In previous years, many international students in Manitoba secured permanent residency (PR) through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) with just a one-year diploma or certificate. However, in 2025 the situation has drastically changed, making it almost impossible to achieve PR through this pathway.
The 1-Year Diploma Challenge
After completing a one-year program, graduates apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). The process takes 5–7 months, during which students maintain implied status and can work. Once approved, the PGWP is valid for only one year, giving graduates just 19 months in total to secure PR.
Option 1: International Education Stream (IES)
The most common route is the Career Employment Pathway under IES. However, recent draws show stricter conditions—requiring close relatives in Manitoba or four years of work experience. Applicants unable to justify their situation will receive Procedural Fairness Letter (PFL), delaying the process up to 2–3 years. Even PhD holders are competing for in-demand jobs to qualify under IES, making it extremely competitive.
Option 2: Skilled Worker in Manitoba
There has been no draw since March 21, 2025 in this pathway, creating further uncertainty for applicants.
The Best Advice
For most students, a 1-year PGWP offers little to no chance of PR in 2025. Since PGWP is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, using it after a short program can severely limit future immigration options. The smarter choice is to pursue a 2-year study program, which leads to a 3-year PGWP and far more immigration pathways.
If you cannot afford a 2-year program, it’s important to discuss alternative options with an immigration lawyer before applying for PGWP.
At A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation, we provide personalized guidance to help students plan the right pathway. Contact us today for your first free in-person consultation.
How to Determine Your Correct NOC for Canadian Immigration
Selecting the correct National Occupation Classification (NOC) code is one of the most important steps in any Canadian immigration application. A minor NOC error can lead to a major refusal from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), delaying your Permanent Residency (PR) or work permit application.
This guide explains what NOC is, how codes are structured, and how to avoid common mistakes when choosing your NOC.
What is a NOC?
The NOC system is Canada’s official classification of occupations. Every job has a unique five-digit code that reflects:
1. Job title
2. Main duties
3. Industry
4. Education, training, and experience required
For example:
· 63200 – Cooks
· 65201 – Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers, and related support occupations
How NOC Codes Are Structured
1. First Digit – Broad Occupational Category
The first digit identifies the field of work and is divided into 10 broad categories:
2. Second Digit – TEER Level
TEER stands for Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities. It shows the skill level of the job.
The higher the TEER level, the higher the skill requirements.
3rd & 4th Digits – Major and Sub-Major Groups
These digits classify the field and specialization.
· Example: 11100 = Accountant (Finance field → Accounting specialization).
· Example: 11201 = Business consultant (Business field → Consulting specialization).
5th Digit – Specific Occupation
The last digit distinguishes the exact job within the specialization.
· 31300 – Nursing coordinators and supervisors
· 31301 – Registered nurses
· 31302 – Nurse practitioners
How to Verify Your NOC
When selecting your NOC, review the following on the official Government of Canada NOC website:
1. Lead Statement – Overview of the job and its purpose.
2. Main Duties – Must closely match your actual job responsibilities.
o Example: Cook (63200) = “Prepare and cook complete meals.”
o Jobs at Tim Hortons or McDonald’s do not qualify as “Cook” because they don’t involve preparing complete meals.
3. Employment Requirements – Required education, training, or certifications.
o Example: NOC 41200 University professors requires a Master’s or PhD.
4. Exclusions – Lists jobs that look similar but are classified differently.
o Example: Chefs are 62200, not 63200.
5. Additional Information – Context on job outlook, trends, or unique notes.
Why Choosing the Right NOC Matters
IRCC officers assess your application by comparing your job offer and work experience to the lead statement and main duties of your chosen NOC. If there’s a mismatch:
· Your application may face a Procedural Fairness Letter (PFL).
· You risk refusal for misrepresentation or incorrect classification.
This is especially important under Manitoba’s International Education Stream (IES), where “on-field and in-demand” rules require your job to directly align with both your NOC and field of study.
An incorrect NOC can cost you time, money, and even your chance at PR. At A&M Canadian Immigration Law Corporation, we carefully analyze your education, work experience, and job duties to identify the correct NOC.
Book your first free in-person consultation today with Dr. Muhammad Abrar, Canadian Lawyer, and reduce your chances of refusal.
