Manitoba Extends Work Permits by Two Years for MPNP Candidates in 2025
On April 15, 2025, Manitoba announced a game-changing temporary public policy to support temporary foreign workers aiming to make the province their permanent home. Starting April 22, 2025, eligible Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) candidates can apply for a two-year, Manitoba-specific work permit extension, ensuring they can continue contributing to the province’s economy while pursuing permanent residency. Here’s what you need to know about this exciting opportunity.
Who Qualifies for the Work Permit Extension?
This policy targets MPNP candidates facing expiring or recently expired work permits. To be eligible, you must meet one of the following work authorization scenarios:
Hold a valid work permit that expires in 2025, or have a permit that expired in 2024 or 2025.
Were authorized to work under paragraph 186(u) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations as of May 7, 2024, with a pending or approved work permit extension or restoration application under section 181 or 182.
Additional Manitoba Requirements (all must be met):
Had a valid MPNP Expression of Interest (EOI) profile on January 15, 2025, and maintain an active profile.
Have a letter of employment or valid job offer from a Manitoba employer.
Intend to establish permanent residency in Manitoba.
Applications are accepted until December 31, 2025, but Manitoba may limit the number of support letters issued, so early application is key.
How to Apply
Obtain a Support Letter: Starting April 22, 2025, eligible candidates can apply for a Support Letter from Manitoba via an online submission form on the Immigration Manitoba website (immigratemanitoba.com). You must submit:
A letter of employment or valid job offer from your current Manitoba employer.
A copy of your current or expired work permit, or proof of work authorization as of May 7, 2024 (for restoration applicants).
Apply for the Work Permit: Use the Support Letter to apply for a two-year, Manitoba-specific work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Employers pay a $230 filing fee to initiate the process.
Timing: Apply only when your work permit has expired or is within 45 days of expiring. Restoration applicants may also qualify with a valid job offer.
Why This Matters
Manitoba’s policy addresses critical labor shortages while supporting workers integrated into local communities. Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino emphasized, “By allowing eligible candidates to extend their work permits, we’re helping more Manitoba workers and families to continue building their lives in Manitoba.” This follows Manitoba’s successful 2024 negotiation to extend work status for 6,700 temporary residents, showcasing the province’s commitment to retaining skilled talent. The policy also aligns with the MPNP’s history of filling labor gaps in sectors like healthcare, trades, and technology since 1998.
Key Details
Duration: The temporary policy runs until December 31, 2025.
Employer Support: Employers play a crucial role by providing job offers and supporting applications, benefiting businesses facing staffing challenges.
Labor Market Impact: Manitoba’s lower-than-average unemployment rate and ongoing labor needs, particularly in in-demand occupations, drove this initiative. Unlike provinces like Ontario, Manitoba’s unique labor market makes this policy viable.
Next Steps
If you’re an MPNP candidate with an expiring or expired work permit, act fast! Visit www.onecanadavisa.com. For inquiries, contact JM Immigration Consultancy 1-416-904-3815.
Source: Manitoba Government News Release
