Saskatchewan Halts Job Offer-Based Immigration Pathways – What It Means for You
The province of Saskatchewan has temporarily stopped accepting applications for job-offer-based immigration pathways under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). This decision, effective February 18, 2025, affects foreign workers and employers who were planning to apply for provincial nominations through the job offer streams.
Why Saskatchewan Paused Job Offer-Based Immigration Pathways
The Saskatchewan government has announced that it will not be accepting new Job Approval Forms (JAFs) for several weeks. This decision follows the federal government’s reduction in nomination allocations for SINP by 50% in 2025. The pause will allow the province to make necessary changes to its immigration programs.
What Is a Job Approval Form (JAF)?
A Job Approval Form (JAF) is a document that employers must submit to the SINP to hire foreign workers. Once approved, the employer receives a Job Approval Letter (JAL), which the foreign worker can use to apply for a provincial nomination. Since JAFs are currently paused, new Job Approval Letters will not be issued, delaying applications under job-offer-based pathways.
Who Is Affected by This Immigration Pause?
This decision impacts all applicants under the following SINP categories that require a Job Approval Letter:
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
Without an approved JAL, candidates in these categories will not be able to proceed with their SINP applications.
Are There Alternative Immigration Options for Saskatchewan?
Yes! If you still want to move to Saskatchewan, consider these alternatives:
1. International Skilled Worker – Occupation In-Demand
This program allows skilled foreign workers with experience in high-demand occupations to apply for a provincial nomination without a job offer. To qualify, applicants must:
- Have at least one year of full-time work experience in an in-demand occupation.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and wait for an invitation from SINP.
2. Express Entry System
Saskatchewan also invites candidates through the federal Express Entry system. Candidates with strong profiles can receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency through one of these three programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
If you have a high Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score or meet eligibility criteria for category-based selection draws (e.g., French proficiency), Express Entry might be a good option.
3. Rural Community Immigration Pilot
If you’re open to moving to a smaller city, Saskatchewan participates in the Rural Community Immigration Pilot. Moose Jaw is one of the designated communities where skilled workers may be able to secure a job offer from a designated employer, allowing them to apply for permanent residence.
What Should You Do Next?
While the job-offer-based streams are paused, you can explore other immigration pathways. If you are unsure which program suits you best, consider professional guidance.
Schedule a Free Express Entry Consultation Click Here to explore your options!
