Provincial Nominees: Manitoba’s Most Wanted

Manitoba is one of Canada’s central provinces, with a high standard of living and pride in its cultural diversity. Less known to new immigrants than British Columbia and Ontario, Manitoba has taken a pro-active approach to attracting Skilled Worker immigrants with its Provincial Nominee Program.

In the past Manitoba has targeted skilled persons in particular occupations and trades. Beginning this July, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program is open to all immigrants that would be employable in Manitoba and meet the requirements of an assessment stream, regardless of their occupation.

Manitoba offers six different streams through which Nominees can qualify. The streams are: Employer Direct, International Students, Family Support, Community Support, Strategic Recruitment, and General. This flexible approach allows candidates from all backgrounds and experience to be welcomed by the province. Generally, some social or employment ties to the province are necessary.

In 2004, approximately 7400 new immigrants made Manitoba their home. Of these, over 4000 were Provincial Nominees. In same year, Manitoba Nominees represented close to two thirds of all Nominees issued permanent resident visas by Canada. It is one of the strongest programs of its kind in the country. Nominees that are selected by Manitoba are thoroughly supported by the Province, both during the application process and after they arrive in Canada.