Manitoba Extends Work Permits, Eases Path To Citizenship

On August 21, 2024, Manitoba signed a letter of intent with the federal government, enabling temporary residents identified under the MPNP to apply for work permit extensions. This agreement ensures that up to 6,700 temporary workers in the province can continue their employment while their MPNP applications are being processed. This initiative not only helps fill labour shortages but also supports workers who want to make Manitoba their permanent home.

The program is designed to ease the transition from temporary work status to permanent residency. Within two years, these workers are expected to receive a nomination under the MPNP, which will make them eligible for permanent residency. This initiative creates a clear, structured path to citizenship for individuals who have already contributed to Manitoba’s economy.

To ensure efficient processing, Manitoba is adding five temporary full-time positions for the 2024-25 fiscal year. These positions are aimed at speeding up applications for those whose status in Canada is expiring and ensuring that Manitoba utilizes its full allocation of 9,500 provincial nominees. This additional support will help prevent delays and ensure the province meets its labour market needs quickly.