**MPNP Pauses Employer Stream Until Aug 2025: What to Know**

MPNP Temporarily Pauses Employer Services Applications Until August 2025

If you’re planning to apply for permanent residency through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) using the Employer Services stream, there’s an important update you’ll want to know about. As of July 4, 2025, the province has temporarily paused new application intake under this stream. But don’t worry — it’s not a permanent change. Manitoba plans to reopen the Employer Services intake on August 5, 2025.

Let’s walk through what this means for applicants, employers, and how you can prepare in the meantime.

Key Highlights

• MPNP has paused Employer Services applications starting July 4, 2025
• New applications will be accepted again starting August 5, 2025
• This pause affects only new submissions — ongoing applications remain unaffected
• Foreign nationals must wait until August 5 to submit new employer-supported applications
• The Employer Services stream connects skilled foreign workers with Manitoba employers
• Eligible candidates must meet age, work experience, language, and job offer requirements

Why Has Manitoba Paused Employer Services Applications?

The Manitoba government hasn’t provided a detailed explanation for the temporary pause. However, pauses like this typically allow immigration authorities to catch up on processing, reassess program priorities, or improve administrative systems. The good news is that this break is only temporary — new applications will be accepted again starting August 5, 2025.

In the meantime, if your employer was planning to support your nomination during the pause (between July 4 and August 5), you’ll need to wait until the intake reopens. This delay doesn’t affect candidates whose employers already submitted applications before the pause date.

What Is the MPNP Employer Services Stream?

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) offers several immigration pathways tailored to meet the province’s labour market needs. One of the most employer-driven options is the Employer Services stream.

This stream allows Manitoba employers to recruit and retain international talent for full-time, long-term positions. It’s especially useful for employers in high-demand sectors who struggle to find qualified Canadian workers.

How It Works

Eligible foreign nationals can receive a provincial nomination with support from a qualified Manitoba employer. That nomination significantly boosts their chances of gaining Canadian permanent residence — especially if they’re also in the federal Express Entry system.

Currently, the MPNP is giving priority to overseas candidates with confirmed job offers from approved Manitoba employers. That makes this stream a valuable opportunity for skilled workers looking to make a permanent move to Manitoba.

Who Is Eligible for Employer Services Support?

To access this pathway, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements set by the MPNP. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll need:

• Age: Typically between 21 and 45 years old (though this may vary by employer)
• Work Experience: At least 2 years of relevant experience within the last 5 years
• Job Offer: A full-time, long-term offer that meets Manitoba’s employment and wage standards
• Language Proficiency:
  • CLB 5 for positions classified as TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
  • CLB 4 for positions under TEER 4 or 5
• Education/Training: Post-secondary education or relevant training for the job
• Licensure: If the occupation is regulated in Manitoba, the candidate must obtain proper certification or licensure

Not familiar with the TEER system? It’s part of Canada’s National Occupation Classification (NOC) framework and helps categorize jobs by required training and experience. TEER 0 represents the highest skill levels, while TEER 5 includes lower-skilled positions.

What Employers Need to Know

This stream doesn’t just place demands on applicants — Manitoba employers also need to meet certain criteria to participate. They must demonstrate a legitimate need for foreign talent and provide job offers that align with provincial standards for fair wages and working conditions.

Employers also work closely with the MPNP to ensure that the recruitment process is transparent and meets program objectives.

What This Pause Means for You

If you’re a foreign worker with a prospective job offer in Manitoba, the pause means you’ll need to delay your application until August 5, 2025. While that might feel like a setback, it’s a great time to double-check your eligibility, gather your documentation, and prepare a strong, complete application.

For employers, this is also a good opportunity to review current and future hiring needs and ensure they’re ready to support applications once the intake resumes.

Next Steps: What You Can Do Now

While you’re waiting for the Employer Services stream to reopen, here are a few things you can do:

• Use an MPNP points calculator to check your score and see where you stand
• Work with your employer to finalize your job offer and confirm details
• Improve your language test results if needed
• Gather all documents for your application, including education, work experience, and licensure

If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible for MPNP or want help getting started, take advantage of our free online assessment tool:

Assess Your Eligibility for MPNP

Final Thoughts

While the temporary pause on Employer Services applications may require a bit of patience, it’s no reason to lose momentum. Manitoba continues to welcome skilled foreign workers, and the Employer Services stream remains a top-tier pathway for those looking to build a life in this welcoming prairie province.

Set your calendar for August 5, 2025 — and in the meantime, get your ducks in a row so you’re ready to apply as soon as the intake reopens.

Want to learn more about other immigration options in Manitoba? Check out our guide to the Manitoba PNP and explore which stream might be the best fit for you.