Saskatchewan has introduced sweeping reforms to its Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) for 2025. These updates significantly reshape immigration opportunities for foreign nationals, international students, and work permit holders looking to settle permanently in the province.
While the changes are partly driven by federal cuts to Saskatchewan’s immigration allocation, they also mark a strategic shift to focus on priority industries and long-term labour market needs.
Key SINP Changes in 2025
- Job Approval Form (JAF) intake resumes after a temporary pause, with no further suspensions expected this year.
- Priority recruitment limited to Health, Agriculture, and Skilled Trades for candidates applying from overseas.
- Permanent closure of business immigration categories, including the Entrepreneur, International Graduate Entrepreneur, and Farm Owner/Operator streams.
- New sector caps introduced: accommodations, food services, retail trade, and trucking collectively limited to 25% of total nominations.
- Eligibility restrictions for open work permit holders, including some spousal work permits, due to retention challenges.
- Tightened rules for international students – only graduates of Saskatchewan Designated Learning Institutions remain eligible under the student stream.
Federal Allocation Cuts: Why the Changes?
In 2025, Saskatchewan received just 3,625 nomination spaces, a 50% reduction from 2024, and the lowest allocation since 2009. By comparison, the province welcomed 7,350 newcomers in 2024 and received 8,000 nominations in 2023.
Adding further pressure, the federal government now requires 75% of all provincial nominees to already be living in Canada as temporary residents. This has reduced Saskatchewan’s ability to directly recruit talent from abroad, forcing the province to prioritize certain industries.
Impact on Applicants and Employers
For Skilled Workers
- Greater opportunities exist if you are in healthcare, agriculture, or a skilled trade.
- Candidates in capped sectors (food services, trucking, retail, accommodations) may face longer waits or limited options.
For Business Applicants
- The closure of the Entrepreneur and Farm streams means fewer options for investors and business owners seeking to establish operations in Saskatchewan.
For International Students
- Only graduates from Saskatchewan institutions remain eligible under the student category.
- Students from other provinces can still explore alternative SINP streams, but pathways are now narrower.
For Work Permit Holders
- Some open work permit holders (including spousal permits) are no longer eligible.
- Employer-specific work permit holders continue to have options through the SINP, depending on sector and demand.
What This Means for Saskatchewan’s Future
Although these changes may feel restrictive, they reflect the province’s commitment to aligning immigration with labour market priorities. By focusing resources on critical industries, Saskatchewan aims to balance newcomer arrivals with sustainable growth and strong retention.
How Sawubona Canada Immigration Can Help
Policy changes like these can feel overwhelming. At Sawubona Canada Immigration, we help applicants and employers navigate the evolving SINP landscape with confidence. Whether you are:
- A skilled worker exploring eligibility,
- An employer seeking labour solutions,
- A student planning your pathway to PR, or
- A temporary resident impacted by new restrictions—
our experienced team provides clear, customized guidance to maximize your chances of success.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore your options under Saskatchewan’s updated 2025 SINP rules.