On February 18, 2025, the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) announced an immediate and temporary suspension of all new Job Approval Forms (JAFs). This suspension directly impacts employers and foreign nationals seeking provincial nominations for permanent residency through job offer-dependent streams. The province has not specified a resumption date, indicating the pause is expected to last “several weeks.”
Implications of the Suspension
The suspension of JAF intake means that employers are currently unable to submit new forms, which are essential for obtaining Job Approval Letters (JALs). Without a JAL, foreign workers cannot proceed with applications for provincial nomination under SINP’s job offer-based categories. However, JAFs submitted before February 18 will continue to be processed as usual.
Affected Immigration Streams
The suspension affects all SINP streams requiring a Job Approval Letter, including:
- International Skilled Worker Category:
- Agriculture Talent Pathway
- Health Talent Pathway
- Employment Offer
- Tech Talent Pathway
- Saskatchewan Work Experience Category:
- Skilled Worker with Existing Work Permit
- Agriculture Talent Pathway
- Tech Talent Pathway
- Health Talent Pathway
- Students
Employers and applicants involved in these streams will need to await further updates from the SINP regarding the resumption of JAF submissions.
Reason for the Suspension
The primary reason for this suspension is the federal government’s decision to reduce SINP nomination allocations by 50% for the year 2025. This significant reduction aligns with the federal Immigration Levels Plan for 2025-2027, which aims to decrease overall landings targets for Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). The pause allows the SINP to implement necessary program changes to adapt to the reduced allocations.
Alternative Immigration Pathways
For individuals still interested in immigrating to Saskatchewan, there are alternative pathways that do not require a job offer:
International Skilled Worker: Occupation In-Demand
This pathway is designed for skilled workers with experience in occupations that are in high demand in Saskatchewan. Eligibility criteria include:
- A minimum of one year of full-time, paid work experience in a high-skilled occupation within the past ten years.
- Completion of post-secondary education, training, or apprenticeship comparable to the Canadian education system.
- Language proficiency of at least Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4.
Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and, if selected, will be invited to apply for provincial nomination.
Express Entry System
Candidates can also consider creating a profile in the federal Express Entry system, which manages applications for three economic immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Canadian Experience Class
While a job offer can enhance a candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, it is not mandatory. Candidates with high CRS scores may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.
Next Steps for Applicants
Individuals affected by the suspension should:
- Stay Informed: Regularly check the SINP website for updates on the status of JAF submissions and any program changes.
- Explore Alternatives: Consider other immigration pathways, such as the International Skilled Worker: Occupation In-Demand stream or federal programs through Express Entry.
- Prepare Documentation: Ensure all necessary documents are ready for submission once the programs reopen or for alternative application processes.
While the suspension presents challenges, Saskatchewan continues to offer various avenues for skilled workers to pursue permanent residency. Staying informed and prepared will enhance the chances of a successful immigration process.
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