employed within Manitoba, allocating invitations to specific sectors or occupations. In the most recent round of invitations, the province added geographical restrictions, extending invitations solely to candidates intending to reside outside the Winnipeg metropolitan area.

Program Overview

This program is tailored for applicants working under valid work permits who have received job offers in occupations classified under NOC levels 0 to 5, on a permanent, full-time basis. Employment experience requirements depend on the specific sector and educational qualifications within Manitoba, generally ranging from 6 to 12 months. Language proficiency is also a requirement, typically ranging from CLB levels 4 to 7, depending on the NOC level. It is a points-based program, and only high-scoring candidates will receive invitations.

Trends and Implications

The emerging trend could lead to a substantial number of permanent resident allocations being allocated to specific geographical locations, job occupations, or potentially both. While STEM sectors may not necessarily hold an advantage in Manitoba, positions in culinary arts, transportation, business administration, and manufacturing continue to be valued. While these modifications do not currently affect international students who have graduated in Manitoba, they may impact students from other provinces who are seeking post-graduation employment opportunities in Manitoba.

Moreover, the alterations in Manitoba’s skilled labor immigration program may be advantageous for candidates restricted by restrictive considerations. The points required may be lower for occupations with restrictions and higher for general occupations. This means that candidates in general occupations would need to score higher in factors such as age, language proficiency, work experience, and educational qualifications.

If you are an international student studying in Manitoba, there may be cause for concern if the province continues to impose new geographical and job-specific restrictions. In provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, provincial nomination streams for international students are already confined to specific job positions, although Manitoba’s stream is comparatively more flexible, barring educational prerequisites. Seeking employment outside the Winnipeg area may be a viable strategy for upcoming graduates to mitigate irreversible risks.

These alterations in Manitoba’s skilled labor immigration program are part of a broader provincial and federal trend aimed at facilitating selective immigration and will affect candidates seeking resettlement opportunities in Manitoba.

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