May 19, 2025

https://youtu.be/0AJAItcRLks?si=FIXJR7-Op9JElneU Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) has long been viewed as a gateway to permanent residency (PR) in Canada—especially for applicants from other provinces. But in 2025, the rules changed dramatically. With quota cuts, tougher scoring rules, and revised draw patterns, Manitoba is no longer a safe PR backup for candidates studying or working outside the province. If your education or work history is outside Manitoba, be prepared for severe penalties in your Expression of Interest (EOI) profile: Minus 100 points for studying outside Manitoba and another minus 100 points for work experience outside Manitoba. Even applicants with 3–4 years of experience now score between 660–675, which is far below the current MPNP draw thresholds. The numbers speak for themselves. Here’s how MPNP scoring has shifted: In Skilled Worker General Stream, 2024 Draw Range was between 823 – 872 And in 2025, the latest draw score was 861. So, a score of 675? Not competitive at all! For Close Relative in Manitoba Stream, the last known cutoff was 840. With a score of 675? Not eligible in any way! For Occupation-Specific Draws, in 2024, Only 24 NOC codes were selected from 510 available in Canada. At this rate, it could take two decades to cycle through all eligible occupations. Moreover, the nomination quota Slashed in 2025 to 4750. That’s a 50% reduction, making 2025 MPNP one of the most competitive years ever. Meanwhile, most of the 2024 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) are still being processed, further limiting slots for new applicants in 2025. Manitoba is prioritizing in-province ties and high-demand occupations. Out-of-province applicants without close family in Manitoba or a job offer have virtually no chance unless they- – Study in Manitoba– Gain work experience in Manitoba– Receive a job offer or qualify under an in-demand NOC code Historically, MPNP scores ranged from 375–499, making it an accessible pathway. However, scores are expected to remain above 800 until late 2027 or early 2028 If you’re outside Manitoba, here’s what you should consider: – Move to Manitoba for studies or employment under a valid permit– Monitor occupation-specific draws and identify if your NOC is in demand– Avoid unauthorized agents—only trust licensed Canadian immigration lawyers– Explore alternative PR pathways such as Express Entry, RNIP, or other PNPs At A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation, our Winnipeg-based legal team helps clients to understand complex MPNP trends, maximize points and strengthen their EOI profiles and prepare complete, compliant applications that reflect the latest policies. Book a Free Consultation today and let us help you adapt to Manitoba’s new immigration reality and create a personalized pathway toward PR in Canada. A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation, Winnipeg’s Trusted Immigration Experts!

https://youtu.be/mY0x0acyF-k?si=WqJ3XM0LO-8WdVVd As Canada continues to address critical labor shortages, the Brandon Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) has officially launched, offering a community-driven pathway to Permanent Residency for skilled workers. But before you apply, it’s essential to understand who qualifies and who doesn’t. The Brandon RCIP is a rural immigration initiative launched to attract and retain skilled foreign workers in Brandon, Manitoba. This community-led pilot allows local employers to fill labor gaps that can’t be met by Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Employer Eligibility Criteria To participate in the RCIP, employers must meet the following requirements: – Be operational for at least 2 years – Have a position that aligns with the priority occupation list – Operate within the geographic boundaries of Brandon’s RCIP – Prove that the job cannot be filled by a Canadian or PR The current priority list includes 25 occupations, most of which are NOC 0–3 level (highly skilled). The examples are: 1. Family Physicians 2. Civil Engineers 3. Mechanical Engineering Technologists 4. Early Childhood Educators 5. Welders and Plumbers There were only 2 roles under NOC 4–5. 1. Industrial butchers and meat cutters 2. Construction trades helpers and laborers Most positions require Canadian work experience, certifications, or licenses to qualify. Some occupations under the RCIP demand specific Canadian credentials. For example, Physicians, Dentists, Civil Engineers → Require provincial or federal licensing Plumbers and Welders → Trade certifications required (Manitoba has voluntary certification for some trades) Early Childhood Educators→ May need post-secondary education and provincial licensing Without these, even highly qualified candidates may be ineligible. Although international students are a growing demographic in Canada, RCIP may not be a viable PR pathway for many, because, 1. Most students pursue academic programs unrelated to RCIP jobs (e.g., Marketing, Business, or Computer Science) 2. Licensing barriers: Jobs like dentists, engineers, or early childhood educators require long professional routes and certification Unless you’re training in in-demand trades or licensed professions aligned with Brandon’s RCIP occupation list, this program may not work for you. If you’re an international student, consider pursuing skilled trades certification, gaining relevant Canadian work experience and exploring other PR pathways like Express Entry or PNP with post-graduate work experience. At A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation, we provide personalized legal advice for RCIP and community pilot programs, Skilled worker PR applications and many more. Book your free consultation with our Winnipeg-based immigration lawyer today at A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation.

https://youtu.be/zmHYq6Ct0VU?si=Eryh-tHE-IYXPs0i As Express Entry applicants await the next Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw, misinformation is spreading rapidly on social media. Many hopeful candidates are anticipating a CRS score below 500—but the data says otherwise. Let’s break down what recent trends and statistics tell us about where the CEC draws are likely headed in 2025. While no one can guarantee an exact number, data-driven forecasting, based on historical trends, current pool composition, and draw volumes can accurately estimate the range. With the 2024 removal of LMIA job offer points, around 5,740 candidates lost significant CRS points. This move aimed to level the playing field but also intensified competition within the CEC category. In 2024, 10 CEC-specific draws were held and 26,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued. In 2025, 4 draws were completed and 9,850 ITAs were issued. Despite the widespread belief that scores will drop below 500, the most realistic forecast shows that Sub-500 scores are highly unlikely under current conditions. CEC draw scores might drop only if: – Draw sizes increase dramatically (15,000+ ITAs per draw) – Draw frequency rises (e.g., weekly instead of bi-weekly) – A targeted occupation-based CEC draw is introduced Until then, expect high cutoffs and fierce competition. Aim for a CRS score of 520+ to stay competitive and update your profile regularly to reflect any new qualifications or language test results. Consider PNP streams if you’re consistently below the 500 range and Work with a licensed immigration professional to explore all options. At A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation, our Winnipeg-based team of immigration lawyers can help you assess and improve your Express Entry profile and identify opportunities for PNP nomination and explore alternate PR pathways suited to your profile. Book a Free Consultation today with A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation.