Saskatchewan PNP (SINP) Guide

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) offers pathways for skilled workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs to be nominated by the province for Canadian permanent residency. It helps Saskatchewan address local labour shortages while giving newcomers faster access to PR through provincial nomination.

What is Saskatchewan PNP (SINP)?

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is a provincial immigration program that allows the province to nominate qualified foreign nationals for Canadian permanent residency. It is managed by the Government of Saskatchewan in partnership with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Through the SINP, Saskatchewan selects candidates with the skills, education, and work experience needed to fill labour shortages and support provincial growth. Once nominated, applicants can apply to IRCC for permanent residency, either through Express Entry–aligned streams or non-Express Entry pathways.

  • Saskatchewan’s 2025 Provincial Nominee Program allocation was increased by 1,136, bringing the total to 4,761 nominations.
  • Priority sectors for immigration include healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades, addressing critical labour shortages.
  • The province created 19,800 new jobs year-over-year, leading Canada in employment growth.
  • Saskatchewan’s unemployment rate stood at 4.7% in August 2025, one of the lowest in the country.
  • With a growing economy and welcoming communities, Saskatchewan offers strong opportunities for skilled workers and their families.

Why Choose the Saskatchewan PNP?

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) offers several advantages that make it one of the most accessible and appealing provincial immigration pathways for newcomers:

  • Strong Job Market Demand: Saskatchewan actively invites candidates in occupations facing local labour shortages, giving skilled workers better chances of selection.
  • Lower CRS Cutoff through Express Entry: SINP nominations add 600 CRS points to Express Entry profiles, helping applicants with moderate scores secure an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
  • Family Inclusion: Applicants can include spouses, partners, and dependent children in their SINP application, allowing families to immigrate together.
  • Direct Pathway to Permanent Residency: A provincial nomination ensures eligibility to apply for Canadian PR through IRCC, offering a faster and more predictable route compared to federal-only programs.
  • Multiple Streams to Suit Different Profiles: The SINP has options for skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs, making it flexible for a wide range of applicants.

Saskatchewan PNP Streams

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) offers several streams designed to attract skilled workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs who can contribute to the province’s economy. Each stream has its own requirements and provides a pathway to Canadian permanent residency.

International Skilled Worker

This category is for skilled workers who want to live and work in Saskatchewan. It is divided into sub-streams such as:

  • Express Entry: For candidates already in the federal Express Entry pool who meet Saskatchewan’s criteria. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, increasing chances of permanent residency.
  • Occupation in Demand: For highly skilled workers in occupations that are facing shortages in Saskatchewan but who may not yet have an Express Entry profile.
  • Employment Offer: For skilled workers with a permanent, full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer in an eligible occupation.

Saskatchewan Experience

This stream is for foreign nationals already working and living in Saskatchewan on a valid work permit. It includes sub-streams for existing workers, health professionals, international students, and hospitality sector workers. Applicants must typically have a valid job offer and demonstrate their intent to continue residing in the province.

Entrepreneur & Farm Stream

This stream targets individuals who wish to own, actively manage, or invest in a business in Saskatchewan. Applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), meet net worth and investment requirements, and commit to a Business Performance Agreement. A separate Farm Owner and Operator pathway is available for those interested in investing in and operating agricultural operations in the province.

Saskatchewan PNP Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), applicants must meet the minimum eligibility standards set by the province and, in some cases, federal immigration requirements. The key criteria include:

  • Points Assessment Grid: Achieve at least 60 points out of 110 on the SINP assessment grid. Points are awarded for factors such as education, work experience, age, language ability, and adaptability.
  • Education & Credential Assessment: Hold a minimum of a high school diploma. For education completed outside Canada, an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) may be required to confirm equivalency.
  • Work Experience: Possess relevant work experience in a skilled occupation (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) that is in demand in Saskatchewan. Experience must be verifiable and meet the requirements of the chosen stream.
  • Language Proficiency: Demonstrate English or French ability through approved tests such as IELTS General Training, CELPIP-General, PTE Core, TEF Canada, or TCF Canada. The minimum score is typically CLB 4 or higher, depending on the stream.
  • Job Offer (where applicable): For certain sub-streams such as Employment Offer or Saskatchewan Experience, a valid full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer is required.
  • Proof of Funds: Show evidence of sufficient settlement funds to support yourself and your family, as per the amounts updated annually by IRCC. Applicants must also demonstrate a genuine intent to live and work in Saskatchewan.

Saskatchewan PNP Eligibility Criteria

Saskatchewan PNP Application Process

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Ensure you meet the basic requirements of the SINP, including scoring at least 60 points on the SINP assessment grid, having the required education, language skills, and relevant work experience.

Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Create an online profile and submit an EOI to the Saskatchewan government. Your profile will be ranked based on points, and candidates with the highest scores and matching labour market needs are selected in draws.

Step 3: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If your EOI is selected, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from the SINP. This allows you to move forward with a full application.

Step 4: Submit Full Application & Pay Fees

Complete the official SINP application by submitting all required documents, including identification, education, work experience, language test results, proof of funds, and job offer (if applicable). Pay the application processing fee, which is currently CAD $350 for most SINP categories.

Step 5: Receive Provincial Nomination

If your application is approved, Saskatchewan will issue a Provincial Nomination Certificate. For Express Entry candidates, this nomination adds 600 CRS points, ensuring an Invitation to Apply for Canadian permanent residency.

Step 6: Apply for Permanent Residence with IRCC

With the provincial nomination, submit your complete application for permanent residence to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This includes paying federal fees, providing biometrics, and submitting police and medical clearances. IRCC makes the final decision on granting permanent residency.

Saskatchewan PNP Fees

Category Applicant Type Fee (CAD) Notes
SINP Application Fee Most SINP categories $350 Non-refundable provincial processing fee.
Federal PR Fees (IRCC) Principal applicant $1,525 Includes $950 processing fee + $575 Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF).
Spouse/partner $1,525 Same structure as principal applicant.
Dependent child $260 Processing fee only; no RPRF required.
Biometrics $85 per person / $170 family max Required for most applicants.

Saskatchewan PNP Processing Time

The processing time for the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) depends on the stage of the application:

Stage of Process Typical Timeline
EOI Selection Ongoing, through regular provincial draws
Provincial Nomination Processing 3 to 6 months (average)
PR Application (IRCC Stage) 9 to 12 months (average)

Saskatchewan PNP Updates

  • The federal government reduced Saskatchewan’s nomination allocations by 50%, requiring the province to adjust its immigration program.
  • In February 2025, Saskatchewan temporarily paused new intake of Job Approval Forms (JAFs) for all job-offer based streams.
  • The pause was lifted in March 2025, and employers can now submit new JAFs under updated rules.
  • To manage reduced allocations, Saskatchewan introduced sector caps — sectors such as Accommodations & Food Services, Retail Trade, and Trucking may receive no more than 25% of total annual nominations.
  • The province permanently closed the Entrepreneur, International Graduate Entrepreneur, and Farm Owner/Operator categories.
  • Overseas recruitment is now limited to three priority sectors: Health, Agriculture, and Skilled Trades.
  • New rules exclude some open work permit holders, update requirements for international students, and restrict certain business types (e.g., spas, salons, pet care services, except veterinarians) from participating in the program.

Benefits of Applying Through SINP

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) offers a number of advantages for skilled workers, graduates, and entrepreneurs who want to settle in the province. Key benefits include:

  • Faster Processing Times: Applications submitted through SINP are often processed more quickly compared to some federal immigration programs.
  • Lower CRS Requirement: Through the Express Entry sub-category, a provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, ensuring a much higher chance of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
  • Occupation in Demand Pathway: Applicants may be eligible to apply even without a job offer, provided their occupation is in demand in Saskatchewan.
  • Job Offer Opportunities: For those with Saskatchewan employment offers, SINP provides a direct and reliable pathway to permanent residency.
  • Family Inclusion: Applicants can include their spouse or partner and dependent children in their SINP application, allowing the entire family to immigrate together.
  • Support for International Graduates: Specific sub-streams are tailored for graduates of Saskatchewan institutions, making it easier for students to transition to permanent residency.
  • Employer-Driven Streams: The program helps Saskatchewan employers fill labour shortages by supporting foreign workers who are already contributing to the province’s economy.
  • Settlement in a Growing Province: Saskatchewan offers a high quality of life, affordable living costs, and growing job opportunities, making it an attractive destination for newcomers.

How Y-Axis Can Help You?

We have the best team of immigration experts who are ready to help you. Our team has years of experience with the nuances of immigrating to Canada and will help you choose an apt pathway tailored just for you. Y-Axis provides the following unbiased services for every client based on their preferences and requirements:

Looking for Inspiration

Explore what Global Citizens have to say about Y-Axis in shaping their future

Kavitha Thirumoorthy

Australia Skilled Migration Visa

One of our client Kavitha applied for Au

Read More...

Subhashini

Australia PR Visa

Ms. Subhashini got Australia Permanent R

Read More...

Varun Mathur

Australia PR Visa

Our client Varun Mathur gave a good feed

Read More...

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the Saskatchewan PNP?

The process starts by determining which stream you are eligible for, whether it's for skilled workers, international graduates, or entrepreneurs. After that, you need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Saskatchewan online portal. If your profile is selected, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), and then you can submit your full application, including all required documentation, such as proof of work experience, language proficiency, and educational qualifications.

How much funds are required for Saskatchewan PNP?

​​​​The amount of funds required for the Saskatchewan PNP depends on the size of your family. A single applicant must show at least CAD 12,000 in funds, and additional amounts are required for each accompanying family member. This ensures that applicants can support themselves and their families upon arrival in Saskatchewan. The funds must be readily available and not tied up in assets. Proof of funds may include bank statements, savings accounts, or other financial documents.

What is the processing time for Saskatchewan PNP?

Processing times vary depending on the stream. For the International Skilled Worker stream, the processing time is typically 4 to 6 months, while the Saskatchewan Experience Stream takes about 3 to 5 months. The Entrepreneur Stream, which involves business evaluations and investment considerations, takes 12 to 18 months. The International Graduate Entrepreneur Stream generally takes 6 to 9 months. It’s important to submit a complete and accurate application to avoid delays and speed up the process.

How can I use the Saskatchewan PNP points calculator?

​​​​The Saskatchewan PNP points calculator helps applicants determine their eligibility for the program. The calculator assesses various factors such as age, education, work experience, and language proficiency to calculate a points score. A higher score increases your chances of being invited to apply. The tool provides an estimate of how well your profile matches Saskatchewan’s criteria, allowing you to adjust your application if necessary before submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).

What are the in-demand occupations for Saskatchewan PNP?

​​​​​​Saskatchewan targets occupations that are in high demand due to labor shortages in the province. These include fields such as healthcare (nurses, physicians), agriculture (farm workers, agricultural managers), mining (engineers, technicians), technology (software developers, IT professionals), and engineering (civil, mechanical engineers). The Occupations in Demand list is updated regularly to reflect the province’s evolving labor market needs. Applicants with experience in these fields have a better chance of being nominated through the Saskatchewan PNP.

Who can apply for the Saskatchewan PNP?

​​​​​​The Saskatchewan PNP is open to skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates who meet the eligibility requirements of one of the available streams. Skilled workers with experience in high-demand occupations, international students who have graduated from Saskatchewan institutions, and entrepreneurs looking to invest or start a business in Saskatchewan are eligible to apply. The program is designed for individuals who can contribute to Saskatchewan’s labor market and economy, helping address the province's specific needs in various sectors.

How do I apply for the Saskatchewan PNP?

The process starts by determining which stream you are eligible for, whether it's for skilled workers, international graduates, or entrepreneurs. After that, you need to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Saskatchewan online portal. If your profile is selected, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), and then you can submit your full application, including all required documentation, such as proof of work experience, language proficiency, and educational qualifications.

What is the minimum score for Saskatchewan PNP Visa?

To qualify for most International Skilled Worker (ISW) streams under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), you must score at least 60 points out of 110 on the SINP assessment grid. This grid evaluates factors such as your education, work experience, language ability, age, and any ties to Saskatchewan, like a valid job offer or past work/study experience. Meeting the minimum score makes you eligible to apply, but higher scores increase your chances of being selected in draws, as invitations are typically issued to candidates with the most competitive profiles.

Do I need a job offer for Saskatchewan PNP?

A job offer is required in some streams but not in all. For example, the International Skilled Worker – Employment Offer stream requires you to have a permanent, full-time job offer from an employer in Saskatchewan. However, other popular streams, such as the Occupations in Demand stream and the International Skilled Worker – Express Entry stream, do not require a job offer. Instead, you need to have experience in an eligible occupation and meet the other criteria. This flexibility makes Saskatchewan an attractive option for candidates who may not yet have secured employment in the province.

How long does the SINP process take in 2025?

The processing times vary depending on the stream and volume of applications. On average, applications in the International Skilled Worker Employment Offer stream take about 12 weeks to process. Some specialized sub-streams, such as the Tech Talent Pathway, may take around 15 weeks, while applications under agriculture and healthcare categories may be processed in as little as 4 to 5 weeks. Experience category applications, such as those for candidates already working in the province, often take around 11 to 13 weeks. Timelines can change based on how complete your application is and the overall demand at the time.

What is the difference between SINP Express Entry and Occupation in Demand?
  • The International Skilled Worker – Express Entry stream is aligned with Canada’s federal Express Entry system. To apply, you must have an active Express Entry profile and meet both federal and provincial requirements. It does not always require a job offer, but you must meet language and education standards set by Express Entry.
  • The Occupations in Demand stream, on the other hand, is for applicants who do not have an Express Entry profile but have work experience in one of Saskatchewan’s listed in-demand occupations. This stream also does not require a job offer but focuses on filling specific labour shortages in the province.
How much are the Saskatchewan PNP Visa fees?

For the International Skilled Worker – Express Entry stream, there is a non-refundable application fee of CAD $500. This fee applies to each application and must be paid to the province when submitting your documents. Other streams may also have the same provincial fee, while some categories may not require an additional provincial charge. Regardless of the stream, once nominated, applicants are also responsible for paying federal immigration processing fees to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), which include the application processing fee, the right of permanent residence fee, and biometrics fees.