All You Need to Know About the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program or Manitoba PNP is a highly-coveted immigration program for skilled workers seeking permanent resident status. The central Canadian province of Manitoba is well-known for its lush natural resources, strong economy, and low cost of living. Its abundance of agricultural and industrial activities necessitates a qualified and competent workforce. With Manitoba PNP, keen applicants get a fast pathway to work and settle in Manitoba, and contribute to its economy.

Applying for Manitoba PNP

• Since this Manitoba immigration program is driven by the requirements of Manitoba-based employers, the eligibility criteria follow suit.

• The first step to apply is by submitting an Expression of Interest. This submission is not counted as an application. Rather, it is used to create your online profile as an eligible candidate. Thereon it is stored in the Manitoba PNP database for 1 year.

• Your Expression of Interest is ranked based on your age, language proficiency, education, work experience, adaptability, and risk assessment.

• Based on the requirements of the Manitoba jobs market, economy, and community, your profile and rank is assessed.

• If shortlisted, you are intimated to submit a formal MPNP application.

• Once your application is approved, you are required to make a final application. This has to be directed to the Government of Canada, for granting you Permanent Resident Status.

Eligibility: Establishing a Connection to Manitoba

While submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI), a crucial aspect of Manitoba PNP is to establish a connection to Manitoba. MPNP has laid down guidelines in this regard, and defined 3 major streams through which this connection can be established:-

1. Skilled Worker Stream- Under this stream, there are two major work categories with separate pathways for each category. You can submit your EOI as either one of the following:-

• Skilled Worker in Manitoba- You can choose the Manitoba Work Experience Pathway if you are currently working in Manitoba with a temporary work permit. Else you can select the Employers Direct Recruitment Pathway. This is when you have prior experience working in Manitoba and a job offer from a pre-approved Manitoba employer.

• Skilled Worker Overseas- If you are overseas, you need to establish a connection via family/friends in Manitoba. Else you need to show that you have previously studied or worked there. There are two important pathways if you are a skilled worker overseas:-

a) Manitoba Express Entry Pathway- If your profile matches the Manitoba Express Entry profile requirements, your candidature will be processed immediately. The key requirement for this profile is to skills/qualifications in high demand with Manitoba employers. It is also important to have family/close friends residing in Manitoba.

b) Human Capital Pathway- Very recently introduced, this pathway lays emphasis on the candidate clearing IELTS for Canadian language proficiency. You need at least 6 months work experience and a close relative who has lived in Manitoba for 1 year.

2. International Education Stream- This is the second stream to submit your EOI under the Manitoba PNP. This is majorly for students who are about to graduate from Manitoba-based Universities. It provides them with an opportunity to pursue their career in Manitoba as a permanent resident. There are several pathways to apply under this stream such as:-

• Career Employment Program

• Graduate Internship Program

• Entrepreneur Pilot Program for International Students

3. Business Investor Stream- This is the third stream to apply under Manitoba PNP. As the name suggests, the Business Investor Stream is for entrepreneurs willing to invest in Manitoba. There are several investment norms and parameters. The two major pathways in this stream are:-

• Farm Investor Pathway for those who intend to invest in rural farming

• Entrepreneurial Pathway for starting a business in Manitoba.

Conclusion

If you are keen to work in the beautiful province of Manitoba, the Manitoba PNP provides an excellent opportunity. Several new streams such as the Manitoba Express Entry Pathway have been added recently to speed up recruitment. Should you seek assistance from immigration consultants to migrate to Manitoba, ensure that they are registered under the ICCRC.