Skilled Worker Program
Frequently Asked Questions
Qualifications for The Skilled Worker Program
Applications will not be considered if they do not meet minimum qualifications.In order to qualify you must meet basic eligibity.
A language test result is required, even if English or French is your first language. Must be General IELTS, CELPIP or TEF/TCF that was taken within the last 24 months.
Due to time constraints, we are unable to give an evaluation of your qualifications before you send your completed application. Please carefully read our minimum qualifications before deciding whether to apply.
Due to the very small size of our program, we are only able to choose and support a small percentage of received applications. We choose applicants based on minimum qualifications, occupational experience, and ability to adapt to climate, culture, and genuine intention on living and working in West Central Manitoba.
We accept applications from citizens of any country, single or as a family unit.
Although anyone is able to apply, those with experience in in-demand occupations have a much greater chance of selection.
Applying to the Skilled Worker Program
After you send your application online, you will receive a notification stating we have received your application. It can sometimes take 30 to 60 days, or more, to review your application. Please note that due to a large volume of applications, only those selected for further review will be contacted.
The length of the entire process depends on many things, including variable processing times at MPNP and federal levels.
There is no cost to apply for our support. If you are invited for an exploratory visit, all travel and accommodation cost would be your responsibility. There are other costs at the MPNP and Federal levels for their application processing.
Our program continues to accept applications. There is no deadline by which to apply, however minimum qualifications and program criteria change on occasion.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and would like to apply for the West Central Manitoba Immigration Initiative, you can find forms and information here.
*** We are not affiliated with any Immigration Representative nor do we give preferential treatment to applicants who have hired an Immigration Representative. However, if you do choose to have your paperwork completed by an Immigration Representative, please refer to http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/information/representative/index.asp for information on making an informed choice. ***
Exploratory Visits to Canada
What is the purpose of an exploratory visit?
There are a several reasons for an exploratory visit. If you already have formal support from us, please contact us regarding whether an exploratory visit is necessary in your process.
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During the visit, you will prepare for your future MPNP application by gathering needed information and impressions.
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If you apply to MPNP with our support, you will be expected to live in West Central Manitoba on your arrival. An exploratory visit gives you a chance to determine whether our community is the right location to settle your family in the future.
Please note that although many exploratory visitors seek future employment while they are on their exploratory visit, the main purpose of the visit is not to secure employment. A successful visit is one in which you are able to proceed to the next stage of your permanent residence application.
Arriving in Canada
Arriving in Canada
We will help you arrange temporary accommodation.
As an applicant who has been supported through the immigration process by the West Central Manitoba Immigration Initiative, you have declared your intention to live and work here when you arrive. We will do everything we can to assist you in your successful settlement here.
When you arrive, you will receive information ahead of time that will help you arrange some things in advance. Once you are in Manitoba, you will receive an intake appointment with “Westman Immigrant Services”, an office who will help you with all you will need including registering children for school, tax forms, health insurance application, permanent accommodation, English classes and any other questions you may have.