Saskatchewan Expands Immigration Pathways for Temporary Foreign Workers

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is enhancing its Existing Work Permit stream to extend eligibility for permanent residency to temporary foreign workers in lower and intermediate-skilled positions.

Government Initiatives and Expansion Details

In response to the expansion, Martensville-Warman MLA Terry Jenson emphasized, “Through this expansion, our government is improving worker retention and directly addressing labor market gaps that Saskatchewan employers currently face.” This move aims to create more permanent residency opportunities, particularly for displaced Ukrainians and other international workers, bolstering support for Saskatchewan’s businesses and economy.

The SINP’s Existing Work Permit stream, traditionally reserved for high-skilled occupations and designated trades, underwent a significant expansion on November 1. This development includes 279 additional occupations in lower- and intermediate-skilled sectors, enabling eligible temporary foreign workers in Saskatchewan to apply for permanent residency. Criteria for application include meeting language requirements and possessing a permanent, full-time job offer.

Eligibility and Documentation Requirements

Applicants must hold an eligible work permit, a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) supported work permit, a francophone mobility work permit, or, for recently-arrived Ukrainians, a Canadian Ukrainian Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) visa.

Positive Reception and Immigration Goals

The expansion garnered positive feedback from displaced Ukrainians, with Elena Krueger, president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress of Saskatchewan, expressing enthusiasm about the increased options for newcomers. Saskatchewan, with its proactive approach to immigration, has secured increases in its annual allocation of provincial immigration nominees for the current and upcoming two years.

Provincial Perspective and Future Objectives

With over 16,000 job vacancies currently posted and a forecast of 112,260 job openings over the next five years, Saskatchewan acknowledges the multifaceted nature of addressing labor shortages. Brennen Mills, a partner at Saskatoon Fire and Flood, notes the SINP program’s expansion as a positive step, aiding in supporting employees through the immigration process and filling crucial positions.

Saskatchewan Immigration Accord and Future Plans

Provincial Immigration Minister Jeremy Harrison, pleased with the increased SINP allocation, emphasizes Saskatchewan’s goal of reaching 1.4 million residents by 2030. The province has proposed the Saskatchewan Immigration Accord, seeking autonomy in immigration-related decisions, including setting immigration levels, selecting skilled immigrants aligned with labor market needs, and controlling settlement and integration services.

Jason Aebig, CEO of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, stresses the urgency for the federal government to expedite the negotiation process of the Saskatchewan Immigration Accord. The goal is to empower Saskatchewan to dictate immigration levels and deliver services that best support newcomer retention and integration in response to the province’s growing need for a diverse and skilled workforce.