Certain candidates in the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) may be eligible for province-specific work permits of up to two years to help them maintain their immigration status.
Manitoba to Offer Special Work Permits for MPNP Candidates at Risk of Losing Status
Starting April 22, 2025, Manitoba will begin accepting applications for special province-specific work permits valid for up to two years. These permits are intended for certain Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) candidates whose work permits are expiring or have already expired in 2024 or 2025, and who are at risk of losing their immigration status.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, an MPNP candidate must:
- Hold a work permit expiring within 45 days, or have held one that expired in 2024 or 2025;
- Have continuously resided in Manitoba since before January 15, 2025;
- Have had a valid MPNP Expression of Interest (EOI) profile on January 15, 2025, and still maintain a valid profile;
- Present a letter of employment from their current Manitoba employer;
- Meet additional federal criteria under the IRCC’s temporary public policy.
Candidates who already received a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) from MPNP are not eligible.
Application Process
Eligible individuals must:
- Apply online to MPNP for a Support Letter (available from April 22, 2025).
- Submit the letter with their work permit application to IRCC.
Applications will be accepted until December 31, 2025, when the federal temporary policy ends. Required documents include a valid or expired work permit and proof of employment, among other federal conditions.
Federal Requirements
Under IRCC’s temporary public policy (launched August 11, 2024), candidates may be eligible if they:
- Hold a valid work permit;
- Had a valid permit on May 7, 2024 (now expired) and applied for restoration or extension;
- Maintained status on May 7, 2024, with a pending or approved extension application.
Rationale
This policy was introduced to prevent gaps in work authorization for MPNP candidates, especially as they await permanent residence. Bridging Open Work Permits are not available to PNP candidates without a PR application, putting many at risk—particularly those with expiring PGWPs or who cannot obtain new LMIA-based permits due to processing moratoriums.
“This is good news for our economy, businesses, and communities,” said Manitoba Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino. “We’re helping workers and families stay in Manitoba while contributing to the province’s growth.”
Special work permits will be available for Manitoba PNP candidates | CIC News
