Are you a UAE resident planning to settle permanently in Canada via PNP? There’s an important update you should know. The province of Manitoba has announced special work permits for workers who are part of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP).
It is a great opportunity for you to live and work in this province while waiting for your permanent residency. It mitigates the risk of losing your legal status for up to 2 years. However, not everyone can apply for this permit.
Wondering why this special work permit is introduced and who is eligible for it? You will get to know this and more in this informative blog.
Understanding the Manitoba Special Work Permit
It is a temporary work permit introduced by the Manitoba government and Canada’s federal immigration authority. It became available on April 22, 2025, and will remain open till December 31, 2025.
These permits are introduced for workers who are already in Manitoba under the Canada Skilled Immigration Program and are a part of the MPNP. If they have an expiring work permit or are waiting for their permanent residency process to move forward, these permits will allow them to work in the province for the next 2 years.
Why This Announcement Matters for UAE Residents
Canada is a top destination for people from the UAE who are looking for a stable job market and access to better education facilities. However, the process of applying for and obtaining a permanent residency permit is time-consuming. If you are already a part of MPNP, this special permit makes it easier to wait for the completion of the PR process.
Why Was This Permit Introduced?
Many skilled foreign workers and students in Manitoba have to deal with long PR processing times. They can lose their legal work status due to delays, which causes stress for workers and disruption for employers.
To avoid these issues, the Manitoba PNP has announced this exceptional work permit. It reduces the risk of workers losing legal status and gives them more time to wait for their permanent residency permit. Moreover, it also helps business owners retain talent.
Who Is Eligible for This Work Permit?
To qualify for this Manitoba-specific exceptional work permit, you need to meet some provincial and federal requirements. Let’s go through them.
Provisional Requirements
- A work permit that will expire in the next 45 days or has already expired in 2024 or 2025.
- You have been living in Manitoba since January 15, 2025, without any long breaks.
- An active expression of interest (EOI) profile in the Manitoba PNP system that was submitted before January 15, 2025.
- A valid job offer from an employer in Manitoba.
Federal Requirements
- A valid work permit that has been issued since May 7, 2024.
- Maintained your status legally by applying for the extension of your work permit before it expired.
Manitoba PNP has already been accepting applications for special work permits since April 22, 2025. If you are eligible, you can apply online for a support letter. You can use this in your work permit application.
Who Cannot Apply?
You cannot apply for this special work permit if:
- You have already received a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) from the Manitoba PNP. You should follow the standard PR process.
- You don’t have a valid job offer from an employer in Manitoba.
- You created an Expression of Interest profile after January 15, 2025.
- You haven’t applied for the extension of your work permit before it expired.
Documents You Need to Apply
You will need the following documents to complete your application for this special Manitoba-based work permit.
- Letter of support (Manitoba PNP will issue it if you are eligible)
- A copy of your EOI profile
- A copy of the current or expired work permit
- A valid job offer letter from a registered employer in Manitoba
- Proof that you have held the work permit since May 7, 2024
- Documents showcasing your legal ability to work in Canada
Application Process
The application process seems simple. However, it requires collecting different documents, paying attention to every detail when filling out the form, and understanding all the rules. The process involves:
- Requesting a Letter of Support from the Manitoba PNP office. It proves that you meet all provisional requirements.
- Applying online through the Canadian immigration website (IRCC). You have to upload your letter, job offer, EOI profile, and proof of legal status.
Any mistake during the application process can lead to rejection. Therefore, you should contact reliable experts, like DM Consultants, to get help. It’s a well-reputed company with skilled consultants who understand local needs and Canadian rules. Their guidance will make the process smoother and reduce the chances of rejection.
Benefits of the Special Manitoba Work Permit
Keeps You Employed: You won’t lose your job while waiting for PR. This permit enables you to work for your current employer. It offers financial stability and makes it easy to wait for the permanent residency permit.
Supports Your PR Application: This special permit allows you to work in Manitoba for up to 2 years. It helps you gather more experience, settle in Manitoba, and show your ability to contribute to the province’s economy. All these things support your PR application, speeding up the process and reducing the chances of rejection.
Reduces Uncertainty for Families: If you have to suddenly leave Canada because your work permit has expired, it can result in financial instability and uncertainty for your family. This permit allows you to continue employment and retain your legal status.
Avoids Legal Problems: You will be able to legally stay in Canada. It mitigates the risk of being asked to leave the country due to an expired permit.
Supports Employers: A Manitoba-based special permit is helpful for employers as well. It enables them to retain talent without worrying about their legal status. As a result, they don’t have to spend time and money on hiring and training new employees.
Bottom Line
The Manitoba Special Work Permit is not a permanent program. It will not accept any application after December 31, 2025. If you are eligible, it’s a good chance to stay and work in Canada while waiting for your PR. If you need any information or want expert support for the application process,contact DM Consultants for expert guidance.
