Manitoba Immigration: Employer Direct Initiative and Temporary Resident Retention Pilot Open for Applications

On September 2, 2025, Manitoba took another major step to support employers and strengthen its workforce through immigration. The province officially relaunched the Employer Direct Initiative (EDI) with updated eligibility rules and streamlined processes, while also introducing the brand-new Temporary Resident Retention Pilot (TRRP). These enhanced immigration programs are designed to give Manitoba employers better tools to hire and retain qualified workers, while offering new opportunities for temporary residents to stay in the province long-term.

Why the Employer Direct Initiative Matters for Manitoba Immigration

The Employer Direct Initiative is a pathway that allows Manitoba employers to hire international workers when local recruitment efforts fall short. By supporting employers who can demonstrate the need for foreign talent, this program helps address skill shortages and contributes directly to economic growth.

Key benefits for employers:

Access to global talent when local candidates are unavailable.
Support for workforce expansion in critical industries.
Contribution to job creation and long-term economic development.

For workers, being endorsed by an approved employer under the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) provides a strong pathway to permanent residence, opening the door to stable employment and settlement in Canada.

Temporary Resident Retention Pilot: A New Path for Workers

The newly launched Temporary Resident Retention Pilot is a unique initiative aimed at helping employers retain foreign workers who are already contributing to Manitoba’s economy. Many businesses rely on temporary residents, but until now, there were limited pathways for these individuals to transition to permanent residency.

The TRRP Bridges This Gap By

Allowing employers to keep skilled temporary residents already in their workforce.
Supporting workforce stability and reducing turnover.
Helping Manitoba meet immediate labour market needs while ensuring long-term retention of talent.

This pilot is especially significant for temporary residents who have already built careers, families, and community ties in Manitoba.

Manitoba Immigration: Employer Services Supporting Businesses

Through Employer Services, Manitoba continues to provide programs that help businesses thrive by attracting and retaining skilled workers. The updated Employer Direct Initiative and the new retention pilot complement existing strategies, creating a more comprehensive immigration framework.

Employers who qualify can endorse workers through the MPNP’s Strategic Initiatives, ensuring those employees gain a direct pathway to permanent residence. This not only supports business continuity but also strengthens Manitoba’s position in the global economy by securing the workforce it needs.

Why Work with an RCIC for Manitoba Immigration Programs

While these programs offer incredible opportunities, the application process can be complex. Employers and workers often face hurdles with eligibility, documentation, and compliance. That’s where a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) from ImmigCanada can make a difference.

Our Licensed Consultants Can Help By

Assessing eligibility for both the Employer Direct Initiative and the Temporary Resident Retention Pilot.
Guiding employers through program requirements and documentation.
Supporting temporary residents in transitioning from temporary to permanent status.
Ensuring applications are accurate, timely, and fully compliant with MPNP policies.