Last Updated: December 2025 | A comprehensive guide for Filipino immigrants exploring Manitoba’s provincial nominee program
The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is one of Canada’s most accessible provincial immigration programs, with a large and welcoming Filipino community already established in Winnipeg. Manitoba offers affordable living, excellent healthcare, and multiple pathways to permanent residence for skilled workers, international students, and entrepreneurs.
Why Choose Manitoba?
Manitoba offers compelling advantages for Filipino immigrants:
- Large Filipino Community – Winnipeg has one of Canada’s largest Filipino populations per capita
- Affordable Living – Lower housing costs and cost of living compared to Toronto and Vancouver
- Strong Job Market – High demand for healthcare workers, trades, and skilled professionals
- Family-Friendly – Excellent schools, safe neighborhoods, and strong community support
- +600 CRS Points – Provincial nomination adds 600 points to Express Entry profiles
- Multiple Pathways – Options for skilled workers, students, and business investors
MPNP Streams Overview
The MPNP operates 3 main streams with multiple pathways:
| Stream | Pathways | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Stream | Skilled Worker in Manitoba (SWM) Skilled Worker Overseas (SWO) |
Workers with Manitoba connections or in-demand skills |
| International Education Stream | Career Employment Pathway Graduate Internship Pathway International Student Entrepreneur Pilot |
Manitoba graduates |
| Business Investor Stream | Entrepreneur Pathway Farm Investor Pathway |
Business owners and farmers |
Skilled Worker Stream
The Skilled Worker Stream is the most popular pathway for Filipino immigrants to Manitoba. It has two pathways based on your current location.
Skilled Worker in Manitoba (SWM)
For candidates already working in Manitoba with a valid work permit.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Work Experience | Currently employed in Manitoba for at least 6 months with the same employer |
| Job Offer | Full-time, permanent job offer from your current Manitoba employer |
| Education | Minimum high school diploma or equivalent |
| Language | CLB 4 minimum (CLB 5+ for higher EOI scores) |
| Settlement Funds | Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and family |
Skilled Worker Overseas (SWO)
For candidates outside Canada with connections to Manitoba or skills in demand.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Manitoba Connection | Close relative in Manitoba, previous work/study in Manitoba, OR invited through Strategic Recruitment Initiative |
| Work Experience | Minimum 6 months in an occupation on Manitoba’s In-Demand Occupations list |
| Education | Minimum high school diploma or equivalent |
| Language | CLB 5 minimum (CLB 7+ recommended for competitive EOI score) |
| Settlement Funds | Proof of sufficient funds for at least 6 months |
| Age | No age limit, but 21-45 receives maximum points |
Important: The SWO pathway requires applicants to have a connection to Manitoba. If you don’t have family in Manitoba, you may be invited through the Strategic Recruitment Initiative based on your occupation and qualifications.
International Education Stream (IES)
For international students who have graduated from Manitoba post-secondary institutions.
Career Employment Pathway
- Graduate from a Manitoba designated learning institution
- Have a full-time job offer from a Manitoba employer related to your field of study
- CLB 7 in all four language abilities
- Currently employed or have a job offer in Manitoba
Graduate Internship Pathway
- Complete a master’s or doctoral degree in a STEM or Business field
- Complete an industry internship through Mitacs in Manitoba
- CLB 7 in all four language abilities
- No job offer required
International Student Entrepreneur Pilot (ISEP)
- Graduate from a Manitoba post-secondary institution (minimum 2 years)
- Valid Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- Operate a business in Manitoba for at least 6 months
- Business plan approval required
Business Investor Stream
Entrepreneur Pathway
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Experience | Minimum 3 years as owner/senior manager |
| Net Worth | $500,000 CAD minimum |
| Investment | $250,000 (Winnipeg) or $150,000 (rural Manitoba) |
| Job Creation | Create at least 1 job for Canadian citizen/PR |
| Language | CLB 5 minimum |
Farm Investor Pathway
- Minimum 3 years farm management experience
- Net worth of at least $500,000 CAD
- Intent to purchase or establish a farm in rural Manitoba
- Conduct exploratory visit to Manitoba
Manitoba EOI Points System
The MPNP uses an Expression of Interest (EOI) system to rank candidates. Your EOI is scored out of 1,000 points based on six factors.
Points Breakdown
| Factor | Maximum Points | Key Criteria |
|---|---|---|
| Language Proficiency | 125 points | CLB 8+ = 25 pts/band; Second language adds 25 pts |
| Age | 75 points | Ages 21-45 = maximum 75 points |
| Work Experience | 175 points | 4+ years = 75 pts; Manitoba license = 100 pts |
| Education | 125 points | Master’s/PhD = 125 pts; Bachelor’s (2+ yrs) = 100 pts |
| Adaptability | 500 points | Manitoba employment (6+ months) = up to 500 pts |
| Risk Assessment | -200 points | Deductions for ties to other provinces |
Adaptability Factors (Highest Value)
The Adaptability category offers the most points and includes:
- Ongoing Manitoba employment (6+ months) with long-term job offer – Up to 500 points
- Close relative in Manitoba – 200 points
- Previous work experience in Manitoba – 100 points
- Previous education in Manitoba – 100 points
- Immigration outside Winnipeg (regional) – 50 bonus points
Tip: Having a Manitoba job offer or close relative is crucial for a competitive EOI score. Recent draws have had cutoffs between 626-721 points.
Recent MPNP Draws (2025)
| Date | Stream | Invitations | Lowest Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| November 21, 2025 | Skilled Worker | 35 | Varies by pathway |
| October 23, 2025 (#256) | Mixed | 29 (9 Express Entry) | Varies |
| July 10, 2025 (#249) | SWM, SWO, IES | 67 | 673 |
| June 26, 2025 (#248) | SWM, SWO | 28 | 712 |
| May 15, 2025 | Skilled Worker Overseas | 62 | 626 |
| March 21, 2025 | SWM, SWO | 108 | 705 (SWO) |
Note: EOI scores vary significantly based on draw type. Strategic Recruitment Initiative draws may have different cutoffs.
Manitoba In-Demand Occupations
Manitoba maintains a list of in-demand occupations that receive priority in EOI draws. Key sectors include:
Healthcare
- Registered Nurses (NOC 31301)
- Licensed Practical Nurses (NOC 32101)
- Nurse Aides and Orderlies (NOC 33102)
- Pharmacists (NOC 31120)
- Physiotherapists (NOC 31202)
- Medical Laboratory Technologists (NOC 32120)
Trades and Manufacturing
- Industrial Electricians (NOC 72201)
- Plumbers (NOC 72300)
- Carpenters (NOC 72310)
- Welders (NOC 72106)
- HVAC Mechanics (NOC 72402)
- Machinists (NOC 72100)
- Industrial Butchers/Meat Cutters (NOC 94141)
Technology and Business
- Computer Systems Developers (NOC 21230)
- Web Designers (NOC 21233)
- Data Scientists (NOC 21211)
- Financial Auditors and Accountants (NOC 11100)
- Human Resource Professionals (NOC 11200)
Important: Check the official Manitoba In-Demand Occupations List for the most current listings and CLB requirements.
Language Requirements
| Pathway | Minimum CLB | Recommended for Competitive EOI |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker in Manitoba | CLB 4 | CLB 7+ |
| Skilled Worker Overseas | CLB 5 | CLB 7-8 |
| International Education Stream | CLB 7 | CLB 7 |
| Entrepreneur Pathway | CLB 5 | CLB 5 |
Accepted Language Tests
- English: IELTS General Training, CELPIP-General
- French: TEF Canada, TCF Canada
Processing Times
| Stage | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| EOI Assessment | Ongoing (draws held regularly) |
| Provincial Application | 3-6 months |
| Federal PR Application | 12-18 months (non-Express Entry) 6 months (Express Entry enhanced) |
| Total (Standard) | 15-24 months |
| Total (Express Entry) | 9-12 months |
Application Fees
| Fee Type | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| EOI Submission | Free |
| Provincial Application Fee | $500 |
| Federal PR Application | $1,365 (principal applicant) |
How to Apply
Step 1: Create an EOI Profile
- Visit the Manitoba Immigration website
- Create an account and complete your EOI profile
- Provide accurate information about your education, work experience, language scores, and Manitoba connections
- Submit your EOI – it’s free to submit
Step 2: Wait for a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA)
- Manitoba conducts regular EOI draws
- If your score meets the cutoff, you’ll receive an LAA
- LAA is valid for 60 days
Step 3: Submit Full Application
- Gather all required documents (language test, education credentials, work experience letters, etc.)
- Submit your complete application within 60 days of receiving the LAA
- Pay the $500 provincial application fee
Step 4: Receive Provincial Nomination
- If approved, you’ll receive a provincial nomination certificate
- Apply for federal PR through the paper-based process OR
- If you have an Express Entry profile, accept the nomination for +600 CRS points
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a job offer to apply through MPNP?
For Skilled Worker in Manitoba, yes – you need a job offer from your current Manitoba employer. For Skilled Worker Overseas, a job offer isn’t required but you need a strong connection to Manitoba (close relative, previous work/study, or strategic recruitment invitation).
What EOI score do I need to get invited?
Recent draws have had cutoffs ranging from 626 to 721 points. However, having ongoing Manitoba employment can award up to 500 points alone. Aim for at least 700 points to be competitive.
Can I apply from the Philippines?
Yes, through the Skilled Worker Overseas pathway if you have a close relative in Manitoba or your occupation is on the in-demand list and you’re invited through strategic recruitment.
How is MPNP different from Express Entry?
MPNP is a provincial program that can be used independently or to enhance your Express Entry application. A Manitoba nomination adds 600 CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an ITA. MPNP also has lower language requirements (CLB 4-5) compared to Express Entry (CLB 7).
What if I have family in Winnipeg?
Having a close relative (parent, sibling, child, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew) who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Manitoba gives you 200 adaptability points and makes you eligible for the Skilled Worker Overseas pathway.
Explore Other Provincial Programs
Each Canadian province has its own nominee program. Compare your options:
- Ontario OINP Guide – Canada’s largest province with the biggest Filipino community
- BC PNP Guide – Second-largest Filipino population, tech hub
- Alberta AAIP Guide – Strong job market in healthcare and skilled trades
- Saskatchewan SINP Guide – In-demand occupations and fast processing
How JCA Law Office Can Help
As a Toronto-based firm with deep connections to the Filipino community, JCA Law Office provides expert guidance on Manitoba immigration:
- Eligibility assessment – Determine which MPNP pathway is right for you
- EOI optimization – Maximize your points for the best chance of invitation
- Document preparation – Ensure your application is complete and accurate
- Express Entry coordination – Link your MPNP nomination to Express Entry for faster processing
- Employer connections – Guidance on finding Manitoba employers willing to hire foreign workers
📞 Call us today: 1-855-522-5290
📧 Email: [email protected]
Related Resources
Explore our other provincial immigration guides:
- Filipino Immigrant Guide to Canada – From Visa to PR (Main Guide)
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) Complete Guide
- British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) Guide
- Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) Guide
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and MPNP requirements change frequently. For personalized advice on your situation, please consult with a licensed immigration lawyer or consultant.
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