Navigating the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
can seem complex, but understanding each step makes the journey smoother. This
guide walks you through the process from Expression of Interest (EOI) to
Permanent Residency (PR).
Step 1: Apply for PGWP
After graduation, international students must apply for a
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 90 days of completing their program
or before their study permit expires. This allows you to start working in
Canada and maintain legal status.
Step 2: Submit Your EOI
The Expression of Interest (EOI) is the first step of the
MPNP. Depending on your situation, you have three options:
- On-Field
& In-Demand Occupation: Submit your EOI on your first day of
employment under the International Education Stream (IES), no need to wait
for your first pay stub.
- Inside
Manitoba Skilled Worker: Submit after 6 months of work experience.
- Outside
Manitoba Skilled Worker: Submit after 12 months of work experience outside
Manitoba.
Once you submit your EOI, selected applicants will receive a
Letter of Advice (LOA).
Step 3: Nomination
After receiving your LOA, you submit your MPNP nomination
application, which currently takes 9–12 months. Approval makes you eligible to
apply for PR and a bounded work permit.
Step 4: Permanent Residency Process
After submission, it typically takes 5–7 months to receive
your PR file number, making you eligible for a bridging work permit. During the
18–24 months PR process, you will complete:
- Biometrics
- Medical
exams
- Pre-arrival
steps
- Portal
submissions
- eCOPR
issuance
- PR
card arrival
Step 5: Avoid Common Pitfalls
The most challenging part of the MPNP is identifying the
correct NOC code. Most Procedural Fairness Letters (PFLs) and refusals occur
because job duties do not match your NOC. Accurate matching is critical to
ensure smooth application.
To maximize your chances, book your first free in-person
consultation with an immigration lawyer to determine your correct NOC and
eligibility.
