Summary of draws to the end of March 2025: Manitoba, British Columbia and Prince Edward Island focus on local and qualified candidates

The end of March 2025 saw several provincial immigration draws aimed at selecting skilled workers and locally established residents. Manitoba, British Columbia, and Prince Edward Island each targeted specific profiles based on their economic and demographic priorities. Here's an overview of the results and trends from these draws.
Prince Edward Island draw of March 20, 2025: 124 invitations for established candidates

The Prince Edward Island Provincial Nominee Program (PEI PNP) issued 124 invitations under its Labour and Express Entry stream. This draw focused on candidates who have been working and living in the province for at least one year, particularly in priority sectors with high economic impact. This approach demonstrates the importance placed on retaining local talent and the continued contribution of established workers.
Manitoba: Draw #241 of March 21, 2025 – Promoting local post-secondary education

Manitoba issued 108 Letters of Advice to Apply, distributed as follows:
- 101 for the Skilled Workers in Manitoba stream, targeting candidates (or their spouses) who have completed post-secondary studies in the province.
- 7 for the Skilled Workers Abroad component, only for profiles directly invited as part of strategic recruitment initiatives.
- 23 candidates among the invited candidates held a valid Express Entry profile.
The minimum score required for skilled workers in Manitoba was 844, while that for workers abroad was 705.
Manitoba therefore continues to favor profiles with a strong connection to the province, particularly through education or locally regulated and supervised professional experience.
British Columbia: March 18, 2025 draw

British Columbia conducted a draw on March 18, 2025, issuing fewer than 5 invitations in each of the following two streams:
- Base: Minimum score required of 123.
- Regional: Minimum score also 123.
These highly targeted draws, often reserved for priority profiles in professions in demand or linked to rural areas, demonstrate the province's ongoing commitment to meeting its specific needs, even in small numbers.
Conclusion
Canadian provinces continue to focus their selections on candidates who are already established locally and have a direct connection to their job market or education system. This demonstrates a commitment to the long-term and rapid integration of newcomers. If you are considering your immigration project or want to maximize your opportunities in these programs, schedule an appointment with our regulated Canadian immigration consultant for personalized support.
Congratulations to everyone invited to these draws! Your journey to Canada has reached another important milestone.