Manitoba launches temporary measure for eligible MPNP candidates with expiring or expired work permits. Applications open April 22, with the policy running until December 31, 2025.
Manitoba Opens Support Letter Applications Under MPNP for Work Permit Extensions
The Government of Manitoba has introduced a temporary public policy enabling eligible candidates under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) to request a Support Letter for a Manitoba-specific work permit. This policy will be effective starting April 22, 2025, and will remain in effect until December 31, 2025, or until a cap is reached.
Who Is Eligible?
Applicants must meet at least one of the following six conditions related to their work permit status:
- Currently holds a valid work permit expiring in 2025.
- Had a valid work permit as of May 7, 2024, which has since expired, and subsequently applied for a new permit under section 200.
- Held a valid work permit on May 7, 2024, and has since applied for an extension under section 181.
- Previously held a valid work permit on May 7, 2024, and submitted an application for the restoration of temporary resident status under section 182.
- Were working under R186(u) on May 7, 2024, with a pending or approved extension and applied for a new permit under section 200.
- Same as above, but applied for an extension under section 181 instead of a new permit.
Additional Mandatory Conditions
In addition to meeting one of the eligibility scenarios, candidates must satisfy all of the following requirements:
- Had a valid Expression of Interest (EOI) profile with MPNP as of January 15, 2025.
- Possess a valid EOI profile at the time of application.
- Were living in Manitoba before January 15, 2025, and continue to reside in the province.
- Must be employed in Manitoba and be able to provide a job confirmation letter from their current employer.
- Intend to settle in Manitoba permanently as a future permanent resident.
Important Application Timing Notice
Applicants must only apply once their current work permit has expired or is set to expire within 45 days. Early applications will not be accepted. Manitoba has also stated that the number of Support Letters may be capped, emphasizing the need for timely action by eligible individuals.
Quick Recap
- Manitoba will begin accepting Support Letter applications under the MPNP from April 22, 2025.
- Eligible applicants include those with expired or expiring work permits, based on specific IRCC sections.
- A valid MPNP EOI profile and continuous residence in Manitoba are mandatory.
- Applicants must be employed and show genuine settlement intent in Manitoba.
- The temporary policy runs until December 31, 2025, or until Support Letter issuance is capped.
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