Manitoba Launches New PNP Work Permit Extension Policy 2025

Key Highlights: Manitoba’s Temporary Work Permit Support Policy

• Applications open April 22, 2025, for Support Letters under Manitoba’s temporary public policy.
• Eligible individuals may receive a two-year Manitoba-specific work permit extension.
• The policy applies to prospective Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) candidates whose current or previous work permits meet specific criteria.
• The policy is in effect until December 31, 2025.
• Applicants must provide proof of employment, a valid Expression of Interest (EOI) profile, and other supporting documents.
• Applications must be submitted via Manitoba’s official online portal.

New Temporary Public Policy for Work Permit Extensions in Manitoba – What You Need to Know

If you’re a skilled worker in Manitoba whose work permit has expired recently or is about to expire soon, there’s some promising news for you. Starting April 22, 2025, the Province of Manitoba will begin accepting applications for Support Letters under a newly introduced temporary public policy. This initiative is aimed at helping prospective Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) candidates extend their stay and work in the province while they complete their journey to permanent residence.

Let’s walk through the details of this public policy, who qualifies, and how you can apply without missing a beat.

What’s This All About?

In a nutshell, Manitoba is offering eligible individuals a way to apply for a two-year Manitoba-specific work permit. This is a big step forward for those who have already shown interest in settling in the province but are stuck in limbo due to expired or soon-to-expire work permits.

The policy is temporary and will expire on December 31, 2025. Until then, eligible candidates can apply for a Support Letter – a document that backs their application for a work permit extension via Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Who’s Eligible? Let’s Break Down the Criteria

To apply under this public policy, you must fall into one of the following categories:

• You have a valid work permit that will expire at some point in 2025, or
• Your work permit was still valid on May 7, 2024, but has since expired, and you’ve applied for a new one under Section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, or
• You’ve applied to extend your temporary resident status under Section 181 after your May 7, 2024 permit expired, or
• You’ve requested restoration of your temporary resident status under Section 182 after your permit expired, or
• You were authorized to work under Section 186(u) on May 7, 2024, and your work permit extension is still pending or was approved, and you’ve applied for a new permit under Section 200, or
• You were authorized under Section 186(u) and have applied for an extension of your temporary resident status under Section 181.

But that’s not all. You must also meet all of the following conditions:

• You had a valid MPNP Expression of Interest (EOI) profile on January 15, 2025 and still have one at the time of application.
• You’ve been living in Manitoba since before January 15, 2025 and continue to reside there.
• You’re currently working for a Manitoba-based employer who’s prepared to provide a letter of employment.
• You genuinely intend to make Manitoba your permanent home.

When Can You Apply?

The application window opens on April 22, 2025. But here’s a crucial point: you can only apply for a Support Letter if your current work permit has already expired or is set to expire within the next 45 days from the date of your application. So, keep an eye on the calendar!

How to Apply for a Manitoba Support Letter

If you tick all the boxes mentioned above, you can submit your application through Manitoba’s official online portal: https://twpe.gov.mb.ca/en-US/. The online form will be active starting April 22, 2025.

To ensure your application is considered, make sure you provide all the required documents. Incomplete submissions won’t make it past the queue. Here’s what you’ll need:

• A signed letter of employment from your current Manitoba employer*
• A copy of your current work permit, proof of your authorisation to work, or evidence that you held a valid work permit on May 7, 2024 and have since applied for a restoration under Section 182
• A copy of your Expression of Interest (EOI) profile

*If you’re applying under the condition that your work permit was valid on May 7, 2024 and you’ve since applied for restoration under Section 182, your job offer must be current and valid.

Important Dates to Remember

• Application Start Date: April 22, 2025
• Policy End Date: December 31, 2025

Even though the policy is open until the end of the year, Manitoba has indicated that it may limit the number of Support Letters issued under this policy. So if you’re eligible, don’t leave it too late! And If you’re yet to apply for EOI but eligible and want to Calculate mpnp score

Why This Matters

This policy is a real lifeline for many skilled workers in Manitoba who are in a bit of a grey zone with their immigration status. By extending work permits, it not only supports individuals and families striving for permanent residency but also helps local employers retain valuable talent in a tight labour market.

It’s another sign that Manitoba is taking a proactive approach to workforce stability and immigrant retention. By providing a clear path for eligible workers to maintain legal status and employment, the province is aligning its immigration strategy with the real-time needs of its economy.

For employers, this policy offers the opportunity to retain trained, experienced staff who are already contributing to their businesses and communities. For workers, it provides a much-needed bridge to ensure continuity of employment and legal status while pursuing permanent residency through the MPNP.

Final Tips for Applicants

If you’re planning to apply, here are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Check your eligibility carefully. You must meet both the work permit conditions and the ongoing residency and employment requirements.

• Prepare your documents in advance. Don’t wait until your permit is about to expire—gather your letter of employment, EOI profile, and status documents ahead of time.

• Apply within the 45-day window. Applications will only be considered if your permit has expired or is set to expire within 45 days of submission.

• Monitor communications. After submitting your application, keep an eye on your email for any updates or requests for additional documents.

• Be truthful and accurate. Misrepresenting your status or documents can lead to delays, rejections, or even future ineligibility.

In Summary

Manitoba’s Temporary Work Permit Support Policy is a timely and compassionate move aimed at supporting skilled workers who are already contributing to the province and are on their path to becoming permanent residents. If you meet the eligibility criteria, this is your chance to secure continued legal status and employment while your MPNP application progresses.

Don’t delay—April 22 is here, and the clock is ticking. Visit https://twpe.gov.mb.ca/en-US/ to get started and make sure your future in Manitoba stays on track.