Saskatchewan’s Provincial Nominee Program (SINP) is evolving—and 2025 marks another significant shift. Whether you’re aiming to immigrate through the International Skilled Worker, Saskatchewan Experience, or Entrepreneur streams, you need to be aware of the new landscape to make informed decisions.
- Allocation Got a Makeover
- Saskatchewan’s yearly nomination quota was slashed by 50% in early 2025 due to federal immigration cuts. This was balanced with an increase of 1,136 additional slots in August 2025, bringing the total to 4,761 for the year.
- Despite the increase, experts warn this total still falls short when considering Saskatchewan’s labor and demographic needs.
- Most Nominations Now Reserved for People Already in Canada
- A new federal requirement mandates that 75% of SINP nominations go to candidates already present in Canada as temporary residents.
- Only 25% of slots remain open to applicants residing abroad, and even those are prioritized for healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades.
- Program Changes: Closures and Caps
- The province has closed the Entrepreneur, International Graduate Entrepreneur, and Farm Owner/Operator categories to new applicants as of March 27, 2025.
- Certain sectors hit capacity limits, including trucking, accommodation, food service, and retail. Applications from these sectors were returned when the 25% cap was reached.
- Express Entry & Occupation-In-Demand Applications Still Open
- The SINP continues to accept Job Approval Forms (JAFs) for the International Skilled Worker—Occupation In-Demand and Express Entry streams.
- These remain vital avenues for skilled applicants—especially now that entrepreneur pathways are closed.
Why These Trends Matter to You
- More competition, fewer spots. With reduced allocations and stricter eligibility, applications must stand out more than ever.
- Better odds if you’re already in Canada. If you have temporary status (e.g., work or study permit), your chances significantly improve.
- Entrepreneur categories are off the table—for now. If this was your plan, consider alternative pathways like federal Express Entry or other PNPs.
- Stay in-demand. Focus your application on high-priority sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and trades.
- Act quickly, strategically. With caps and closures tightening options, delays or incomplete files can spell missed opportunities.
VM Immigration Services Can Help You Navigate the New SINP Landscape. At VM Immigration Services, we specialize in:
- Evaluating your eligibility under the revised SINP framework
- Strengthening your Express Entry or Occupation-In-Demand profiles
- Advising on eligibility to apply from inside Canada vs. abroad
- Collaborating with professionals and employers in healthcare, trades, or agri-sectors
In 2025, the SINP is reshaping itself—fewer nominations, stricter priorities, and changed eligibility criteria mean applicants must pivot and adapt. With the right strategy and expert guidance, you can still succeed—despite the new hurdles.
Ready to move forward with clarity and confidence? Contact VM Immigration Services today to tailor your path through the updated SINP.
