Saskatchewan Launches Two Provincial Nominee Program Pathways for Skilled Immigrants

The Government of Saskatchewan has taken a progressive step by introducing a pair of fresh Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) pathways under the established Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). These groundbreaking channels, unveiled on August 30, cater specifically to professionals in the healthcare and agricultural sectors. Jeremy Harrison, the minister overseeing Immigration and Career Training, announced these initiatives as the province’s strategy to address the nationwide issue of labor shortages. Saskatchewan’s goal is to refine its immigration framework to better reflect the labor market’s evolving demands, simultaneously assisting employers in nurturing business growth.

The Agriculture Talent pathway is designed to bridge the workforce gap, matching the burgeoning labor needs in agriculture—a stalwart of Saskatchewan’s robust economic framework. With agricultural exports eclipsing $3.2 billion across four primary crop sectors in 2023, this field’s vitality to the provincial economy is undeniable.

The Health Talent Pathway aligns with Saskatchewan’s ambition to fortify its Health Human Resources (HHR) plan, consolidating all SINP healthcare recruitment endeavors into a single, streamlined process.

Who qualifies for these programs? To enter the Agriculture Talent pathway, aspiring individuals must fulfill a set of prerequisites, such as possessing a language proficiency of at least CLB 4, though some occupations may mandate a higher proficiency level. The criteria extend to a complete secondary education, a minimum of one year’s full-time work experience within the last three years (or six months of full-time employment with a SINP Provincial Nominee Program-approved job offer), a commitment to living and working in Saskatchewan, and securing a full-time job offer in an eligible agricultural position within the province.

For the Health Talent pathway, the eligibility terms are variable and depend on whether the applicant has a profile in the federal Express Entry pool. Essential requirements for all candidates include meeting Saskatchewan licensing standards, relevant post-secondary education, and a pledge to reside and work in Saskatchewan. Non-Express Entry candidates need a CLB 5 language proficiency and specific work experience stipulations.

In 2023, Saskatchewan Provincial Nominee Program (SINP) was the conduit for 7,350 immigrant arrivals, and the 2024 nomination allocation sits at 8,000, with projections anticipating nearly 20,000 new arrivals by the end of 2025. Saskatchewan is fast becoming a sought-after destination due to its affordability, moderate tax rates, and initiatives such as the Graduate Retention Program which offers tuition reimbursements to eligible graduates.

These new immigration pathways under the provincial nominee program are more than just conditions and requirements—they are part of Saskatchewan’s plan to invigorate its labor force with skilled professionals in high-demand sectors. With these initiatives, the province not only seeks to alleviate the immediate labor shortage but also to pave the way for a dynamic and prosperous economic environment in the years to come. Enthusiastic individuals around the globe who consider making Canada their new home should take note: Saskatchewan’s promising opportunities beckon.

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