To support regional economic growth and diversity, the Canadian government has approved Manitoba’s request to extend temporary resident status for skilled temporary workers in Manitoba under the Provincial Nominee Program. Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship, made the announcement, highlighting the importance of immigration programs in sustaining the country’s economic stability and cultural richness.
The extension primarily benefits post-graduation work permit holders in Manitoba’s Skilled Worker Provincial Nominee Program Expression of Interest pool. These individuals play vital roles in filling job vacancies and contributing to Manitoba’s economy and cultural landscape.
Under the temporary measure, approximately 6,700 skilled workers identified by Manitoba will be allowed to continue working while their Provincial Nominee Program applications are processed. It is anticipated that within two years, eligible foreign nationals will receive official nominations from Manitoba, paving the way for their permanent residency.
The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing permanent immigration while reducing dependency on temporary residence. Although specific to Manitoba, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is open to collaborating with other provinces and territories to address their labor market needs and facilitate the transition of temporary residents to permanent status.
IRCC remains dedicated to working closely with provinces and territories to navigate immigration opportunities and challenges, ensuring a harmonious and sustainable approach to immigration across Canada.”
“Supporting Manitoba’s skilled workers will help the province meet their regional economic immigration goals. This measure supports our priority of transitioning a greater portion of current temporary residents to permanent residence and meeting local labour market needs. We remain open to collaborating with other provinces to transition more temporary residents to permanent residence, ensuring a strong and diverse workforce that has the skills, education and work experience to grow Canada’s economy.”
– The Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Manitoba’s future success depends on supporting new Canadians who have chosen to make our province their home. By working together to extend temporary resident status for potential nominees, we are taking proactive steps to retain the needed skills and knowledge to build a strong and diverse Manitoba workforce.”
– The Honourable Malaya Marcelino, Minister of Labour and Immigration