Latest Updates on the Manitoba Immigration Program – 2025

Manitoba continues to attract many Vietnamese immigrants thanks to its flexible intake policies, real labor market demands, and clearly defined immigration pathways. The province’s immigration streams are particularly well-suited for skilled workers, international students, and families seeking long-term settlement in Canada. As of 2025, Manitoba has introduced important updates related to priority occupations, points assessment, and applicant support policies. Join Phan Immigration in exploring these changes to help you prepare effectively for your immigration journey to Manitoba.

What Is Manitoba Immigration (MPNP)?

Manitoba is a province in Western Canada, located between Ontario and Saskatchewan. With its abundant natural resources and a strong agricultural foundation, Manitoba plays a key role in Canada’s national economy. The province has a population of approximately 1.2 million, with most residents living in Winnipeg—its largest city and economic hub.

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is a provincial immigration initiative managed directly by the Manitoba government. Through this program, the province can select and nominate foreign nationals who possess in-demand skills, work experience, or investment potential aligned with Manitoba’s labor market and economic development goals.

Manitoba offers exceptional opportunities for individuals and families seeking long-term settlement in Canada. Here are five reasons why Manitoba has become a preferred destination for immigrants:

• Strong Job Market and Competitive Income: Manitoba is one of Canada’s fastest-growing economies, with a wide range of occupations facing labor shortages. For example, software engineers in the province earn an average salary of CAD 100,000/year, which is higher than the national average and more than in regions like Ontario.
• Affordable Cost of Living and Housing: Winnipeg, the province’s largest city, has a monthly living cost of approximately CAD 2,184, significantly lower than in cities like Toronto or Vancouver. The average home price in Manitoba is about CAD 386,416, making it one of the most affordable provinces for home ownership in Canada.
• Rich Natural Environment and High Quality of Life: Manitoba is known for its diverse ecosystems, including forests, lakes, deserts, and the Hudson Bay coastline. Its clean, nature-oriented environment makes it ideal for outdoor living, and the province has a high rate of seasonal and recreational home ownership.
• Sunny Climate Suited for Both Summer and Winter Activities: With over 2,300 hours of sunshine annually, Winnipeg boasts a bright and pleasant climate. Summers are ideal for outdoor adventures, while winters offer opportunities to enjoy snow sports—especially skating on Canada’s longest natural skating trail.
• Moderate Population Density and Excellent Connectivity: Manitoba’s balanced population size offers a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to essential services. Located at the heart of North America, Winnipeg provides convenient travel routes within Canada and to neighboring U.S. states.

In April 2025, the Government of Canada introduced a temporary public policy allowing eligible MPNP applicants to extend their work permits by up to two years. This applies to individuals whose permits have expired in 2024 or are set to expire within 45 days of their application submission.

This measure enables workers to maintain employment and stability while waiting for nomination results. The policy remains in effect until December 31, 2025, offering a practical solution for skilled workers aiming for long-term settlement in Manitoba.

Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) Streams

The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) is designed to attract individuals with the skills, experience, and potential to contribute to the province’s economic development. The program consists of three main streams:

• Skilled Worker Stream
• Business Investor Stream
• International Education Stream

MPNP – Skilled Worker Stream

The Skilled Worker Stream focuses on selecting internationally trained workers whose skills are in demand in Manitoba’s labor market. It includes the following pathways:

Skilled Workers in Manitoba Pathway

This pathway is intended for temporary foreign workers and international students who are currently working or have previously worked in Manitoba.

Eligible Employment Criteria:

• The employer must be registered or incorporated under Manitoba law or the Canadian federal government.
• The business must be actively operating with a physical location in Manitoba (e.g., plant, office, or production site).
• The employer must demonstrate to MPNP that it is financially stable and capable of offering a full-time, long-term position in the province.

The following types of work experience are not considered valid:

• Self-employment
• Unauthorized employment
• Work performed during full-time studies (e.g., co-op or internships)

Ineligible applicants under this stream include:

• Self-employed individuals
• Business owners
• Owner-operators
• Independent contractors working for the supporting employer

Note: MPNP will only issue a work permit support letter if there is a clear and direct employer–employee relationship.

For Temporary Foreign Workers:

• The permanent job offer must come from the same employer where the applicant has been working full-time for the required period.
• Applicants must meet all job requirements, including:
  • Relevant education or training
  • Necessary certifications or licenses (if applicable)
  • Sufficient English or French language skills to perform job duties
• The connection to Manitoba through employment must be stronger than any ties to other provinces.
• A settlement plan must clearly show the applicant’s intention to live, work, and settle in Manitoba as a permanent resident.

Note: Individuals who are exempt from needing a work permit (e.g., religious workers) and those participating in work-study programs are not eligible under this pathway.

For International Graduates Working in Manitoba:

Eligibility applies only to students who have:

• Graduated from a post-secondary institution in Manitoba.
• Worked full-time for at least six consecutive months for an eligible Manitoba employer, using a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
• Received a permanent, full-time job offer from the same employer.

Additional conditions:

• The study program must have been full-time, academic or vocational, and completed at a designated public institution or a registered private vocational institution in Manitoba.
• The program must have lasted at least one academic year, resulting in a diploma, degree, or certificate.
• The job offer must match the employer where the 6-month work experience was gained.
• The applicant must possess a valid PGWP issued by IRCC.
• Employment ties to Manitoba must be stronger than ties to any other province.
• A settlement plan is required to demonstrate clear intent to live and work in Manitoba as a permanent resident
• Applicants must meet relevant job qualifications and possess appropriate English or French proficiency

Note: Some graduates may be eligible for a PGWP extension of up to 18 months (refer to official IRCC announcements for details).

Application Process:

• Step 1: Create an Expression of Interest (EOI) online.
• Step 2: If eligible, receive a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) from MPNP.
• Step 3: Submit a complete application to the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP).
• Step 4: Upon receiving a provincial nomination, apply for permanent residence with the Government of Canada within 180 days.

Skilled Workers Overseas (SWO) Stream

To apply under the Skilled Workers Overseas stream, applicants must demonstrate a strong and verifiable connection to Manitoba through one of the following:

• Manitoba Support – support from family or close friends living in the province.
• Manitoba Experience – prior work or study experience in Manitoba.
• Manitoba Invitation – an official invitation to apply issued directly by MPNP through strategic recruitment initiatives.

Details for each connection type are outlined below:

Manitoba Support: You may be supported by a relative or close friend currently residing in Manitoba who is willing to confirm and support your settlement and job search plan in the province.

• Eligibility Criteria for Supporters:
  • Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who has lived in Manitoba continuously for at least one year (can be verified with a Manitoba health card).
  • Must have a close relationship with both you and the province.
  • Must have successfully supported past applicants, if applicable
  • Must be actively involved in helping with your settlement plan
• Eligible relatives include:
  • Siblings
  • Nieces or nephews
  • Aunts and uncles
  • First cousins
  • Parents
  • Grandparents
• If your supporter is a friend or distant relative, they must not:
  • Be supporting another ongoing MPNP application
  • Be involved in any other Canadian immigration program as a sponsor
• Not eligible to act as a supporter:
  • Paid immigration representatives.
  • Individuals who are not relatives or close friends.
  • Canadian politicians or their staff

Important Notes:

• You must accurately declare your supporter and provide their full contact information.
• Supporters must update MPNP with any changes in their information—incomplete or unreachable contacts may lead to application refusal.
• MPNP is not a sponsorship program—you must still meet all eligibility requirements independently (work ability, language proficiency, financial stability, and genuine intent to settle in Manitoba).

Manitoba Experience: You may be eligible under this category if you have previously lived in Manitoba as either:

• A temporary foreign worker, or

• An international student

• For temporary foreign workers:
  • You must have worked full-time for at least six consecutive months for a Manitoba employer.
  • Submit an employment reference letter on company letterhead with a signature.
  • Include a copy of your valid work permit issued for Manitoba.
• For international students:
  • You must have completed a recognized post-secondary program in Manitoba (language training programs are not eligible)
  • Submit your study permit, transcripts, and graduation certificate or diploma.

Manitoba Invitation: MPNP occasionally issues Invitations to Apply (ITA) to candidates identified through Strategic Recruitment Initiatives, both within and outside of Manitoba.

Important Notes:

• Invitations are issued at the sole discretion of MPNP.
• Applicants cannot request or qualify under this stream without a formal invitation.
• When applying under this stream, you must:
  • Upload the official invitation letter issued by MPNP.
  • Provide evidence of having interviewed with a program officer during a recruitment event or exploratory visit organized by MPNP.

Application Process:

• Step 1: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and complete the online self-assessment questionnaire.
• Step 2: If your score is competitive, you may receive an invitation from MPNP to submit a full application.
• Step 3: Once nominated, submit your permanent residence application to IRCC. If you are applying through Express Entry, processing times may be significantly shorter.

Note: In addition to demonstrating a connection to Manitoba, you must also score at least 60 points on the MPNP assessment grid. Points are awarded based on five factors:

• Language proficiency
• Age
• Work experience
• Education
• Adaptability

MPNP – Business Investor Stream (BIS)

The Business Investor Stream (BIS) targets individuals who wish to immigrate to Manitoba by establishing a business or farm in the province. The average processing time is approximately 6 months.

BIS offers two main pathways:

• Farm Investor Pathway (FIP)
• Entrepreneur Pathway (Startup/Business Investment)

Farm Investor Pathway (FIP)

This pathway is designed for individuals with experience in the agricultural sector who intend to establish and operate a farm business in rural Manitoba.

Eligibility Criteria:

• A minimum of 3 years of farm ownership or management experience.
• If invited for an FIP interview, you must conduct the interview in English or French.
• Make a minimum investment of CAD 300,000 in a farm business in Manitoba.
• Submit a comprehensive farm business plan outlining operational details and goals.
• Commitment to long-term settlement in Manitoba and active participation in farm management.
• Minimum net worth of CAD 500,000.

Registration Process – Farm Investor Pathway:

• Step 1: Conduct an exploratory farm research visit to Manitoba.
• Step 2: Complete the self-assessment forms and submit a comprehensive farm business plan.
• Step 3: If eligible, receive a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) from MPNP.
• Step 4: Sign the Deposit Agreement and transfer a CAD 75,000 refundable deposit.
• Step 5: Upon approval, submit your permanent residence application to IRCC.
• Step 6: Proceed with the farm business establishment in Manitoba.

Entrepreneur Pathway

This pathway is intended for business owners who plan to establish a new business or acquire an existing one in Manitoba.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Minimum 3 years of full-time work experience in the last 5 years as a business owner or senior manager.
• Language proficiency of at least CLB 5 (English) or NCLC 5 (French).
• High school diploma or equivalent recognized in Canada.
• Minimum investment of:
  • CAD 250,000 for businesses located in Winnipeg.
  • CAD 150,000 for businesses in other regions of Manitoba.
• Must create at least one full-time job for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• Submit a detailed business plan.
• Strongly encouraged to conduct a business exploratory visit within 1 year before applying.
• Minimum net worth of CAD 500,000.

Registration Process – Entrepreneur Pathway:

• Step 1: Assess your eligibility against the program’s requirements.
• Step 2: Research the Business Investor Stream (BIS) and Manitoba’s market environment.
• Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) along with business forms and a proposed business plan.
• Step 4: If selected, receive a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA).
• Step 5: Submit a complete application and attend an interview if required
• Step 6: Upon approval:
  • Sign the Business Performance Agreement (BPA).
  • Apply for a work permit to operate the business in Manitoba.
  • Establish the business and execute the plan according to the BPA.
• Step 7: Once you meet the BPA requirements, receive a provincial nomination.
• Step 8: Submit a permanent residence application to IRCC for yourself and your family.

Manitoba International Education Stream (IES)

The International Education Stream (IES) is designed to provide international graduates from designated post-secondary institutions in Manitoba with opportunities to stay, work, and settle in the province permanently. The stream includes three main pathways:

• Career Employment Pathway
• Graduate Internship Pathway
• International Student Entrepreneur Pathway

Each pathway offers tailored options based on the graduate’s background and future goals.

Career Employment Pathway

This pathway supports international graduates in transitioning from student status to permanent residency through stable employment in Manitoba. Applicants must have graduated within the past three years from a designated post-secondary institution in Manitoba, having completed a full-time program of at least one academic year or two semesters.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Completion of a recognized post-secondary program in Manitoba.
• A full-time job offer from an eligible Manitoba employer with a minimum one-year contract.
• The job must be in a field that is on Manitoba’s In-Demand Occupations List and closely related to the applicant’s program of study.
• The applicant must be residing in Manitoba at the time of application.
• Minimum language proficiency of CLB/NCLC 7.
• Graduates are eligible if the job offer falls under TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 (previously NOC 0, A, or B) occupations on Manitoba’s in-demand list.
• The applicant must either:
  • Demonstrate sufficient liquid funds equivalent to 6 months of LICO (Low Income Cut-Off) standards.
  • Or be employed full-time in a permanent position in Manitoba.

Application Process:

• Step 1: Create an Expression of Interest (EOI) profile.
• Step 2: If selected, receive a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA).
• Step 3: Submit a complete application to MPNP for assessment.
• Step 4: If approved, receive a provincial nomination from MPNP.
• Step 5: Within 180 days of receiving the nomination, submit your permanent residence application to the Government of Canada for yourself and your accompanying family members.

International Student Entrepreneur Pilot (ISEP)

The International Student Entrepreneur Pilot is designed for up to 20 international students per year who have graduated in Manitoba and wish to start and actively manage a business in the province after graduation.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Business Experience:
  • A business plan must be submitted with the application.
  • You must actively manage your business in Manitoba for at least 6 months before being nominated, in accordance with the Business Performance Agreement (BPA).
  • You must own at least 51% of the business.
• Language Proficiency: Minimum CLB/NCLC 7 in English or French.
• Education:
  • Must have completed a full-time post-secondary program in Manitoba of at least 2 years.
  • Prior work or study experience outside Canada is considered an asset but is not mandatory.
• Age: Between 21 and 35 years old at the time of application.
• Adaptability:
  • Must hold a valid open work permit when applying.
  • Must have resided continuously in Manitoba since graduation and demonstrate intent to settle permanently.
• Financial Requirements:
  • No fixed net worth or deposit is required.
  • Must demonstrate access to liquid funds equivalent to 12 months of LICO (Low Income Cut-Off) for living expenses.
  • Personal net worth will be verified by a third party. The net worth verification report must be submitted within 120 days of receiving the Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA).
• Business Performance Agreement (BPA): A BPA must be signed after application approval but before receiving the official Approval-in-Principle from MPNP.

Application Process:

• Step 1: Assess your eligibility based on program criteria.
• Step 2: Research the program and develop your business concept.
• Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) along with required forms and a business plan.
• Step 4: If selected, receive a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA).
• Step 5: Submit a full application and attend an interview if required.
• Step 6: Upon approval, sign the Business Performance Agreement (BPA).
• Step 7: Establish your business and implement the plan in accordance with the BPA.
• Step 8: Once BPA conditions are met, receive a provincial nomination from MPNP.

Graduate Internship Pathway

This pathway is designed for international graduates who have completed a postgraduate program (Master’s or Ph.D.) in Manitoba and participated in a research or internship placement within the province. It offers a valuable opportunity for graduates to gain practical experience before applying for permanent residency.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Completion of a Master’s or Ph.D. program in Manitoba within the past 3 years.
• Minimum CLB/NCLC 7 or equivalent in English or French.
• Successful completion of a Mitacs Elevate or Mitacs Accelerate internship (including Accelerate Entrepreneur) with a research or applied organization in Manitoba.
• A job offer is not required at the time of application.
• Must demonstrate either:
  • Access to liquid funds equivalent to 6 months of LICO (Low Income Cut-Off)

OR

• Full-time, long-term employment in Manitoba.
• Must be residing in Manitoba at the time of application.
• Must demonstrate a clear intention to live and work in Manitoba permanently, supported by a career plan that outlines long-term professional development in the province.

Application Process:

• Step 1: Create an Expression of Interest (EOI) profile online.
• Step 2: If selected, receive a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) from MPNP.
• Step 3: Submit a complete application, which will be thoroughly reviewed by MPNP officers.
• Step 4: If approved, you will receive a provincial nomination.
• Step 5: Within 180 days of receiving your nomination, submit your permanent residence application to the Government of Canada for yourself and your accompanying family members.

Key Tips for a Smooth and Successful Immigration Journey to Manitoba

To increase your chances of success when applying through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), keep the following important points in mind:

• Provide accurate and complete information: Your application must be free of errors, with information that is accurate and aligned with program requirements. Even small mistakes can lead to delays, rejections, or complications in future visa applications.
• Optimize your EOI score: Improve your competitiveness by actively enhancing your profile:
  • Increase your language test scores (IELTS/CLB).
  • Gain more relevant work experience in high-demand occupations.
  • Build or strengthen connections to Manitoba, such as studying, working, or having close family ties.
• Submit on time: Ensure that all required documents are submitted in full and before the deadline to avoid disqualification.
• Track your application status: Regularly check for updates on your application and promptly respond to any additional information requests from MPNP officers.
• Keep copies of your documents: If you submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) directly, save a copy of all the submitted information and documents. This will help you track what was submitted and assist if you need to work with a licensed immigration representative or respond to a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA).

Latest Immigration Policy Updates from Manitoba

The Government of Manitoba is actively implementing supportive measures to retain skilled temporary workers and facilitate their long-term settlement through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP).

Manitoba’s Minister of Labour and Immigration, Malaya Marcelino, recently reaffirmed the province’s commitment to continue issuing temporary work permits for applicants with active MPNP files. This allows workers to maintain stable employment while their immigration applications are under review.

On August 21, 2024, Manitoba signed a Letter of Intent with the Federal Government, allowing eligible MPNP applicants to apply for work permit extensions. An estimated 6,700 temporary workers will benefit from this policy, with the possibility of receiving a provincial nomination within two years.

In addition, to fully utilize the 9,500 nomination allocations granted to the province for 2024—and to address cases nearing expiration—Manitoba is planning to introduce more full-time employment positions. These proactive steps reflect the province’s strong commitment to helping temporary foreign workers transition to permanent residency as efficiently as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Manitoba Immigration Program

When are Manitoba’s Provincial Nominee Programs active?

All core streams of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)—including the Skilled Worker, International Education, and Business Investor streams—are currently active and accepting applications. However, certain temporary policies, such as work permit extensions for eligible candidates, have defined deadlines.
For example, the temporary work permit extension policy for MPNP applicants will remain in effect until December 31, 2025.

How long does it take to process an MPNP application?

Processing times under the MPNP are generally faster than in many other provinces in Canada.

• At the provincial level, a well-prepared application that meets eligibility criteria is usually processed within 4 to 6 months.
• Once a nomination is issued, the federal permanent residence processing (IRCC) typically takes 12 to 15 months, depending on the case.
• In some complex cases requiring additional background checks, the entire process can take up to 20 months.

Can I apply to MPNP without having any connections to Manitoba?

Yes, it is possible to apply even without direct ties to Manitoba through certain regional immigration initiatives, including:

• Churchill
• Morden
• Pinawa
• Winkler
• RNIP – Brandon (Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot)
• RNIP – Altona

These programs offer alternative pathways for skilled individuals who meet local labor needs and settlement plans.

Who is not eligible to apply to MPNP?

The following individuals are not eligible to apply under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program:

• Asylum seekers currently in Canada, those under appeal, or facing federal removal orders.
• Live-in caregivers currently residing in Canada.
• Temporary workers employed in other provinces outside Manitoba.
• Spouses of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
• Applicants who have been rejected by MPNP within the last 6 months and have not addressed the reasons for refusal.
• Individuals who already have a pending immigration application with IRCC or another provincial program.

We hope this guide has provided you with a clear understanding of the Manitoba immigration pathways in 2025 and key policy updates to consider. With a stable labor market, affordable cost of living, and well-defined permanent residency routes, Manitoba is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for Vietnamese families seeking a new life in Canada. If you’re looking for a clear and personalized immigration strategy, the team at Phan Immigration is ready to guide you through every step of the process—from eligibility assessment to permanent settlement.