Saskatchewan Resumes PNP Program with 4 New Updates

On March 27, 2025, the Government of Saskatchewan announced a transformative update to the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP)—a move set to redefine the province’s immigration landscape.

After months of uncertainty due to the federal government’s drastic 50% cut to provincial nominee allocations, Saskatchewan has officially lifted the pause on Job Approval Forms (JAFs). The changes are sweeping, designed to adapt to new federal constraints while keeping Saskatchewan’s economy thriving.

Why This Matters: The Impact of the SINP Overhaul

This isn’t just another policy update. The SINP’s revamp is a strategic response to:

• Federal Cuts: The federal government slashed Saskatchewan’s nomination quota to just 3,625, the lowest since 2009.
• Shift in Focus: Prioritizing sectors critical to Saskatchewan’s growth—healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades.
• Employer-Driven System: A tighter focus on job offers within Canada, reducing pathways for new overseas applicants without Canadian ties.

What’s New? Key Changes in the SINP

Here’s what you need to know about the revamped program:

🚩 1. The End of the Pause: JAFs Are Back!

Employers can now sponsor foreign workers again, but only within the new framework designed to maximize economic impact.

🌍 2. Priority Sectors for Global Talent

• Healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades are now the top focus areas for overseas applicants.
• Applicants from other industries (like retail or hospitality) must already be in Canada on a valid temporary visa.

📉 3. Caps and Exclusions

• 25% nomination cap for industries like accommodation, food services, and trucking.
• Elimination of certain sectors: Spas, salons, and pet care (except veterinarians) are no longer eligible.

🚫 4. Goodbye to Entrepreneurial Streams

The Entrepreneur, International Graduate Entrepreneur, and Farm Owner/Operator categories have been permanently closed, signaling a shift from business-focused immigration to workforce-centric strategies.

What This Means for Applicants

If you’re planning to apply or already have an application in progress, here’s what changes:

✅ For Overseas Applicants:

• If you don’t have a job offer in healthcare, agriculture, or skilled trades, your chances have narrowed significantly.
• Applications without a Saskatchewan-based job offer will be returned, and fees are refundable upon request.

👨‍💼 For Temporary Residents in Canada:

• You may now have new opportunities to secure permanent residency, even if your job is in a non-priority sector.

Navigating the New SINP: Tips for Applicants and Employers

🔍 For Applicants:

• Overseas? Target high-demand sectors: healthcare, agriculture, or skilled trades.
• In Canada? Leverage your temporary status to apply for jobs in non-priority sectors.
• Stay Informed: Regularly check your application status to avoid surprises.

🏢 For Employers:

• Focus on Temporary Residents: They’re now your go-to for non-priority sectors.
• Upskill Locals: Reduce reliance on international hires with local training programs.
• Track Nomination Caps: Avoid delays by staying updated on changes.

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What’s Next? Saskatchewan’s Immigration Future

The SINP’s overhaul marks a new chapter in Saskatchewan’s economic story. While federal cuts forced tough decisions, the province is betting on a leaner, more strategic immigration model to fuel growth.

Will this approach pay off? Only time will tell. However, Saskatchewan’s model could serve as a blueprint for other provinces facing similar federal challenges.

Why the SINP Has Always Been Vital to Saskatchewan

The SINP has been the backbone of Saskatchewan’s economic growth since its inception. It has:

• Filled critical labour gaps in industries like healthcare and agriculture.
• Contributed to over 90% of the province’s economic immigration.

But federal cuts—slashing allocations and imposing new rules—threatened to derail this success. This new framework is Saskatchewan’s bold response to ensure its economy keeps moving forward.

Final Thoughts: Saskatchewan’s Bold Move in the Immigration Landscape

The 2025 SINP overhaul isn’t just policy—it’s a strategic pivot designed to address both immediate labour shortages and long-term economic goals. For immigrants, employers, and policymakers, understanding these changes is key to thriving in Saskatchewan’s new immigration era.