In a move that supports both the local economy and Manitoba’s growing communities, the Manitoba government has announced a two-year, Manitoba-specific work permit extension for eligible candidates under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP).
The announcement was made by Labour and Immigration Minister Malaya Marcelino on April 15, 2025.
“By allowing eligible candidates to extend their work permits, we’re helping more Manitoba workers and families to continue building their lives in Manitoba,” said Marcelino. “This is good news for our economy, businesses and communities across Manitoba.”
What’s New?
Under a temporary public policy, starting April 22, 2025, prospective MPNP candidates whose work permits have expired in 2024 or will expire in 2025 may apply for a two-year extension through a Manitoba-issued Support Letter. The online application form for support letters will be made available on the official Immigration Manitoba website.
Important: Applications will only be accepted once a work permit has already expired or will expire within the next 45 days.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify under this temporary policy (effective until December 31, 2025), candidates must meet both primary eligibility criteria and additional provincial conditions.
Primary Eligibility Criteria (one of the following must apply):
- You hold a valid work permit expiring in 2025, or
- You held a valid work permit on May 7, 2024 that has since expired and:
- You submitted a new work permit application under section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, or
- You applied for an extension of temporary resident status under section 181, or
- You applied for restoration of temporary resident status under section 182, or
- You were working under paragraph 186(u) as of May 7, 2024, and have since submitted one of the above applications (work permit, extension, or restoration).
Additional Manitoba Requirements (all must be met):
- You had an active Expression of Interest (EOI) profile on January 15, 2025, and it is still valid
- You resided in Manitoba before January 15, 2025, and have remained in the province continuously
- You are currently employed by a Manitoba employer willing to provide a letter of employment
- You intend to settle permanently in Manitoba
How to Apply for a Support Letter
Eligible individuals can apply for a Support Letter from Manitoba by completing an online submission form, available April 22, 2025. This letter is required to apply for a new work permit under the temporary public policy.
Required Documents:
- A letter of employment from your current Manitoba employer*
- A copy of your current or previous work permit, or proof of status/work authorization
- A copy of your valid EOI profile
Note: Incomplete applications will not be processed. Manitoba also reserves the right to limit the number of support letters it issues under this policy.
Important Dates to Remember
- April 22, 2025 – Applications open via online form
- Work permit must be expired or expiring within 45 days to be eligible
- December 31, 2025 – Policy end date (last day to submit application)
This is a welcomed move by the province of Manitoba to support its temporary residents who are contributing to the province’s economy and labour market, and proves another reason why Manitoba is a destination of choice for immigrants.
Need Support Preparing Your Application?
If your work permit is expiring soon or has already expired, and you’re planning to continue working and living in Manitoba, now is the time to act. We’re here to help you navigate this policy update and ensure your eligibility is properly documented.
Schedule a personalized consultation with one of our experienced immigration consultants.
Our team will assess your unique situation, help you gather the required documents, and guide you through each step of the application process—so you don’t miss this opportunity to continue building your future in Manitoba.
Contact us today to book your one-on-one consultation and secure your next steps toward permanent residency in Canada.
The Team at Northern Connections Canada
