IRCC Grants Manitoba's Request to Extend Work Permits for PNP Candidates

Canada's Immigration Minister has approved extending the temporary resident status for 6,700 Manitoba nominees, aiding their transition to PR amid efforts to address labor market needs and public concerns over high immigration levels.

Canada’s Immigration Minister, Marc Miller, has approved a request from Manitoba to extend temporary resident status for some nominees in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). IRCC stated that this extension applies to 6,700 temporary workers, primarily Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders, whose permits expire in 2024.

These individuals have pending applications in Manitoba's Skilled Worker Program, an immigration pathway addressing key job vacancies. The province expects that eligible foreign nationals will receive official nominations and become permanent residents within two years.

Manitoba's PNP Success

Manitoba established the first PNP in 1998 to attract newcomers outside major urban centers. Its success led to adoption by all provinces except Quebec and Nunavut. In 2023, 10,000 people in Manitoba transitioned to permanent residents, with 1,478 approvals from 1,560 Expressions of Interest in early 2024.

IRCC expressed willingness to collaborate with other provinces to transition more temporary residents to permanent status, addressing national labor market needs. More details may emerge following the Federation of Ministers Responsible for Immigration (FMRI) meeting on May 10.

Check out these other provinces that held PNP draws: Canada Immigration News: 3 Major Provinces Held PNP Draws

Adjustments to Temporary Resident Levels

In March, Minister Miller announced a focus on domestic draws to transition existing temporary residents to permanent residents, rather than increasing the number of new temporary residents. In 2023, Canada had over 2.5 million temporary residents. That year, 157,000 transitioned to permanent residents.

These changes come amid a shortage of affordable housing, a strained healthcare system, and high living costs. Throughout 2023, several polls indicated declining public support for high levels of immigration.

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The IRCC's decision to extend work permits for Manitoba's PNP candidates highlights Canada's commitment to supporting skilled workers and addressing labor market needs. If you're considering making Canada your permanent home, GetGIS is here to help.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Who benefits from the work permit extension?

The extension benefits 6,700 temporary workers in Manitoba, primarily those who hold Post Graduation Work Permits and are awaiting their permanent residency through the Manitoba Skilled Worker Program.

Q2. Why Is the extension of work permits necessary?

The extension allows temporary workers to continue their employment while their applications for permanent residency are processed, ensuring they can remain in Canada legally and contribute to the local economy.

Q3. How does this extension impact Manitoba's labor market?

By allowing these skilled workers to stay and work in Manitoba, the extension helps fill key job vacancies and supports the province's economic stability and growth.

Q4. How does this decision align with IRCC's broader immigration strategy?

This decision supports IRCC's strategy to convert more temporary residents to permanent residents, addressing national labor market needs and reducing the reliance on new temporary residents.

Q5. What is the process for obtaining a nomination through Manitoba's PNP?

Candidates typically need to submit an Expression of Interest, receive an Invitation to Apply, and then submit a complete application for nomination to the Manitoba PNP.