Manitoba Launches New 24-Month Open Work Permit for PNP Workers

If your work permit has expired or is close to expiring and you are currently living and working in Manitoba, there is important news that could protect your legal status and employment. Manitoba has introduced a new 24-month open work permit for eligible Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applicants under a temporary public policy. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

This initiative is designed to prevent employment disruptions for foreign workers who are already contributing to Manitoba’s labour market while waiting for their permanent residence applications to be finalized.

What Is the 24-Month Open Work Permit?

An open work permit allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada without being tied to a specific job or company. Unlike employer-specific permits, it provides flexibility to:

  • Change employers
  • Switch job roles
  • Continue working while immigration applications are being processed

Under this Manitoba-specific policy, eligible applicants can receive an additional 24 months of work authorization, giving them stability while transitioning to permanent residence.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

To qualify for this 24-month open work permit, applicants must meet all of the following conditions: :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

  • Have a Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) Expression of Interest profile created on or after 15 January 2025
  • Hold an active MPNP profile
  • Possess a valid Manitoba support or sponsorship letter
  • Have a work permit that:
    • Expired on or after 7 May 2024, or
    • Will expire at any time in 2025
  • Be authorized to work in Canada
  • Have a genuine job offer
  • If the permit expired on 7 May 2024, have applied to restore status

Application Deadline

The final date to apply under this temporary public policy is:

31 December 2025

Although there is still time, eligible applicants are advised not to delay, as missing the deadline could result in loss of status or employment interruption.

Cost of the 24-Month Open Work Permit

Applicants must pay standard IRCC fees as follows: :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

  • Work permit application fee: $113.02
  • Open work permit holder fee: $72.91
  • Status restoration fee (if required): $179.56

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Review the Instruction Guide

Carefully read IRCC Guide 5553 to understand eligibility rules, required documents, and the online application process.

2. Log In to Your IRCC Account

Sign in to your Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) secure account or create one if necessary.

3. Complete the Eligibility Questionnaire

Answer the online questions accurately to generate a personalized document checklist.

4. Complete the Work Permit Application Form

Provide full details about your current immigration status, employment information, and the type of open work permit you are requesting.

5. Upload Required Documents

Submit all documents listed in your checklist, including:

  • Manitoba support letter
  • Proof of employment
  • Passport biographical pages
  • Status restoration documents (if applicable)

6. Pay the Required Fees

Pay the work permit fee, open work permit holder fee, and restoration fee if applicable.

7. Submit Your Application

Review your application carefully, submit it through your IRCC account, and monitor your account for updates or additional requests.

Why This Policy Matters

This temporary public policy provides critical stability for Manitoba PNP applicants by:

  • Preventing job loss due to expired permits
  • Allowing continued lawful residence in Canada
  • Reducing stress while awaiting permanent residence decisions
  • Helping Manitoba employers retain skilled workers

Conclusion

Manitoba’s new 24-month open work permit offers a vital safety net for Provincial Nominee Program applicants whose work permits have expired or are about to expire. It allows eligible workers to remain employed and legally present in Canada while their permanent residence applications are processed. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

If you meet the eligibility criteria, applying early is strongly recommended to avoid last-minute complications before the December 31, 2025 deadline.

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