CIC News reports that on 5 December Manitoba issued 184 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) under its Provincial Nominee Program—the highest one-day total since October. Published 6 December, the draw prioritised applicants who hold, or can obtain, special two-year open work permits created by a federal public-policy exemption that expires on 31 December.
Invitations were split between the Skilled Worker in Manitoba and Skilled Worker Overseas pathways, but 126 LAAs—almost 70 per cent—went to candidates supported by Manitoba employers under the temporary work-permit policy. A further 61 candidates had active Express Entry profiles, meaning they will receive an additional 600 points once nominated, virtually guaranteeing a federal invitation to apply for permanent residence.
![Manitoba PNP invites record 184 candidates in first December draw]()
Manitoba’s strategy reflects a broader 2025 trend: with nomination allocations cut nearly in half nationwide, provinces are focusing on workers who are already contributing locally or have direct employer support. By channelling scarce spots toward in-province talent, Manitoba hopes to retain graduates and temporary foreign workers who might otherwise move elsewhere when permits expire.
Employers have until 16 December to request “Manitoba Support Letters” that enable eligible staff to apply for the two-year work permit. Mobility professionals should act quickly: applications for the federal permit close 31 December, and the next provincial draw is expected late this month.
For assignees, the draw underscores the importance of maintaining accurate Expression of Interest profiles; candidates who mis-entered language-test numbers or recruitment-invite codes were excluded despite meeting score thresholds.
Invitations were split between the Skilled Worker in Manitoba and Skilled Worker Overseas pathways, but 126 LAAs—almost 70 per cent—went to candidates supported by Manitoba employers under the temporary work-permit policy. A further 61 candidates had active Express Entry profiles, meaning they will receive an additional 600 points once nominated, virtually guaranteeing a federal invitation to apply for permanent residence.
Manitoba’s strategy reflects a broader 2025 trend: with nomination allocations cut nearly in half nationwide, provinces are focusing on workers who are already contributing locally or have direct employer support. By channelling scarce spots toward in-province talent, Manitoba hopes to retain graduates and temporary foreign workers who might otherwise move elsewhere when permits expire.
Employers have until 16 December to request “Manitoba Support Letters” that enable eligible staff to apply for the two-year work permit. Mobility professionals should act quickly: applications for the federal permit close 31 December, and the next provincial draw is expected late this month.
For assignees, the draw underscores the importance of maintaining accurate Expression of Interest profiles; candidates who mis-entered language-test numbers or recruitment-invite codes were excluded despite meeting score thresholds.
