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Manitoba Launches New 2-Year Open Work Permit for Provincial Nominee Program Workers

December 21, 2025 6:42 am

Manitoba Launches New 2-Year Open Work Permit for Provincial Nominee Program Workers

Manitoba has rolled out a new 2-year open work permit aimed at eligible candidates from the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). This initiative supports workers whose current permits have expired or are about to expire, allowing them to stay in the province while their immigration process unfolds.

Overview of the Open Work Permit

If you are currently in Manitoba on a work permit that has lapsed or is nearing its end, this new policy is excellent news. The 2-year open work permit provides a temporary solution for PNP workers, ensuring they can stay without any interruptions. Under this program, eligible individuals can apply online via their IRCC account if they have the necessary documents. This allows them to continue living and working in Manitoba for an additional two years.

Benefits of an Open Work Permit

An open work permit offers the freedom to work with nearly any employer in Canada. This flexibility means you can change jobs without being tied to a specific employer while your immigration case is still pending.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for this open work permit, candidates must meet the following requirements:

Existing MPNP Profile: You should have a Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program profile created on or after January 15, 2025, along with a support letter from Manitoba.
Work Permit Status: Your work permit must have expired on or after May 7, 2024, or be expiring in 2025.
Work Authorization: You must currently be authorized to work in Canada.
Application for Status Restoration: If your permit expired on or after May 7, 2024, you must have applied to restore your status.
Valid Job Offer: A valid job offer is required.
Active Expression of Interest: Your MPNP Expression of Interest profile must still be active and created on or after January 15, 2025.

Application Deadline

The final date to apply for this permit is December 31, 2025. It’s advisable to act sooner rather than later to avoid complications.

Costs Involved

The application incurs several fees:

Standard Work Permit Fee: 155 CAD
Open Work Permit Holder Fee: 100 CAD
Restoration Fee (if applicable): 246.25 CAD

Step-by-Step Application Process

To apply for the open work permit, follow these steps:

Read the Guide: Go through Instruction Guide 5553 thoroughly to comprehend the requirements and prepare necessary documents.
Log Into IRCC Account: Access your IRCC Secure Account, complete the eligibility questionnaire, and obtain your personalized document checklist.
Complete Work Permit Form: Fill out the application form with details regarding your current employment and type of work permit being applied for.
Upload Required Documents: Attach all requested documents, including your support letter, proof of employment, passport pages, and any status restoration documents.
Pay Application Fees: Make all necessary payments, including the standard work permit fee, open work permit holder fee, and any restoration fee as appropriate.
Submit Your Application: Review all information carefully before submitting your complete application through your IRCC account. Await updates on your application status.

Conclusion

This new open work permit policy allows MPNP candidates to maintain stability while awaiting permanent residency. It is essential for eligible individuals to take advantage of this opportunity early to prevent any last-minute issues before the application deadline in 2025. Don’t miss this chance to secure your future in Manitoba!