What’s Happening in Saskatchewan?
Saskatchewan’s Immigration Minister, Jim Reiter, wants to give temporary foreign workers more time to stay in the province. He is asking the federal government to extend their work permits by two more years. This idea is inspired by Manitoba, which already got permission from the federal government to do the same. Saskatchewan is doing this because the federal government recently reduced the number of immigrants the province can nominate for permanent residency through its Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP).
Why Is This a Problem?
The federal government made nationwide cuts to immigration to reduce pressure on housing, healthcare, and education. But for Saskatchewan, this has caused serious problems. The number of people Saskatchewan can nominate under SINP dropped by 50%—from more than 7,000 to just 3,625 in 2025. Also, 75% of those nominations must go to people who are already in Canada. That makes it harder for new workers to get a chance. Since more than 90% of economic immigrants in Saskatchewan come through the SINP, many foreign workers could lose their chance to stay and may be forced to leave when their permits expire.
What’s Saskatchewan’s Plan?
Saskatchewan wants to follow Manitoba’s lead. In Manitoba, the federal government allowed 6,700 workers to stay until the end of 2025, even if their permits were ending. Saskatchewan hopes to make a similar deal so that temporary foreign workers have extra time to apply for permanent residency. Employers in Saskatchewan are also pushing for this because they are struggling to keep staff in key sectors like healthcare, trucking, and agriculture.
How Did Manitoba Make It Work?
Manitoba’s agreement allowed eligible workers to receive a 2-year work permit extension. This helped businesses retain employees, reduced worker stress, and showed that provinces and the federal government can work together. Saskatchewan is now hoping to negotiate a similar deal to protect both workers and employers from the ongoing impact of reduced immigration slots.
Who Will Benefit from This Extension?
If the extension is approved, it would help:
- Workers whose permits expired in 2024 or will expire in 2025 and are tied to the SINP.
- Employers, especially in industries like trucking, healthcare, and agriculture, that rely on foreign workers.
- Local communities that depend on these workers for economic and social stability.
However, this will not help those who have already received a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) under SINP.
Why Is This Important for Saskatchewan’s Economy?
Saskatchewan needs immigrants to fill job gaps that locals can’t. But with fewer nomination spots:
- Employers are struggling to find workers.
- Some industries, like restaurants and trucking, are limited to only 25% of SINP nominations.
- Other immigration programs for entrepreneurs and farm owners have been completely closed.
- Many skilled workers may leave the province or even go back to their home countries.
What’s Changing in SINP in 2025?
To manage with fewer nomination spots, Saskatchewan is updating SINP rules as of March 27, 2025:
- Priority will be given to key sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades.
- Food services and trucking can only receive 25% of the total nominations.
- Jobs like spa workers or pet groomers will no longer be eligible.
- Programs for entrepreneurs and international graduates will be shut down.
- Stricter rules will apply. Even if you have an open work permit, you might not qualify unless you have a job offer in Saskatchewan.
These changes will make it much harder for new immigrants to get nominated unless they meet very specific conditions.
How Will the Work Permit Extension Work?
If the federal government agrees, here’s how it would happen:
- You must have had a valid work permit on May 7, 2024, and be working in Saskatchewan.
- You would apply through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
- You might need a support letter from the Saskatchewan government.
- If approved, you’ll get a 2-year open work permit, which allows you to stay and work in Saskatchewan while you apply for permanent residency.
What Could Go Wrong?
There are still challenges ahead:
- The federal government might not approve Saskatchewan’s request.
- The extension will not apply to every worker—only those who meet the criteria.
- Employers may struggle to retain workers if they’re limited by SINP nomination caps.
- Workers in sectors like trucking and food services are already feeling anxious because their future is uncertain.
What Can Workers and Employers Do Now?
For Workers:
- Check if your work permit was valid on May 7, 2024, and when it expires.
- Explore other immigration options, such as Saskatchewan Work Experience.
- Speak to a licensed immigration consultant for advice.
For Employers:
- Focus on hiring workers already in Canada.
- Train local staff to reduce dependence on new immigration.
- Keep track of the latest updates from SINP on their official website.
What Does This Mean for the Bigger Picture?
Saskatchewan’s request for a work permit extension shows that provincial needs don’t always match federal policies. The federal government is trying to reduce immigration to ease the pressure on services like housing and healthcare. But in places like Saskatchewan, immigrants are vital to the economy. Other provinces like Alberta and B.C. are also adjusting to these changes. Around the world, countries like Australia and the UK are making similar moves—only selecting immigrants based on critical skills.
Conclusion
Saskatchewan’s proposed work permit extension is a temporary but necessary solution. It could help prevent worker shortages, support local businesses, and allow more time for workers to apply for permanent residency. If approved, it would be a lifeline for many workers and employers who are feeling uncertain about the future. For now, the best approach is to stay informed, understand the changes, and make a plan based on your situation.
1. Who qualifies for the proposed work permit extension?
Workers with a valid Saskatchewan work permit as of May 7, 2024, and whose permits are expiring in 2024 or 2025, may qualify—if the federal government approves the plan.
2. Will everyone get this extension?
No. It will apply only to eligible workers. If you already received an LAA under SINP or work in certain restricted sectors, it might not apply.
3. When will we know if the extension is approved?
Saskatchewan is still waiting for federal approval. There’s no official date yet, but workers should keep checking for updates from IRCC and SINP.
4. What if my job is now ineligible under SINP?
Unfortunately, some job types like spa workers or pet groomers are no longer eligible. You may need to explore other immigration pathways or provinces.
5. Can I still apply for PR without SINP nomination?
Yes, but it may be harder. You can explore Express Entry, Atlantic Immigration, or other provincial nominee programs that suit your profile.
6. Should I talk to an immigration consultant?
Yes. A licensed consultant can help you understand your options, guide you through the process, and avoid mistakes that could delay or block your application.
Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today!
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Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details.