Saskatchewan Provincial Nominee Program (SINP) – Your Pathway to Canada

Introduction Of  Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan and Alberta are the only landlocked provinces in Canada. Saskatchewan is located in Western Canada. Saskatoon and Regina are its major cities. 

The province is known for its robust economy and beautiful landscapes. Its economy relies heavily on agriculture, as well as key industries like timber and fishing.

As of 2023, the estimated population of Saskatchewan was 1,221,439. The province has seen growth due to an influx of immigrants from various parts of the world.

The province welcomed between 3,000 and 4,000 newcomers each year. That figure has now risen to 15,000. 

This is especially noteworthy given that Saskatchewan’s population is little over one million. The province is one of Canada’s most favored places for newcomers.

What Is The Saskatchewan PNP

The program was created in 1998. The goal is to meet economic and labor needs through immigration to the region. The program was effective, with seven out of 10 newcomers choosing it as their preferred immigrant.

Newcomers to Saskatchewan also enjoy high employment rates (76%) and a retention rate of over 85%, indicating their desire to stay in the province for the long term.

Because of its popularity, Saskatchewan is often seen as a “simple PNP” point for immigration, due in part to the variety of options it offers potential candidates.

The program includes an advanced subcategory known as Saskatchewan Express Entry, which falls under the International Skilled Worker category, and several basic subcategories.

The Enhanced Subcategory, aligned with the federal government’s Express Entry system, assigns applicants points based on the Comprehensive Rating System (CRS), with the highest-ranked individuals receiving invitations to apply for permanent residency.

Applicants nominated in the Enhanced Provincial Program receive an additional 600 CRS points, which greatly increases their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

Saskatchewan Immigration Streams

If relocation to Saskatchewan is your goal, you have four options to consider: 

• International Skilled Worker Category: This is for those who possess high-level skills and wish to establish a life and career in Saskatchewan. 
• Saskatchewan Experience Category: This is for foreign workers who are already residing in Saskatchewan, including those with a current work permit and international graduates. 
• Entrepreneur and Farm Category: This is open to individuals who aspire to actively run a business or farm in Saskatchewan. 
• International Graduate Entrepreneur Category: This is designed for international students graduating from a recognized post-secondary institution in Saskatchewan and planning to launch their own business in the province.

International Skilled Worker Category

The International Skilled Worker Category acts as an entrance for skilled professionals enthusiastic about making a positive impact on Saskatchewan’s thriving economy. This category includes four unique pathways designed for various situations, making it accessible to a wide range of candidates and ensuring that all valuable skills are utilized in the province’s progress. The  application fee for this category  is CAD $35. Processing time is different for different pathways. These four different pathways are as follows.

Tech Talent Pathway

The Tech Talent Pathway category is specifically designed for exceptionally skilled individuals who have received a job offer from an employer in Saskatchewan in one of the 11 tech occupations.

Eligibility requirements 

To meet the criteria for eligibility in Saskatchewan, you must fulfill the following requirements

• Language proficiency requirements.
• Must possess a permanent, full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan-based Employer for a qualifying position, 
• Comply with any necessary licensing requirements.
• You must have at least one year of relevant work experience within the past five years in the intended occupation, or a minimum of six months if working for a supporting employer.
• Provide documentation to verify your immigration status in Canada and obtain a minimum score of 60 points out of 110 on the point assessment grid.

 Employment Offer Pathway

The Employment Offer category is available to skilled workers who have a job offer from an employer in Saskatchewan. A job offer required for this category.  The processing time is approximately 4 weeks

Eligibility requirements 

To meet the criteria for eligibility in Saskatchewan, you must fulfill the following requirements

• Fulfill the necessary language proficiency requirements (CLB 4) 
• Obtain a permanent, full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer for a qualifying position
• Satisfy any necessary licensure criteria; Accumulate at least one year of previous paid work experience within the last decade in the desired profession.
• Provide documentation to verify your immigration status in Canada and obtain a minimum score of 60 points out of 110 on the point assessment grid.

Occupations In Demand Pathway

The Occupations In Demand category is intended for highly skilled workers with experience in a high-demand occupation in Saskatchewan, but have not yet received a job offer in the province. There is no job offer required for this category.  The processing time is approximately 35 weeks.

Eligibility requirements 

To meet the criteria for eligibility in Saskatchewan, you must fulfill the following requirements

• You must fulfill language proficiency requirements at a Canadian Language Benchmark level 4. 
• Must have successfully completed at least one year of post-secondary education or training.
• Provide documentation to verify your immigration status in Canada and obtain a minimum score of 60 points out of 110 on the point assessment grid.
• Must possess relevant work experience in an in-demand skilled occupation related to your field of education or training. 
• It is mandatory to obtain proof of Professional Status or Licensure, if the province of Saskatchewan requires it. 
• Moreover, you must possess sufficient funds to support your settlement in the province and have a well-thought-out settlement plan.. 

Saskatchewan Express Entry category

Saskatchewan Express Entry category is for candidates already in the pool of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) Express Entry and possess skilled work experience in an in-demand occupation in Saskatchewan. There is no job offer required for this category.  The processing time is approximately 37 weeks.

Eligibility requirements 

To be eligible for consideration in the Express Entry pool

•  You must possess an Express Entry Profile Number and a Job Seeker Validation Code and also fulfill the following requirements: 

1. Meet language proficiency standards
2. Hold a minimum of one year of post-secondary education or training, have relevant work experience in an in-demand skilled occupation
3. Provide proof of Professional Status or Licensure as needed by the SINP
4. Hold a certificate of qualification in your skilled trade if applicable
5. And have sufficient funds and a settlement plan for integration into the province.

• Provide documentation to verify your immigration status in Canada and obtain a minimum score of 60 points out of 110 on the point assessment grid

Application Process

Saskatchewan utilizes an Expression of Interest (EOI) system for its Express Entry and Occupations In-Demand sub-categories, wherein interested applicants should follow the given steps

• Applicants must first register their EOI through the SINP Apply Online portal. 
• The information on the application form will determine their eligibility for the program. 
• To enter the EOI pool, a minimum score of 60 out of 110 points on the EOI Points Grid is required. 
• The grid evaluates candidates based on five factors: education and training, skilled work experience, language proficiency, age, and connections to the local labor market. 
• Successful candidates will receive an invitation to apply during an EOI draw. 
• Once invited, applicants can proceed to apply for a provincial nomination from the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) through the same portal. 
• If applying through the Employment Offer sub-category, an EOI registration is not necessary for candidates with a job offer. Once the application is approved, candidates can apply for permanent residence directly to IRCC.
• For those applying through the Express Entry sub-category, Saskatchewan will enter their nomination details into the system, awarding them an additional 600 Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, increasing their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence in the next Express Entry draw.

Worker Category Saskatchewan Experience Category

For individuals who have chosen Saskatchewan as their home, the Saskatchewan Experience Category serves as an opportunity for further integration and progression. This category pays tribute to the valuable contributions of skilled workers, healthcare professionals, and seasoned long-haul truck drivers who are already residing in Saskatchewan. It consists of six pathways as  given below.

• Skilled Worker with existing Work Permit
• Semi-skilled Agriculture Worker with Existing Work Permit
• Health Professionals
• Hospitality Sector Project 
• Long Haul Truck Driver Project
• Students. 

Skilled Worker with existing Work Permit

The sub-category of Skilled Worker with existing Work Permit is open to skilled workers who have been working in Saskatchewan for at least six months and have a valid work permit. A  job offer is required  for this category.

Eligibility Requirements

To meet the eligibility requirements for the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), applicants must possess the following qualifications: 

• A valid work permit, a full-time job offer from an eligible employer
• At least six months of employment with the said employer
• Proficiency in English or French at a minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4
• Possession of a valid SINP Job Approval Letter, 
• And ability to demonstrate eligibility for any necessary licensure.

Semi-skilled Agriculture Worker with Existing Work Permit

The sub-category of Semi-skilled Agriculture Worker with Existing Work Permit is for individuals who have been working for at least six months with a valid work permit for a Saskatchewan employer, or have previously worked in the province for six months.  

They must also have a full-time permanent job offer in the General Farm Worker (NOC 8431) or Nursery and Greenhouse Worker (NOC 8432) categories. 

Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must meet one of the following criteria to be eligible under this sub-category: 

• They have held a valid work permit for a minimum of six months and have been employed by the same employer who is offering them a job in Saskatchewan. 
• They have previously worked in Saskatchewan for at least six months.
• They have received a permanent full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer in one of the following National Occupation Classification (NOC) occupations:

1. NOC 8431: General Farm Worker 
2. NOC 8432: Nursery and Greenhouse Worker

• Additionally, they must fulfill all other criteria of the sub-category.

Health Professionals

Health Professionals, such as physicians, nurses, and other healthcare workers who have worked in Saskatchewan for at least six months, are eligible for this category. 

Eligibility Requirements

Each medical position, whether for doctors, nurses, or other healthcare professionals, has its own set of requirements. 

• In most cases, applicants must possess a valid work permit, a SINP Job Approval Letter, and a permanent, full-time job offer. 
• Additional criteria may also need to be met.

Hospitality Sector Project 

The Hospitality Sector Project is for individuals who have been employed in food and beverage service, food counter attendant, kitchen helper, or housekeeping and cleaning roles in Saskatchewan for at least six months.

Eligibility Requirements

In order to be considered for employment in Saskatchewan, it is necessary to fulfill the following criteria: 

• Possess a valid work permit for positions such as Food/Beverage Server (NOC 6453), Food Counter Attendant/Kitchen Helper (NOC 6641), or Housekeeping/Cleaning Staff (NOC 6661)
• Have been employed in the province for a minimum of six months with an approved employer
• Secure a permanent, full-time job offer from an approved employer; hold a valid SINP Job Approval Letter
• Have completed at least a high school education; and meet the language requirement of CLB 4. 

Long Haul Truck Driver Project

The Long Haul Truck Driver Project caters to those who have been working at an approved trucking firm in Saskatchewan for at least six months. 

Eligibility Requirements

• Must have a minimum of six months of employment experience with an authorized trucking company while holding a valid work permit
• Possess a current Saskatchewan Class 1A driver’s license
• Secure a full-time and permanent job offer from their employe,
• Be in possession of a valid SINP Job Approval Letter
• Meet the CLB 4 language proficiency requirement.

Students

The Students sub-category is for individuals who have graduated from a post-secondary institution anywhere in Canada and have worked in Saskatchewan for at least 24 months. 

If the graduation is from a Saskatchewan institution, the requirement decreases to just six months of work experience in the province..

Eligibility requirements 

To be eligible for the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), applicants must have completed following requirements.

•  A certificate, diploma, or degree from a recognized institution, either within or outside of Saskatchewan. 
• They must also have a language proficiency equivalent to Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4. 
• In addition, they must have a minimum of six months of work experience in Saskatchewan and hold a valid Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP).
• Furthermore, they must have a permanent, full-time job offer from an eligible Saskatchewan employer in their field of study, as well as a valid SINP Job Approval Letter.

Application Process

To begin the process, you must first determine if you meet the eligibility requirements for any of the sub-categories offered. 

• Once you are ready to apply, you can do so through the SINP Apply Online portal. 
• Your application must be completed in full and all required documents must be uploaded in PDF format before submitting. 
• Upon submission, you will receive an email confirming receipt of your application. 
• The province of Saskatchewan will then review and evaluate your application before making a final decision. 
• If approved, you will be issued a provincial nomination, which you can use to apply for permanent residence directly with IRCC.

Entrepreneur and Farm Category

The Saskatchewan Entrepreneur and Farm Category exemplifies the province’s dedication to progress and sustainable development. 

Designed for innovative entrepreneurs and experienced farmers alike, this category presents an opportunity for success through business ownership and agricultural investment. 

Whether you aspire to launch a technology startup in Saskatoon or establish yourself as a farm owner in rural Saskatchewan, the Entrepreneur and Farm Category empowers individuals to turn their ambitions into reality. The application fee for this category is CAD $2,500 and the processing time is approximately 14 weeks. 

Within this category, there are two sub-categories: 

• Entrepreneur Sub-Category 
• Farm Owners and Operators Sub-Category. 

Entrepreneur Sub-Category

The Entrepreneur Sub-Category is intended for individuals who wish to invest in Saskatchewan by starting, purchasing, or partnering in a business. Active management within the business is expected. 

Eligibility requirements 

Applicants must possess following minimum eligibility requirements

• To be eligible, individuals must possess a minimum net worth of $500,000 CAD (or $300,000 under the Young Farmer Stream) 
• And it must be proven that this net worth was obtained through legal means with a verification rate of at least 80 percent.
• A minimum of three years of entrepreneurial experience in the last decade, with an investment of at least $300,000 CAD in Regina or Saskatoon, or $200,000 CAD in another community in Saskatchewan. 
• A Business Establishment Plan (BEP) is also required. 
• Additionally, unless the total investment is over $1,000,000 CAD, the owner must hold at least one-third of the business equity. 
• The business must also generate at least two jobs for Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents in Regina or Saskatoon
• And in the case of purchasing an existing business in these cities, the number of Canadian or permanent resident workers employed at the time of purchase must be maintained. 
• Residency in Saskatchewan with family is mandatory. 
• Upon approval of the application, the SINP will provide a business performance agreement that must be signed by the applicant with the Government of Saskatchewan. 
• Furthermore, the business must meet all other stipulated requirements.

Farm Owners and Operators Sub-Category

The Farm Owners and Operators Sub-Category is for experienced farmers with significant capital who are seeking to invest in a farming operation and settle in Saskatchewan. 

Eligibility requirements 

Applicants must possess following minimum eligibility requirements

• Farm operation knowledge and experience are essential
• A well-thought-out proposal for a commercial farming opportunity in Saskatchewan is necessary. 
• In addition, the Young Farmer Stream includes further criteria: a minimum of three years of involvement in farm ownership, 
• Management, or practical farming, as well as the ability to augment farming income with the employable skills of a spouse or common-law partner, taking into account their education and experience.
• To be eligible, individuals must possess a minimum net worth of $500,000 CAD (or $300,000 under the Young Farmer Stream) 
• And it must be proven that this net worth was obtained through legal means with a verification rate of at least 80 percent.

Application Process for the Entrepreneur Sub-Category

The Entrepreneur Category employs a different step process. 

• The first step involves registering an Expression of Interest with the SINP, which results in a point score being assigned to you. 
• The applicants with the highest scores are selected in each draw.If you are chosen, you will be invited to submit a formal application. 
• This must be done directly through the SINP Apply Online system. 
• During the assessment of your application, you may be contacted for a final interview. 
• Upon successful completion of the interview, you will be presented with a Business Performance Agreement (BPA) to review and sign. 
• This must be done within 20 days via email. 
• Once the BPA is submitted, you will receive your SINP Entrepreneur
• Approval letter, as well as a Temporary Work Permit Support letter.
• The next step is to apply for a temporary work permit within three months,
• Relocate to Saskatchewan and establish your business.
• Additionally, you must attend an arrival meeting within 18 months of the date on your SINP Entrepreneur Approval letter.
• It is crucial to arrive in Saskatchewan within 18 months after receiving your initial Temporary Work Permit Support letter.
• Following the transfer of your funds to Canada, maintenance of legal status in the country, and adherence to the Business Performance Agreement (BPA) for at least six months
• You may request a provincial nomination. 
• This nomination enables you to directly apply for permanent residence with IRCC.

Application Process for the Farm Owners and Operators Sub-Category 

• Before applying, ensure that you have all the necessary documents.
• Include your spouse or common-law partner, dependent children, and an employee in your current farming operations in your application.
• Send your application via email to [email protected]. 
• The SINP may contact you for clarification, additional documents, or an interview.

If your application is approved, you will receive two documents:

• Nomination Approval and Request for Approval Letter
• Business Performance Agreement

Net Worth Evaluation Process

Your net worth is assessed by the SINP through two financial service providers during the evaluation process.

Firm Name	Contact Information
KPMG	Address: 333 Bay Street, Suite 4600Toronto, Ontario, M5H 2S5 Phone #: 416-777-3887 Email: [email protected]
MNP Ltd.	Address: Regina, Saskatchewan, S4P 0J3 Phone #: 306-790-7900 Email: [email protected]

The International Graduate Entrepreneur Category

The category  is specially designed for individuals who have graduated from a designated post-secondary institution in Saskatchewan and plan to establish a business in the province. There is no application fee for this category and the processing time is approximately 14 weeks 

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for this category, applicants must meet following minimum requirements;

• Approved candidates must manage and operate their business in Saskatchewan for a minimum of one year.
• Being at least 21 years old
• Having completed a full-time post-secondary degree or diploma from a designated learning institution in Saskatchewan that is at least two years in duration
• Holding a valid Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for at least two years
• Having resided in Saskatchewan for the duration of their academic program. 
• Additionally, applicants must meet the language requirement of CLB 7.

Application Process

The application process for the International Graduate Entrepreneur Category is similar to that of the Entrepreneur Category. It consists of several steps. 

• The first step is to register an Expression of Interest (EOI) with the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), which will assess the candidate’s eligibility and assign a point score. The highest scoring candidates are selected in each draw.
• If selected, applicants must then submit an application to the SINP and provide a Business Establishment Plan (BEP) that aligns with the information provided in their EOI. 
• The application must be submitted through the SINP Apply Online system. Once all requirements are met and the application is approved, candidates will be nominated by the SINP for permanent residence in Saskatchewan.
• Upon completion of this phase, it will be necessary for you to enter into a Business Performance Agreement (BPA), which will be based upon the Business Establishment Plan (BEP) you have submitted. 
• The subsequent action involves actively managing your proposed business in accordance with the terms outlined in the BPA. It is imperative that you satisfy all requirements stated in the BPA prior to the expiration of your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). 
• Once all obligations under the BPA have been fulfilled, you may then proceed to apply for a provincial nomination for permanent residence. 
• This nomination will enable you to directly submit an application for permanent residence to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Saskatchewan Provincial Nominee Program stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for individuals seeking to embark on a new chapter in the Great White North. With its diverse range of immigration streams and unwavering commitment to fostering economic growth and cultural diversity, Saskatchewan welcomes newcomers with open arms and promises a future filled with promise and prosperity. So why wait? Seize the opportunity, unlock your potential, and embark on a journey to Saskatchewan—the land of endless possibilities.

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