The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) conducted Draw #280 on 24 September 2026, inviting 474 candidates to apply for provincial nomination. The bulk of invitations—417—went to Skilled Worker candidates already employed in Manitoba under Broad Occupational Category 2 (natural and applied sciences). The lowest ranking score accepted in that group was 760. Sixteen invitations were allocated to a dedicated Francophone selection, while 40 letters went through strategic-recruitment initiatives that include Employer Services, Regional Communities and a temporary work-permit public-policy pathway. Notably, one invitation targeted a practising family physician (NOC 31102), underlining the province’s ongoing push to shore up rural health-care capacity. Of all invitees, 148 also held valid Express Entry profiles, meaning they can claim an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points once nominated—virtually guaranteeing a federal invitation to apply for permanent residence. The draw confirms Manitoba’s shift toward in-province employment as the key selection lever, a trend analysts say is likely to continue as the province competes with Alberta and Saskatchewan for STEM talent. Employers sponsoring workers under the MPNP Employer Direct category should ensure job offers are fully compliant with programme requirements, including proof of genuine ongoing labour need. Successful applicants have 60 days to submit complete nomination packages and must be prepared to demonstrate settlement funds and an intention to reside in Manitoba. Processing times for MPNP final decisions currently average four months, after which nominees can apply federally for permanent residence.
