On June 25, 2024, Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) issued 250 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to skilled workers overseas, targeting candidates with experience in various nursing occupations.
This draw, part of the Skilled Worker Overseas stream under Manitoba’s Immigration Pathways, considered eligible profiles declaring nursing as their current occupation. The June 25th selection saw the lowest-ranked candidate invited having a score of 516, indicating a competitive selection process.
Occupations targeted in this draw included:
- Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses
- Nurse practitioners
- Licensed practical nurses
- Nurse aides, orderlies, and patient service associates
Notably, 93 of the 250 LAAs were issued to candidates who had valid Express Entry profiles, showcasing the integration between provincial and federal immigration systems.
This occupation-specific selection highlights Manitoba’s commitment to addressing labor market needs in the healthcare sector. The province has been grappling with nursing shortages, a challenge exacerbated by the lingering effects of the global pandemic and an aging population.
For candidates who believe they should have been invited but weren’t, the MPNP provided several potential explanations:
- Invalid or expired language test results
- Missing or invalid Strategic Recruitment Initiative invitation numbers
- Declared occupations not matching those considered in the draw
The program emphasized the importance of providing accurate and up-to-date information in Expression of Interest (EOI) profiles. Candidates are encouraged to review their profiles and ensure all details are correct and current to maximize their chances in future draws.
Additionally, the MPNP issued a cautionary note to candidates working in regulated occupations. Those invited must be fully licensed to work in Manitoba, and the program may refuse applications from candidates who cannot provide proof of having completed all necessary licensing steps. In such cases, candidates are advised to consider declining their LAA to avoid potential complications.
This targeted draw underscores Manitoba’s proactive approach to immigration, aligning its nominee program with specific labor market demands. By focusing on nursing professionals, the province aims to strengthen its healthcare workforce, ultimately benefiting the quality of care available to Manitobans.
For prospective immigrants in the nursing field, this draw presents a significant opportunity. However, it also highlights the importance of understanding and meeting all requirements, from language proficiency to occupational licensing.
As Canada continues to rely on immigration to address labor shortages in critical sectors, province-specific draws like this one are likely to become increasingly common. Aspiring immigrants are advised to stay informed about provincial nominee programs and tailor their applications accordingly.
The Canada Time will continue to monitor and report on immigration trends across the country, providing valuable insights for both newcomers and policymakers as Canada shapes its workforce for the future.
