If you’re already working in Manitoba or have close ties to the province, your path to permanent residency may be closer than you think. Through the Skilled Worker in Manitoba (SWM) stream under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), foreign workers and graduates with strong connections to local employers can apply to stay for good.
This stream is designed to support Manitoba’s workforce needs—helping employers retain skilled employees and helping newcomers build a life in one of Canada’s most welcoming provinces.
What Is the Skilled Worker in Manitoba Stream?
The Skilled Worker in Manitoba stream allows temporary foreign workers and international graduates already living and working in Manitoba to apply for permanent residence through provincial nomination. The program focuses on individuals who demonstrate long-term employability and are well integrated into Manitoba’s communities and labor market.
In short, if you’ve already proven your value to Manitoba’s economy and society, the province wants you to stay.
Key Eligibility Pathways
The SWM stream has two main categories:
1. Manitoba Work Experience
This category is for applicants who are currently working in Manitoba with:
- A temporary work permit (e.g., LMIA, employer-specific, PGWP).
- At least 6 months of continuous full-time employment with a Manitoba employer.
- A long-term, full-time job offer from the same employer.
- Demonstrated language proficiency based on job requirements (typically CLB 4–7).
- Genuine intention to live in Manitoba permanently.
2. Employer Direct Recruitment
This is for skilled workers living outside Canada who are interviewed and recruited by Manitoba employers during overseas recruitment missions or through direct employer outreach.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Receive a full-time, long-term job offer from a recognized Manitoba employer.
- Have relevant work experience and qualifications for the role.
- Meet language benchmarks based on the NOC of the job.
- Show intent to settle in Manitoba.
What Makes This Stream Attractive?
✅ No Job Offer from a Designated Employer Required (for PGWP holders)
✅ No LMIA required, reducing red tape for both worker and employer
✅ Faster processing times for applicants already living in Manitoba
✅ Supportive settlement services and community resources
✅ Streamlined pathway to PR for loyal, hard-working individuals already contributing to the province
The Application Process
- Create an Expression of Interest (EOI) profile on the MPNP portal.
- Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) based on your score and labor market needs.
- Submit a complete application through MPNP with supporting documents.
- Receive provincial nomination if approved.
- Apply to IRCC for permanent residence with your nomination certificate.
In-Demand Occupations in Manitoba
The Skilled Worker in Manitoba stream supports a wide variety of industries, including:
- 📦 Manufacturing & Logistics
- 🏥 Healthcare & Social Services
- 🧑🏫 Education & Childcare
- 🏗️ Construction & Trades
- 🖥️ IT & Tech
- 🛒 Retail & Customer Service
- 🚜 Agriculture & Agri-food
Note: You don’t always need to be in an “in-demand” job to apply—many other roles are still eligible if you meet the work experience and job offer criteria.
Final Thoughts
The Skilled Worker in Manitoba stream is ideal for those who’ve already begun building their life in Manitoba and want to stay long-term. Whether you’re an international student graduate, a work permit holder, or someone recruited directly by a local employer, this pathway rewards your commitment to Manitoba’s communities and economy.
If you’ve worked hard to establish yourself here, the province is ready to invest in your future.
Thinking about applying through the Skilled Worker in Manitoba stream? We can help you prepare your Expression of Interest, gather required documents, and navigate every step of the process.