Saskatchewan Proposes Two-Year Work Permit Extension for Skilled Workers Amid Federal Cuts
In response to significant federal reductions in the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), Saskatchewan’s Immigration Minister, Jim Reiter, is advocating for a two-year work permit extension for skilled workers. This initiative aims to provide stability to temporary foreign workers facing permit expirations and to support the province’s economy.
Federal Cuts to SINP Prompt Provincial Action
The federal government has decreased Saskatchewan’s SINP allocations by 50%, reducing the number of nominations to 3,625—the lowest since 2009. Additionally, a mandate requires that 75% of nominees must already be temporary residents in Canada. These changes have left many temporary workers in uncertainty, with expiring permits and limited pathways to permanent residency.
Manitoba’s Precedent: A Model for Saskatchewan
Manitoba has implemented a similar policy, allowing 6,700 temporary workers with expiring permits to extend their stay until December 31, 2025. This policy targets Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates whose work permits expired in 2024 or will expire in 2025, ensuring they can continue contributing to the economy while awaiting permanent residency. Minister Reiter is seeking to negotiate a comparable agreement with the federal government.
Eligibility Criteria for the Proposed Extension
To qualify for the proposed two-year work permit extension, individuals must:
- Hold a valid work permit on May 7, 2024, that has expired or will expire in 2025.
- Be employed in Saskatchewan.
- Meet federal eligibility criteria, including applying for restoration if needed.
Note that individuals who have already received a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) for the SINP are not eligible, as they can apply for bridging open work permits.
Economic Implications for Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan’s economy heavily relies on immigration to address labor shortages and drive growth. The SINP has been instrumental in filling roles that local workers cannot, with over 90% of economic immigrants arriving through the program. The federal cuts have disrupted businesses and workers alike, raising concerns about potential labor shortages and economic stagnation.
Navigating the SINP Changes
Effective March 27, 2025, the SINP has introduced several changes:
- Sector Prioritization: Overseas candidates in healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades are prioritized.
- Nomination Caps: Sectors like food services and trucking face a 25% nomination cap.
- Ineligible Sectors: Spas, salons, and pet care services (excluding veterinarians) are no longer eligible for SINP recruitment.
- Closed Streams: The Entrepreneur, International Graduate Entrepreneur, and Farm Owner/Operator categories are permanently closed.
- Stricter Eligibility: Applications under Saskatchewan Express Entry and Occupations In-Demand subcategories without a Saskatchewan-based job offer are returned.
These changes reflect Saskatchewan’s effort to maximize its limited nominations while meeting federal requirements.
Proposed Extension Process
If approved, the work permit extension would be administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) under a temporary public policy. The process would involve:
- Eligibility Check: Workers must be prospective SINP nominees with valid work permits on May 7, 2024, that have expired or will expire in 2025.
- Application Process: Candidates apply through IRCC, potentially requiring a support letter from Saskatchewan.
- Federal Approval: IRCC reviews applications, with processing times varying based on volume and documentation.
- Outcome: Approved workers receive a two-year open work permit, allowing them to continue working in Saskatchewan while pursuing permanent residency.
Challenges and Concerns
While the proposed extension offers hope, several challenges remain:
- Federal Approval Uncertainty: The federal government’s willingness to grant Saskatchewan’s request is not guaranteed.
- Limited Scope: The extension applies only to specific workers, leaving others without relief.
- Employer Strain: Businesses in non-priority sectors may struggle to retain workers.
- Worker Stress: The uncertainty surrounding permit expirations and SINP nominations has left many workers anxious.
How Workers and Employers Can Prepare
For Workers:
- Check your work permit status and eligibility for the potential extension.
- Contact the SINP at immigration@gov.sk.ca or 1-833-613-0485 for guidance on your application status.
- Explore alternative pathways, like the International Skilled Worker or Saskatchewan Work Experience categories, if you meet the criteria.
- Consider consulting a licensed immigration professional to assess your options.
For Employers:
- Focus recruitment on temporary residents already in Canada, as they are prioritized under the 75% federal mandate.
- Explore training programs to upskill local workers, reducing reliance on international hires.
- Stay updated via the SINP website for changes to nomination allocations or sector caps.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
