Published: April 15, 2025
Manitoba has introduced a new temporary public policy to support foreign workers in the province whose work permits have expired or are nearing expiry. Starting April 22, 2025, eligible prospective Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) candidates will be able to request Support Letters that allow them to apply for a two-year Manitoba-specific open work permit, helping them remain and continue working in the province as they await nomination.
This policy is designed to address the unique challenges faced by temporary residents navigating work permit expirations during the MPNP process and ensures continuity for workers contributing to Manitoba’s workforce.
Who is Eligible?
This temporary policy is open to individuals who meet one of the following conditions:
- Hold a valid work permit expiring in 2025; or
- Held a valid work permit on May 7, 2024, which has since expired and have applied for:
- A new work permit (section 200 IRPR),
- An extension of temporary resident status (section 181 IRPR), or
- A restoration of status (section 182 IRPR); or
- Were working under paragraph 186(u)on May 7, 2024, and have since submitted a valid application for a new work permit or extension of status.
In addition to one of the above, applicants must also demonstrate that:
- They had a valid MPNP Expression of Interest (EOI)profile as of January 15, 2025, and still do at the time of application;
- They have resided continuously in Manitoba since before January 15, 2025;
- They are currently employed by a Manitoba employer willing to provide a letter of employment;
- They intend to settle in Manitoba permanently.
How to Apply
Applicants must provide:
- A letter of employmentfrom their Manitoba employer;
- Proof of valid or expired work authorization as of May 7, 2024 (and any restoration applications submitted if applicable);
- A copy of their MPNP EOI profile.
Important: Applications missing any of the required documentation will not be approved. Manitoba may also limit the number of support letters issued under this policy.
Deadline
The public policy is in effect until December 31, 2025, and only applies to individuals whose work permits expired in 2024 or 2025 or will expire within 45 days.
Need Help?
If you need assistance applying under this policy for your work permit extension, contact us today at 204-944-8889 or email us at lawoffice@fridman.ca for personalized support. Our team specializes in temporary residence applications, including work permits, as well as permanent residency pathways, such as the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please refer to the Government of Manitoba official website for full details.