Manitoba Expands Work Permit Options 2026: 16 Occupations Now Exempt from Sector Requirements

Manitoba has introduced a major update to its immigration system, creating expanded work permit options in Manitoba for skilled trades workers. Under changes to the Temporary Resident Retention Pilot (TRRP), 16 occupations are now exempt from sector restrictions.

This means Manitoba employers across all sectors can now support work permit extensions in Manitoba for workers in these 16 skilled trades, even if their business is not in an officially approved sector.

At the same time, Manitoba has removed Hospitality and Food Services from the eligible sector list, signaling a clear shift in provincial labour priorities.

For employers and temporary foreign workers, these new work permit options in Manitoba could make a real difference.

Manitoba PNP Draw updates are out! Check latest CRS scores, invitations & eligibility—your chance to secure Canada PR starts now.

What Has Changed in Manitoba’s Work Permit Rules?

Previously, Manitoba employers had to operate within specific approved sectors to support a worker under the Temporary Resident Retention Pilot (TRRP).

Now, the province has introduced sector-exempt occupations, meaning these 16 skilled trades can qualify for work permit extensions in Manitoba regardless of the employer’s industry.

This expansion of work permit options in Manitoba aims to address labour shortages in skilled trades across the province.

16 Sector-Exempt Occupations Under TRRP

The following occupations are now exempt from sector requirements:

These skilled trades now have broader work permit options in Manitoba, regardless of whether the employer operates in agriculture, construction, manufacturing, or another industry.

Check your eligibility instantly with the Manitoba PNP Points Calculator—fast scoring to boost your Canada PR chances today!

Hospitality Sector Removed from Eligible List

Manitoba has also made a major change by removing Hospitality and Food Services from the list of eligible sectors.

Current Eligible Sectors (Non-Exempt Occupations)

1. Agriculture
2. Construction and trades
3. Information Technology
4. Food processing
5. Education
6. Healthcare
7. Manufacturing

Applications from Hospitality and Food Services employers received after February 4, 2026, will not be accepted — unless the worker falls under one of the newly exempt occupations.

This shift reinforces Manitoba’s focus on skilled trades and economic priority sectors while expanding work permit options in Manitoba for high-demand technical roles.

What Is the Temporary Resident Retention Pilot (TRRP)?

The TRRP is an employer-driven program that allows Manitoba businesses to support employees for work permit extensions in Manitoba without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Key Advantages of TRRP

1. No LMIA required
2. No job advertising requirement
3. Faster processing (as little as 60 days)
4. Employer-supported application process

Because it removes LMIA requirements, TRRP provides simpler work permit options in Manitoba compared to the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).

Discover top occupations in demand in Canada and boost your chances of PR, work permits, and high-paying career opportunities today!

Who Can Apply Under the TRRP?

Both employers and employees must meet eligibility requirements.

Employee Requirements for Work Permit Extensions in Manitoba

To qualify under the expanded work permit options in Manitoba, the worker must:

1. Have worked full-time for the approved employer for at least 18 months
2. Hold a long-term, permanent job offer
3. Have spent more than 50% of their time in Canada in Manitoba
4. Be paid at least the median prevailing wage for the occupation and region
5. Meet licensing or certification requirements if applicable

Additional Conditions for Certain Occupations

If the worker’s occupation falls under TEER 4 or 5 and wages are below the regional median:

The employer must provide additional support, including:

1. Paying work permit application fees
2. Providing reasonable access to settlement and integration assistance

These conditions ensure fairness while still expanding work permit options in Manitoba.

Why This Change Matters for Skilled Workers

These changes create significant benefits:

1. Skilled trades workers now have expanded work permit options in Manitoba
2. Employers across industries can retain key technical staff
3. Workers can avoid LMIA delays
4. Manitoba strengthens its skilled labour workforce

By exempting 16 occupations, the province is clearly prioritizing technical and mechanical trades that are essential to economic growth.

Why Manitoba Is Expanding Work Permit Options

Manitoba faces ongoing labour shortages in:

1. Heavy equipment maintenance
2. Automotive repair
3. Industrial mechanics
4. Agriculture equipment servicing
5. Transportation repair
6. Water treatment and infrastructure

By expanding work permit options in Manitoba, the province ensures employers can retain experienced workers who are already contributing to the local economy.

What Employers Should Do Now

Employers who have skilled trades workers in the 16 exempt occupations should:

1. Review employee eligibility
2. Confirm NOC codes match
3. Verify wage compliance
4. Prepare TRRP application documentation
5. Apply as soon as the eligibility requirements are met

The expanded work permit options in Manitoba allow businesses to act quickly and avoid losing trained workers.

What Workers Should Do Now

If you are employed in one of the 16 exempt occupations:

1. Confirm your NOC classification
2. Ensure you meet the 18-month requirement
3. Verify your wage meets regional median levels
4. Check licensing requirements
5. Speak with your employer about TRRP support

These expanded work permit options in Manitoba could help you extend your stay and stabilize your immigration pathway.

Conclusion: Manitoba Strengthens Its Skilled Workforce Strategy

Manitoba’s latest update sends a clear message: skilled trades are essential to the province’s economic future.

By expanding work permit options in Manitoba and exempting 16 occupations from sector restrictions, the province is:

1. Supporting employers
2. Retaining skilled workers
3. Reducing administrative barriers
4. Strengthening long-term labour stability

While the removal of Hospitality and Food Services narrows eligibility in one area, the broader expansion for skilled trades significantly increases work permit options in Manitoba for many technical workers.

This policy shift reflects a strategic move toward economic sustainability and workforce retention.

How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help

Visa Solutions 4u provides support for employers and workers seeking work permit extensions in Manitoba under the TRRP.

Services include:

1. Eligibility assessment
2. NOC code verification
3. TRRP application preparation
4. Wage compliance review
5. Employer guidance
6. Work permit extension documentation support

If you want to understand your expanded work permit options in Manitoba, professional assistance can help ensure your application is accurate and approved without delays.

Manitoba’s immigration rules are evolving, and skilled trades workers now have stronger opportunities than ever before.