Open Work Permit for Prospective Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Candidates – Manitoba & Yukon

Canada’s Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are a key pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers. To support nominees in the transition period, certain provinces issue support letters that allow applicants to apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) while their permanent residence application is pending. Currently, Manitoba and Yukon are among the provinces that offer this option.

What is the Open Work Permit for Prospective PNP Candidates?

An Open Work Permit gives holders the ability to work for almost any employer in Canada without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). With a support letter from Manitoba or Yukon, a nominee can continue to live and work in Canada while waiting for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to finalize their permanent residence.

Who is Eligible?

To qualify, applicants must:

• Have been nominated by Manitoba or Yukon under their Provincial Nominee Program.
• Hold a support letter from the provincial government confirming eligibility for the open work permit.
• Have already submitted, or be in the process of submitting, a permanent residence application under the PNP.
• Continue to meet residency and settlement requirements of the nominating province.

Benefits of the Program

• Work flexibility: Ability to work with different employers without restrictions.
• Maintains status in Canada: Nominees don’t have to leave the country while waiting for PR.
• Supports long-term settlement: Gain more Canadian work experience, which can also benefit the PR application.