Canada’s sixth-largest state by size Manitoba has closed the PR pathway for international graduates, effective immediately. The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) has retired the Career Employment Pathway (CEP) of its International Education Stream, effective immediately. CEP candidates with active EOIs and 6+ months of Manitoba work experience may be considered for selection under the Skilled Worker in Manitoba Pathway. The MPNP announced this update on its official news webpage on June 11, 2026.As to what this means for former CEP candidates wishing to settle in Manitoba, it means that they will need to pursue other pathways to permanent residence. Moving forward, candidates with at least six months of in-province work experience can be considered for selection under the Skilled Worker in Manitoba pathway. This change will allow eligible students who graduated from a Manitoba designated learning institution and are currently working in the province to be prioritized in targeted Expression of Interest (EOI) draws.In the update on its website, Manitoba said that with CEP closure, it aims to establish “clear, consistent criteria for all Manitoba graduates,” and better align education, work experience, and labour market needs. The notice from the State notes that the Graduate Internship Pathway will continue to remain in place for eligible master’s and doctoral graduates who complete a Mitacs internship.
Important Update for Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program – International Education Stream (IES) – Career Employment Pathway (CEP) Candidates
International students and graduates make a vital contribution to Manitoba’s economy and communities. Retaining Manitoba‑educated graduates is a key priority.The Manitoba government is changing how Manitoba graduates are selected to improve alignment between education, work experience and labour‑market needs.Candidates with active Expression of Interest (EOI) profiles under the CEP and who have gained at least six months of work experience in Manitoba are invited to transition into the Skilled Worker in Manitoba pathway, where they can be considered in future EOI draws alongside other skilled workers on a priority basis.
What This Means for International Graduates
This change brings important benefits:* Clear, consistent criteria for all Manitoba graduates* Targeted EOI draws that prioritize Manitoba graduates* Greater emphasis on Manitoba work experience* Graduates who studied in Manitoba and are working here will continue to be strongly positioned for selection.
What Has Not Changed
The Graduate Internship Pathway (GIP) remains in place for eligible master’s and doctoral graduates who complete a Mitacs internship.Manitoba is committed to attracting and retaining international students whose education, skills and experience align with labour market needs.Next Steps for CEP CandidatesTo be considered in future EOI draws, individuals with active IES‑CEP EOI profiles are encouraged to:* Review their eligibility for the Skilled Worker in Manitoba Pathway: https://immigratemanitoba.com/mpnp/skilled-worker/swm/eligibility/.* If eligible, update their profile as soon as possible. EOI SWM draws will continue on a regular basis and a current profile will be required to be considered in future EOI draws.* Ensure all connections to Manitoba have been declared, including completed post-secondary education in Manitoba.
