Special Work Permits Will Be Available for Manitoba PNP Candidates
In a move to bolster the province’s workforce and support immigration goals, the Manitoba government has introduced a new temporary policy. Starting April 22, 2025, eligible candidates under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) can apply for a two-year work permit extension. This initiative, announced by Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino on April 15, 2025, aims to help workers, their families, and the local economy thrive.
The policy targets MPNP candidates whose work permits expired in 2024 or will expire in 2025. By extending their work permits, the province hopes to retain skilled workers who are already contributing to Manitoba’s communities and economy. This extension is specific to Manitoba, allowing candidates to continue living and working in the province while they pursue permanent residency.
One of the key benefits of this policy is its streamlined process. Unlike standard immigration procedures, applicants will not need to go through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process. This simplifies the application process and reduces the administrative burden on both workers and employers.
To qualify for the work permit extension, candidates must meet specific criteria. They must have had a valid MPNP Expression of Interest (EOI) profile on or before January 15, 2025, and maintain an active profile at the time of application. Additionally, they must be currently employed in Manitoba and intend to establish themselves as permanent residents in the province. Applications will only be accepted if the candidate’s work permit has already expired or will expire within the next 45 days.
Employers in Manitoba also stand to benefit from this policy. By allowing workers to extend their permits, businesses can retain skilled employees without the need for additional immigration processes. This stability is expected to support local industries and contribute to the province’s economic growth.
It’s important to note that this policy does not guarantee permanent residency. The work permit extension is designed to provide a legal pathway for candidates to continue working in Manitoba while their MPNP or permanent residency applications are being processed. The MPNP has also announced that it will prioritize applicants with expiring or expired work permits during this temporary period.
For those interested in applying, the process begins with submitting an online form for a support letter from Manitoba. This form will be available on the official Immigration Manitoba website starting April 22, 2025. Only candidates who meet all the eligibility criteria and timing conditions will be able to apply.
This temporary public policy is set to run until December 31, 2025, providing a critical lifeline for MPNP candidates facing expiring work permits. By allowing them to remain in Manitoba, the province is ensuring that these individuals can continue to contribute to their communities and workplaces while they await the outcome of their residency applications.
Manitoba’s New Temporary Work Permit Policy: What You Need to Know
Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
The Manitoba government has outlined specific eligibility criteria for candidates interested in applying for the two-year work permit extension. To qualify, candidates must have had a valid MPNP Expression of Interest (EOI) profile on or before January 15, 2025, and maintain an active profile at the time of application. Additionally, applicants must be currently employed in Manitoba and intend to establish themselves as permanent residents in the province.
Applications will only be considered if the candidate’s work permit has already expired or will expire within the next 45 days. Importantly, if an EOI profile was valid as of January 15, 2025, but has since expired, candidates may create a new profile to remain eligible for the program.
Streamlined Application Process
The application process for the work permit extension involves submitting an online form for a support letter from Manitoba. This form will be available on the official Immigration Manitoba website starting April 22, 2025. Only candidates who meet all the eligibility criteria and timing conditions will be able to apply.
Additional Important Details
It’s important to note that this policy does not guarantee permanent residency. The work permit extension is designed to provide a legal pathway for candidates to continue working in Manitoba while their MPNP or permanent residency applications are being processed.
Employers in Manitoba also stand to benefit from this policy. By allowing workers to extend their permits, businesses can retain skilled employees without the need for additional immigration processes. This stability is expected to support local industries and contribute to the province’s economic growth.
The MPNP has also announced that it will prioritize applicants with expiring or expired work permits during this temporary period. This ensures that those who are already contributing to Manitoba’s workforce can continue to do so without interruption.
Key Benefits of the Policy
The new policy offers several key benefits for both workers and employers. For workers, it provides a streamlined process to extend their work permits without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This simplifies the application process and reduces the administrative burden on both workers and employers.
For employers, the policy helps retain skilled employees whose work permits would otherwise expire, ensuring continuity and stability in the workforce. This is particularly important for industries that rely on international workers to fill labor shortages.
Temporary Public Policy Details
This temporary public policy is set to run until December 31, 2025, providing a critical lifeline for MPNP candidates facing expiring work permits. By allowing them to remain in Manitoba, the province is ensuring that these individuals can continue to contribute to their communities and workplaces while they await the outcome of their residency applications.
In summary, this temporary policy provides a crucial support mechanism for MPNP candidates, allowing many who faced expiring work permits in 2024 or 2025 to remain employed and settled in Manitoba while pursuing permanent residency.
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Conclusion
Manitoba’s new temporary work permit policy offers a vital opportunity for MPNP candidates to extend their stay and continue contributing to the province’s economy. By streamlining the application process and eliminating the need for an LMIA, the government has made it easier for skilled workers to remain in Manitoba while pursuing permanent residency. This policy not only benefits workers but also supports local businesses by retaining talent and ensuring workforce stability. With its focus on simplicity and efficiency, this initiative aligns with Manitoba’s immigration goals and strengthens the province’s ability to attract and retain skilled professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible for the two-year work permit extension?
Eligible candidates must have had a valid MPNP Expression of Interest (EOI) profile on or before January 15, 2025, maintain an active profile, be currently employed in Manitoba, and intend to establish permanent residency in the province. Applications are only accepted if the work permit has expired or will expire within 45 days.
How can I apply for the work permit extension?
Applications can be submitted by completing an online form for a support letter from Manitoba, available on the Immigration Manitoba website starting April 22, 2025. Only candidates meeting all eligibility criteria and timing conditions will be able to apply.
What are the benefits of this policy for workers?
The policy provides a streamlined process to extend work permits without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), reducing administrative burdens. It allows workers to continue living and working in Manitoba while pursuing permanent residency.
How does this policy benefit employers?
Employers can retain skilled employees whose work permits would otherwise expire, ensuring workforce continuity and stability. This helps support local industries and contributes to Manitoba’s economic growth.
Does this policy guarantee permanent residency?
No, the work permit extension does not guarantee permanent residency. It provides a legal pathway for candidates to continue working in Manitoba while their MPNP or permanent residency applications are processed.
How long is this policy in effect?
The temporary public policy is set to run until December 31, 2025, providing a lifeline for MPNP candidates with expiring or expired work permits during this period.
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