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May 13, 2025
May 13, 2025

IRCC issues 511 invitations in third Express Entry Draw of May

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,

On May 12, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the details of the third Express Entry draw for the month in a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw..

In this round, 511 candidates received invitations to apply, provided they had a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of at least 706.

See below details of latest Express Entry Draw of May 12, 2025

  • Category/Program: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate: 706
  • Number of ITAs Issued: 511
  • Rank Required: 511 or above
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: March 4, 2025

See below summary of Express Entry Draws so far in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
May 12 Provincial Nominee Program 511 706
May 2 Healthcare and social services 500 510
May 1 Education 1,000 479
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
March 3 Provincial Nominee Program 725 667
February 19 French language proficiency 6,500 428
February 17 Provincial Nominee Program 646 750
February 5 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 521
February 4 Provincial Nominee Program 455 802
January 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 527
January 8 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542
January 7 Provincial Nominee Program 471 793

Express Entry has served as Canada’s main system for managing applications from skilled workers, aimed at addressing the country’s labour market requirements.

See below CRS Score Distribution in the pool as at May 12

CRS score range Number of candidates
601-1200 513
501-600 22,316
451-500 73,582
491-500 12,399
481-490 12,663
471-480 16,612
461-470 16,663
451-460 15,245
401-450 69,467
441-450 14,401
431-440 15,200
421-430 13,675
411-420 13,552
401-410 12,639
351-400 53,598
301-350 22,051
0-300 8,442
Total 249,969

Understanding How Express Entry Invitations Are Issued

Canada’s Express Entry system follows a clear, step-by-step approach when inviting individuals to apply for permanent residency.

Here’s how the process generally unfolds:

  • Type of Draw Chosen: First, immigration officials decide what kind of draw will take place—whether it’s open to all candidates, limited to a specific program, or focused on a particular category like job type or language skills.

  • Number of Invitations: A target number of candidates is set, based on current immigration goals.

  • Candidate Selection: Profiles in the Express Entry pool are ranked by score, and those with the highest points who meet the criteria for that draw are chosen.

  • Invitations Sent Out: Selected applicants receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. From there, they have 60 days to submit a complete application.

What Affects Each Draw?

A few key factors shape how each round of invitations plays out:

  • Immigration Goals: Canada plans to welcome close to 400,000 newcomers each year, with a large portion coming through Express Entry.

  • Workforce Demands: Sometimes, draws are tailored to specific industries or skill sets needed in the country.

  • CRS Score Thresholds: The minimum score needed to receive an ITA can vary depending on how many candidates are in the pool and the type of draw being held.

Need Help with Your Canadian Immigration Journey?

Whether you’re looking to:

  • Apply for a visitor visa
  • Submit a work permit or visa application
  • Create an Expression of Interest
  • Set up your Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Program profile
  • Prepare your application after receiving an Invitation to Apply
  • Or just want a professional review of your self-prepared application

—we’ve got you covered!

Book a consultation today or reach out to us at info@eseumohimmigration.com. Let’s make your move to Canada smoother and stress-free!

May 12, 2025
May 12, 2025

BC PNP issues 94 invitations in first Skills Immigration Draw of 2025

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On May 8, 2025, the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) held its first Skills Immigration draw of the year, issuing a total of 94 invitations to candidates expected to bring high economic impact to the province.

The invitations were equally divided between two groups:

  • 47 candidates who are currently employed full-time in British Columbia, earning a minimum of $105 per hour, and who hold a job offer classified under NOC TEER 0 or 1.
  • 47 candidates who achieved a minimum score of 150 points according to the BC PNP’s points-based assessment system.

To be considered, candidates needed to have submitted a registration before the draw date.

See below details of BC PNP latest draw

Total Number of invitations issued Selection Criteria
94 Minimum wage of $105/hr, currently working full-time in BC for the supporting employer, and the job offer is NOC TEER 0 or 1 (47 candidates), or
A minimum score of 150 points (47 candidates)

This draw marks the BC PNP’s first under the Skills Immigration stream in 2025, following earlier draws this year that focused solely on the entrepreneur categories. The province has stated that, due to significantly reduced nomination allocations from the federal government, only around 100 candidates will be nominated through the high-economic impact pathway this year.

BC PNP notes that future draws under this stream may evaluate candidates based on a broader range of criteria, including:

  • Level, field, and location of completed education;
  • Professional designations earned in British Columbia;
  • Language proficiency;
  • Relevant occupation and work experience;
  • Wage and skill level associated with the job offer;
  • Candidate’s intent to live and work in a specific B.C. region;
  • Alignment with strategic priorities addressing labor market needs or supporting pilot programs.
Require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

 

 

May 7, 2025
May 7, 2025

Sault Ste Marie announces Employers and Priority Jobs for 2025 RCIP

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News

Dear future neighbour,

Sault Ste. Marie has recently published its list of designated employers for the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP). This program allows foreign nationals to seek Canadian permanent residency if they receive a job offer from an employer on this list and meet other eligibility requirements.

Designated Employers in Sault Ste. Marie

Some of the employers taking part in the RCIP include:

  • Algoma Tubes Inc (Tenaris Canada)

  • Child Care Algoma

  • China Steel Inc.

  • Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar and Grill

  • Extendicare Mapleview

  • F. J. Davey Home

  • Giovanni’s Restaurant

  • JD Aero Technical Inc.

  • Meadow Park Montessori School

  • Montanas

  • Northern Power Train

  • OTR Engineered Solution

  • Para Med

  • Sault Area Hospital

  • Sault Ste. Marie YMCA

  • Viacore

This list can change over time as more employers join or leave the program.

How Employers Get Designated

If a local employer works in a priority sector and wants to hire a foreign worker for a priority occupation, they can apply to become a designated employer through the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation.

About Sault Ste. Marie and the RCIP

Sault Ste. Marie is a city in Northern Ontario. For 2025, it has been given 300 spots for the RCIP pathway to permanent residency. The main goal of the RCIP is to help smaller communities grow by attracting skilled workers who can fill important jobs and settle in the area.

Who Can Apply for Sault Ste. Marie’s RCIP?

To be eligible for the RCIP in Sault Ste. Marie, applicants must:

  • Get a valid job offer from a designated employer in the community

  • Have at least one year of relevant work experience in the past three years

  • Show language skills by passing an approved test that matches the job’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) level

  • Hold a Canadian educational credential or a recognized foreign equivalent

  • Prove they have enough money to support themselves and any family members

  • Receive a community recommendation, which checks if the applicant truly wants to live in Sault Ste. Marie and if the job offer is genuine

Priority Sectors and Occupations

The main sectors Sault Ste. Marie is focusing on for 2025 are:

  • Health

  • Education, law, social, community, and government services

  • Sales and service

  • Trades and transport

  • Manufacturing and utilities

Some of the priority occupations include mechanical and electrical engineers, pharmacy technicians, nurse practitioners, licensed practical nurses, personal support workers, therapists, social and community service workers, early childhood educators, contractors, industrial electricians, transit operators, and machinists.

See below full list of Priority Occupations for PR in Sault Ste. Marie

  1. Healthcare Occupations: Healthcare plays a vital role in Sault Ste. Marie’s economy, and the demand for qualified professionals in this field continues to increase as the community grows

The following occupations are eligible:

NOC Code Occupation Name Description
32124 Pharmacy Technician Assists pharmacists in dispensing medications and managing pharmacy operations.
31301 Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses Provides direct patient care, including administering treatments and monitoring health conditions.
32101 Licensed Practical Nurses Supports patient care under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians.
33102 Personal Support Worker Assists individuals with daily living activities, often in long-term care settings.

2. Education, Law, and Social, Community, and Government Services

NOC Code Occupation Name Description
41301 Therapists in Counseling and Related Specialized Therapies Provides mental health support and counseling services.
42201 Social and Community Service Workers Supports individuals and families through social programs and services.
42202 Early Childhood Educators and Assistants Works with young children to support their development and education.

3.  Sales and Services: The sales and services sector covers supervisory positions in hospitality and security, with set limits to maintain balanced hiring.

NOC Code Occupation Name Description Annual Cap
62020 Food Service Supervisor (Hotels and Dine-In Restaurants Only) Oversees food service operations, ensuring quality and customer satisfaction. 25 (Max 2 per employer)
62022 Guest Service Supervisor (Hotels Only) Manages guest services in hotels, ensuring a positive guest experience. 10
62029 Security Guard Supervisor Supervises security personnel to ensure safety and compliance. 20

    4.  Trades and Transport: This sector features specialized positions in engineering, construction, and transportation, highlighting the city’s focus on industrial growth and infrastructure development

NOC Code Occupation Name Description
21301 Mechanical Engineers Designs and develops mechanical systems and equipment.
21310 Electrical and Electronics Engineers Designs and tests electrical and electronic systems.
22212 Drafting Technologists and Technicians Creates technical drawings for engineering and construction projects.
22301 Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians Supports mechanical engineering projects with technical expertise.
22310 Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technologists and Technicians Assists in the design and maintenance of electrical systems.
72010 Contractors and Supervisors, Machining, Metal Forming, Shaping, and Erecting Trades Oversees machining and metalworking operations.
72011 Contractors and Supervisors, Electrical Trades and Telecommunications Supervises electrical and telecommunications projects.
72014 Contractors and Supervisors, Other Construction Traders, Installers, Repairers, and Servicers Manages various construction and installation projects.
72201 Industrial Electricians Installs and maintains electrical systems in industrial settings.
73301 Transit Operators Operates buses or other transit vehicles.
72100 Machinists and Machining and Tooling Inspectors Operates machinery to produce precision parts.
72400 Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics Installs and maintains industrial machinery.
72404 Aircraft Instruments, Electrical, and Avionics Mechanics, Technicians, and Inspectors Maintains aircraft systems and avionics equipment.
75119 Trade Helper and Laborers Assists skilled tradespeople in various tasks.

 

5.  Manufacturing and Utilities: This sector features essential roles that support Sault Ste. Marie’s manufacturing industry and industrial foundation

NOC Code Occupation Name Description
94107 Production Worker Operates machinery and performs tasks in manufacturing and production settings.

How the RCIP Process Works

Applicants need to:

  • Find a job offer from a designated employer in Sault Ste. Marie

  • Meet all eligibility requirements, including work experience, language, and education

  • Get a recommendation from the community

  • Apply to the federal government for permanent residency through the RCIP

This program helps Sault Ste. Marie fill job shortages, supports local businesses, and encourages newcomers to settle in the community for the long term.

Other communities, such as Timmins and Thunder Bay, are also participating in the RCIP and have published their own lists of designated employers.

Need help securing a Canadian visitor visa, submitting a visa or work permit application, preparing an Expression of Interest, setting up your Express Entry or provincial nomination profile, completing your application after receiving an invitation, or reviewing your documents before submission? Book a consultation or contact us at info@eseumohimmigration.com for professional support every step of the way.

May 6, 2025
May 6, 2025

IRCC Eases IEC Work Permit Process

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News

Dear future neighbour,

Foreign nationals participating in the International Experience Canada (IEC) program no longer need to exit Canada to receive a new work permit, thanks to an updated policy from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). As long as applicants meet certain conditions, their work permit can now be delivered by mail within Canada.

Who Qualifies?

To be eligible for the mailed work permit:

  • The applicant must have been in Canada with a valid IEC permit when applying for another round of participation.

  • They need a valid Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction and must request the permit before it expires.

  • Their legal status in Canada must be maintained during the entire process.

This temporary measure remains in effect until December 1, 2025.

Applicants not meeting these criteria must still leave and return to Canada—but not via the U.S. or Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, due to the recent flagpoling restrictions introduced in December 2024.

Why the Change?

Previously, IEC participants had to leave and re-enter Canada to activate a second IEC work permit. While some could combine this with travel plans, others wishing to stay continuously found it inconvenient—especially after IRCC limited the flagpoling option at land borders.

This change offers a smoother transition for those seeking an extension, allowing continued stay and employment without disruption. However, applicants should apply early, as processing may take four to six weeks or longer.

About IEC

IEC enables youth from over 30 partner countries to work and travel in Canada for up to two years, fostering cultural exchange and professional growth. The program includes:

  • Working Holiday

  • Young Professionals

  • International Co-op (Internship)

A POE Letter of Introduction is required before entering Canada to activate the work permit.

If you need help with visa applications, permit renewals, or setting up your immigration profile, contact info@eseumohimmigration.com or schedule a consultation.

May 6, 2025
May 6, 2025

Thunder Bay announces Employers for PR Pathway under RCIP

Author By EUIC Admin Categories News

Dear future neighbour,

On May 5, 2025, Thunder Bay, Ontario, expanded its Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) by announcing a list of  designated employers authorized to recruit foreign workers for permanent residency.

Newly Designated Employers in Thunder Bay

The following employers have been officially designated under the RCIP:

Designated Employers Addresses
14786068 Canada Inc. Circle K 3 Balsam Street
1000661225 Ontario Inc. Circle K A- 1500 James street South
Clara Industrial Services Limited 1130 Commerce Street
Golden Wok 106 May St S
Great Canadian Oil Change 1160 Memorial Ave
Guac Mexi Grill 570 Harbour Expressway, Unit 2
Inspired Cabinetry & Granite Inc 146 Gore St West
JKS Enterprises – Diamond Taxi 113 Leith Street
Kasper Bus Lines 947 Memorial Ave
Lakehead Roofing & Metal Cladding Ltd. 1190 Russell Street
Land of Spices 707 Memorial Avenue, Unit 1
Lowerys, Limited 540 Central Avenue
Mahmowenchike Family Development Centre 150 Redwood Avenue West
Maltese Grocery Ltd 301 Pearl Street
Northern Turf Equipment 710B Balmoral St
Outlaws Burgers & Fries 801 Central Ave
Scott Family Dental 276 Park Ave
Shelter House 420 George St
Shoppers Drug Mart -681 & 1312 194 N. Court St
-1312 – 572 Arthur St W
SLR Contracting Corp. 105 May St N Unit 7
Spadoni Leasing Limited 450 Sifton Ave
Thundermaple Asian Food Co 777 Memorial Ave
Village Market 336 Wardrope Ave
Wasabi Restaurant 538 Arthur St West

These employers span various sectors, including retail, manufacturing, food services, transportation, and construction, reflecting Thunder Bay’s commitment to addressing labor shortages across multiple industries.

RCIP Overview

The RCIP is an employer-driven immigration initiative designed to attract skilled foreign workers to Thunder Bay by facilitating their pathway to permanent residence. Employers within the Thunder Bay Census Metropolitan Area can apply for designation through the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC). Once designated, these employers can offer jobs to eligible foreign workers and submit recommendation applications on their behalf.

Candidate Eligibility Criteria

To be considered under the RCIP, candidates must:

  • Secure a valid job offer from a designated employer in Thunder Bay.
  • Have at least one year (1,560 hours) of relevant work experience within the past three years.
  • Demonstrate language proficiency through an approved English or French language test.
  • Possess a Canadian educational credential or its foreign equivalent.
  • Provide proof of sufficient settlement funds for themselves and any accompanying family members.

It’s important to note that the list of designated employers is subject to change as the RCIP progresses.

Thunder Bay became the second RCIP community to publish its list of approved employers. Timmins, which also takes part in the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP), had released its employer list the week before.

So far, seven out of the 14 RCIP communities have identified their key sectors and in-demand jobs. These include:

  • Claresholm

  • Timmins

  • Brandon

  • Sault Ste. Marie

  • Thunder Bay

  • North Okanagan-Shuswap

  • North Bay

Require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

May 6, 2025
May 6, 2025

British Columbia Prioritizes Healthcare Professionals for 2025 Immigration Nominations

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

In a strategic move to manage a reduced immigration quota, the province of British Columbia (B.C.) has prioritized healthcare professionals for the majority of its 2025 immigration nominations under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Announced on April 14, the BC PNP introduced sweeping updates, including a significant cut in the number of new applications it will accept — just 1,100 for the entire year. While a limited portion of these will go to entrepreneurs and individuals contributing substantially to the province’s economy, most nominations are being directed towards healthcare-related roles.

To qualify under the Health Authority stream, candidates are now required to be employed in one of the following professions:

Occupation NOC Code
Animal health technologists and veterinary technicians 32104
Audiologists and speech-language pathologists 31112
Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists 32123
Chiropractors 31201
Dental assistants and dental laboratory assistants 33100
Dental hygienists and dental therapists 32111
Dental technologists and technicians 32112
Dentists 31110
Denturists 32110
Dietitians and nutritionists 31121
General practitioners and family physicians 31102
Kinesiologists and other professional occupations in therapy and assessment 31204
Licensed practical nurses 32101
Managers in health care 30010
Massage therapists 32201
Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations 33101
Medical laboratory technologists 32120
Medical radiation technologists 32121
Medical sonographers 32122
Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates 33102
Nurse practitioners 31302
Nursing coordinators and supervisors 31300
Occupational therapists 31203
Opticians 32100
Optometrists 31111
Other assisting occupations in support of health services 33109
Other medical technologists and technicians 32129
Other practitioners of natural healing 32209
Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating 31209
Other technical occupations in therapy and assessment 32109
Paramedical occupations 32102
Pharmacists 31120
Pharmacy technical assistants and pharmacy assistants 33103
Pharmacy technicians 32124
Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals 31303
Physiotherapists 31202
Psychologists 31200
Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses 31301
Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists 32103
Social and community service workers 42201
Social workers 41300
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine 31100
Specialists in surgery 31101
Therapists in counselling and related specialized therapies 41301
Traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and acupuncturists 32200
Veterinarians 31103

Key Requirements for Healthcare Applicants

To be eligible through the updated Health Authority stream, applicants must hold a permanent, full-time job offer from one of the province’s recognized public health authorities. Additionally, the eligibility standards for this pathway have been revised to focus strictly on roles that directly support healthcare delivery.

Eligible health employers now include:

  • Provincial Health Services Authority

  • First Nations Health Authority

  • Fraser Health

  • Interior Health

  • Island Health

  • Northern Health

  • Vancouver Coastal Health

  • Providence Health Care

Each of these organizations follows its own internal procedure to approve and support BC PNP applications.

Can Independent Healthcare Providers Qualify?

Yes — healthcare practitioners such as doctors, nurse practitioners, and midwives who operate independently may still be eligible. To qualify, they must receive formal support from either a B.C. public health authority or a licensed midwifery practice and demonstrate intent to practice in the province.

These applicants are expected to submit:

  • A recommendation letter

  • Proof of their credentials

  • Confirmation of current or future employment

  • A statement of support from the associated health authority or midwifery practice

Foreign healthcare professionals who meet all criteria can apply directly to the BC PNP under this stream.

Who Else Is Being Considered in 2025?

Beyond healthcare workers, B.C. plans to allocate a portion of its limited nominations to entrepreneurs and other applicants deemed to have a high economic impact. While specific criteria for this group have not been fully defined, it is expected to include individuals with high-demand skills, competitive salaries, and significant contributions to the provincial economy. Around 100 spots have been set aside for this category.

Since April 14, only those actively involved in healthcare provision — not administrative or support staff — are eligible under the Health Authority stream. This marks a clear shift from previous criteria, which were more inclusive of a broader range of roles within public health institutions.

Entrepreneurial candidates will continue to receive Invitations to Apply (ITAs) throughout the year, although the province has not disclosed the number of ITAs designated for this group.

Why the Change?

The B.C. government’s decision to narrow its focus comes in response to a sharp reduction in federal nomination allocations. The province received only 4,000 spots for 2025 — a dramatic 50% decrease from the prior year — while facing a backlog of over 5,000 applications at the start of the year.

To navigate these constraints, the province has paused intake for certain streams and is now concentrating on processing existing applications while limiting new ones to 1,100 in 2025.

Require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

April 29, 2025
April 29, 2025

IRCC invites 421 PNP Candidates in latest Express Entry Draw amid CRS Changes

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Express Entry

Dear future neighbour,​

On April 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted its most recent Express Entry draw, issuing 421 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

See below details of the April 28 Draw

  • Draw Category: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

  • Number of ITAs Issued: 421

  • Minimum CRS Score Required: 727

  • Date of Draw: April 28, 2025​

  • Tie-breaking Rule: 9 September 2024

This draw marks the second PNP-specific round in April, following an earlier draw on April 14, which invited 825 candidates with a higher minimum CRS score of 764 . The decrease in the CRS cut-off score reflects the broader impact of recent policy changes on the Express Entry system.

See below summary of Express Entry Draws in 2025

Date Draw Type Number of ITAs Cut-off CRS score
April 28 Provincial Nominee Program 421 727
April 14 Provincial Nominee Program 825 764
March 21 French language proficiency 7,500 379
March 17 Provincial Nominee Program 536 736
March 6 French language proficiency 4,500 410
March 3 Provincial Nominee Program 725 667
February 19 French language proficiency 6,500 428
February 17 Provincial Nominee Program 646 750
February 5 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 521
February 4 Provincial Nominee Program 455 802
January 23 Canadian Experience Class 4,000 527
January 8 Canadian Experience Class 1,350 542
January 7 Provincial Nominee Program 471 793

Impact of CRS Adjustments

In March 2025, IRCC eliminated the additional CRS points previously awarded for arranged employment supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This policy shift led to a significant drop in CRS scores for many candidates, with reductions ranging from 50 to 200 points . The change aims to level the playing field for applicants without job offers, emphasizing other factors such as language proficiency, education, and work experience.​

Overview of Express Entry Draws in 2025

So far in 2025, IRCC has issued a total of 31,929 ITAs through various Express Entry draws. These include category-based selections focusing on French language proficiency and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates. Notably, a draw on March 21 invited 7,500 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 379, highlighting IRCC’s commitment to attracting French-speaking immigrants.​

Require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

April 29, 2025
April 29, 2025

Manitoba Issues 27 Invitations in Latest Draw Under Strategic Recruitment Initiative

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

On April 17, 2025, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) held a new Expression of Interest (EOI) draw under the Skilled Worker Overseas stream, issuing 27 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to eligible candidates. The minimum EOI score required for this invitation round was 621.

Importantly, only candidates who were invited directly by the MPNP under a Strategic Recruitment Initiative were considered in this draw.

See below details of this draw:

  • Draw Date: April 17, 2025

  • Stream: Skilled Worker Overseas

  • Number of LAAs Issued: 27

  • Minimum EOI Score: 621

  • Eligibility Criteria: Candidates invited directly by MPNP under a Strategic Recruitment Initiative

This draw reflects Manitoba’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled workers from abroad who can contribute to the province’s labor market and economic growth. Candidates invited in this draw demonstrated strong potential to integrate into Manitoba’s workforce and communities.

What is a Strategic Recruitment Initiative?

Strategic Recruitment Initiatives are special outreach programs conducted by MPNP in partnership with employers or through targeted recruitment missions. Candidates selected under these initiatives typically have strong ties to Manitoba or have been identified as filling high-demand occupations in the province.

This pathway allows the province to directly engage with potential immigrants who align with Manitoba’s current economic and demographic needs, ensuring a more effective immigration strategy.

To be eligible for consideration under a Strategic Recruitment Initiative, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Be between the ages of 21 and 45, unless a specific exception is made by the employer.

  • Have completed post-secondary education as required by the employer and the occupation. In certain pilot programs, on-the-job training may be accepted as a substitute.

  • Possess at least two years of full-time work experience in the past five years in an occupation related to the job being offered.

  • Demonstrate adequate language proficiency according to the skill level of the occupation:

    • For jobs in TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupations: A minimum language proficiency of CLB 5 in all language abilities (English or French) is required.

    • For jobs in TEER 4 or 5 occupations: A minimum language proficiency of CLB 4 in all language abilities is required.

  • All candidates must score a minimum of 60 points on the MPNP’s assessment grid, which is based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language skills.

Priority is given to candidates who are willing to settle outside the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region.

Also applicants who have significant connections to other provinces such as previous employment or education outside Manitoba may be considered less likely to remain in the province and could face a higher risk of refusal.

Understanding the Skilled Worker Overseas Stream

The Skilled Worker Overseas stream is designed for individuals who have skills and training in Manitoba’s in-demand occupations. Candidates are assessed based on factors such as work experience, education, language proficiency, and their connection to Manitoba, including close family ties, previous education or work experience in the province, or an invitation under a Strategic Recruitment Initiative.​

Recent MPNP Draws Overview

In 2025, Manitoba has continued to issue LAAs through various streams to meet its labor market needs. For instance, on February 20, 2025, the province issued 41 LAAs, with 22 invitations extended under a strategic recruitment initiative in the Skilled Worker Overseas stream, requiring a minimum score of 711.

Manitoba’s consistent draws highlight the province’s commitment to attracting skilled immigrants who can contribute to its economic development.

Do you require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

April 29, 2025
April 29, 2025

Alberta Issues New Invitations Through Targeted Immigration Pathways

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) has recently invited 165 candidates through four of its targeted streams aimed at addressing labour shortages in key sectors of the province’s economy.

Overview of AAIP Draws (April 11–22)

Between April 11 and 22, the AAIP conducted several draws across different immigration pathways, each featuring unique cut-off scores and numbers of invitations issued.

Draw date Worker stream / pathway Minimum score of invited candidates Number of invitations issued
22 April, 2025 Alberta Express Entry Stream – Accelerated Tech Pathway 71 22
17 April, 2025 Alberta Express Entry Stream – Law Enforcement Pathway 49 2
15 April, 2025 Tourism and Hospitality Stream 73 33
11 April, 2025 Alberta Opportunity Stream 77 108

Among the notable selections, this round includes the first draw of the year for the Tourism and Hospitality stream, and only the second for the Accelerated Tech and Law Enforcement pathways in 2025. The April 11 draw also marked the first general selection this year under the Alberta Opportunity Stream, which had previously focused on fields such as aviation and construction.

To apply through AAIP or other Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), candidates must first submit an EOI. If selected, they receive an invitation to apply for a provincial nomination. Upon approval, nominees in base streams can apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Those in enhanced streams aligned with Express Entry receive 600 additional CRS points, significantly improving their chances of receiving an invitation for permanent residency in future federal draws.

Require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

April 22, 2025
April 22, 2025

New BC PNP Draw Targets Entrepreneurs

Author By EUIC Admin Categories Provincial nomination

Dear future neighbour,

The British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) conducted its most recent draw on April 15, 2025, issuing invitations to 5 entrepreneurs under the Entrepreneur Immigration Base stream. Applicants required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 115 to be considered.​

See below details of latest BC PNP draw:

  • Draw Date: April 15, 2025

  • Category: Entrepreneur Immigration – Base

  • Number of Invitations: 5

  • Minimum CRS Score: 115​

This draw is part of BC’s strategic focus on attracting skilled individuals who can deliver both immediate value and long-term economic impact to the province. The province is managing over 5,200 pending applications and more than 10,000 individuals registered in the system, making each nomination highly competitive.

Changes in BC PNP for 2025:

  • Reduced Nomination Quota: The federal nomination cap has been reduced to 4,000 spots, down from 8,000 in 2024. This means only top-tier candidates aligned with provincial needs will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

  • Temporary Closure of International Post-Graduate (IPG) Stream: Applications submitted before September 1, 2024, will be processed in 2025. Applications between September 1, 2024, and January 7, 2025, are waitlisted. New IPG applications are currently paused due to overwhelming demand.​

Priority Immigration Streams for 2025:

  • Healthcare Immigration Stream: Focused on attracting doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals to address critical labor shortages in the healthcare sector.

  • Entrepreneur Stream: Encourages entrepreneurs who can launch or scale businesses, create jobs, and promote regional innovation.

  • Selective High-Impact Draws for Skilled Workers: Targeted draws for skilled workers in critical sectors to meet labor market demands

Require assistance with securing a visitor visa for Canada, seeking professional aid in submitting a visa or work permit application, crafting an Expression of Interest, setting up an express entry or provincial nomination profile, preparing your application after receiving an invitation to apply, or simply reviewing your self-prepared application? Schedule a consultation or reach out via email at info@eseumohimmigration.com

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