Temporary Public Policy Opens Door for Work Permit Extensions in Manitoba

Recently, the province of Manitoba has announced that it will begin accepting applications under a temporary public policy. This will allow prospective PNP candidates to apply for a Manitoba-specific work permit extension.

As of April 22, 2025, eligible individuals whose work permits have expired or are about to expire within the next 45 days can apply for a two-year extension with the help of a Support Letter issued by the Manitoba government.

This initiative stems from the federal announcement made on April 15, 2025, to facilitate work permits for potential nominees. Manitoba’S implementation is designed to ensure continuity for skilled workers already integrated into the province’s communities.

Who Is Eligible?

This temporary public policy will remain in effect until December 31, 2025. It applies to individuals who are prospective candidates for the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program and who meet at least one of the following conditions:

• Currently holds a valid work permit set to expire in 2025.

• Previously held a work permit that was valid on May 7, 2024, and has since expired, and have applied for:
  
  • New work permit under section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
  • Extension to remain in Canada as a temporary resident under section 181 of IRPR.
  • Restoration of temporary resident status under section 182 of IRPR.

• Were authorized to work on May 7, 2024, under paragraph 186(u) of IRPR and have since applied for a new work permit or an extension of their temporary resident status.

Additional Eligibility Requirements

In addition to these scenarios, candidates must meet all of the following conditions:

• Have a valid Expression of Interest (EOI) profile with the Manitoba PNP as of January 15, 2025, and must still have a valid profile at the time of application.
• Have been residing in Manitoba prior to January 15, 2025, and must still be living in the province.
• Currently be employed by a Manitoba-based employer willing to provide a letter of employment.
• Must intend to establish permanent residency in Manitoba.

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How to Apply?

Starting April 22, 2025, eligible individuals can apply online for a Support Letter from the Manitoba government. The application must be accompanied by:

• A current letter of employment from a Manitoba employer
• A copy of their work permit, authorization to work, or evidence of a previously valid work permit as of May 7, 2024, with proof of a submitted restoration application
• A copy of their EOI profile.

Note: Applications that are incomplete or missing documents will not be approved. While Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept applications until December 31, 2025, Manitoba may limit the number of Support Letters issued, so timely application is strongly advised.

What Is the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)?

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is an immigration initiative designed to attract skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs to settle and contribute to Manitoba’s economy and communities.

Under the MPNP, the province nominates individuals for permanent residency based on labor market needs and the applicant's likelihood of successfully integrating into life in Manitoba. MPNP serves as a crucial tool in addressing labor shortages.

Streams of the Manitoba PNP

The MPNP offers several immigration streams, allowing a diverse range of candidates to apply based on their qualifications and ties to Manitoba:

Skilled Worker in Manitoba Stream: This is for individuals currently working in Manitoba with a job offer from a local employer. This stream is ideal for temporary foreign workers and international graduates who have already established themselves in the province.

Skilled Worker Overseas Stream: This is aimed at individuals outside of Canada who demonstrate a strong connection to Manitoba through family, work experience, or past education in the province.

International Education Stream: It is designed for international students who have graduated from a Manitoba post-secondary institution and wish to stay and work in the province. It includes pathways for internships, employment, and entrepreneurship.

Business Investor Stream: This targets individuals who intend to establish or invest in a business in Manitoba. Applicants must demonstrate business experience and financial capacity.

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Conclusion

Manitoba’s decision to implement the Temporary Public Policy for work permit extensions demonstrates the province’s commitment to supporting skilled foreign workers who are already contributing to its economy and want to apply for Canada Permanent Residency (Canada PR).

Prospective nominees are encouraged to act promptly, as this opportunity is time-limited and subject to caps on the number of support letters issued. For more information and to apply, eligible individuals should visit the official Manitoba immigration website starting April 22, 2025.

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Read More: How Canadian Provinces Are Updating Nominee Criteria?

Source: immigratemanitoba.com

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