Maple News reports that Saskatchewan has received a modest increase to its 2025 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocation, with the federal government approving 1,136 additional spots under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). This brings the province’s total nominations for the year to 4,761, up from 3,625. However, provincial officials warn that the bump falls short of what’s needed to reverse recent federal reductions or address ongoing labour shortages in key sectors.
Earlier in 2024, the federal government implemented a drastic 50% cut to Saskatchewan’s PNP allocations—the lowest seen since 2009. In response, Saskatchewan temporarily halted new Job Approval Form submissions, overhauled SINP processes, and introduced stricter eligibility criteria, including sector-specific nomination caps. These revamped policies came into effect in March 2025.
Adding to the pressure, Ottawa now requires that 75% of all SINP nominations go to individuals already in Canada as temporary residents, significantly limiting opportunities for overseas applicants. This change has tightened the pool of eligible candidates, forcing Saskatchewan to focus almost entirely on domestic talent.
Priority continues to be given to sectors facing the greatest shortages, including healthcare, agriculture, and skilled trades. These industries benefit from expedited application processing. Additionally, up to 25% of the new nominations are allocated to capped but in-demand sectors such as trucking, accommodation, food services, and retail—many of which had previously hit their caps earlier in the year, resulting in returned applications.
However, some sectors have been removed from the SINP entirely. Businesses involving salons, spas, pet care services, and select other service industries are now excluded, reflecting a more focused and restrictive immigration strategy by the province.
Another major change is the suspension of regular SINP draws for the International Skilled Worker category. These draws, which used to run on a monthly basis to invite foreign skilled talent, have not occurred since September 2024. Prospective immigrants are now left uncertain about when—if ever—these draws will resume.
The shake-up has also closed long-standing business immigration streams. The Entrepreneur, Farm Owner, and International Graduate Entrepreneur categories are now permanently discontinued. According to the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training, the province is shifting its focus toward labour market-driven pathways to ensure better alignment with local economic needs and worker retention.
Revised rules now also impact work permit holders and international graduates. Spouses of temporary foreign workers on open work permits may no longer be eligible, and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders must have studied in Saskatchewan and be working in a related occupation to qualify for provincial pathways. Graduates from outside the province can still apply, but only through limited sub-categories such as the International Skilled Worker: Employment Offer stream.
While the increased allocation provides some breathing room, Saskatchewan officials remain vocal that the new numbers don’t do enough to counter the broader implications of federal immigration policy shifts. As Diane Robinson from the provincial immigration ministry emphasized, economic immigration must remain a priority if Saskatchewan is to meet its talent demands and sustain long-term economic growth.