Maple News reports that the province of Saskatchewan conducted a significant immigration draw on January 21, extending 502 invitations to candidates through its Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). These invitations mark the province’s ongoing efforts to address skill shortages in key industries by attracting international talent ready to contribute to its economic growth.
The draw targeted candidates under the International Skilled Worker category, specifically through the Express Entry and Occupations In-Demand subcategories. Of the total invitations, 189 were issued to candidates who had active profiles in the federal Express Entry system, while the remaining 313 went to those in the Occupations In-Demand stream.
All candidates invited in this round had to meet a minimum score of 77 points on Saskatchewan’s Expression of Interest (EOI) Points Assessment Grid. These scores are determined based on factors such as age, education, language ability, skilled work experience, and connections to the province.
The SINP uses the EOI system to prioritize prospective immigrants who show the greatest likelihood of economic success and long-term settlement in Saskatchewan. Applicants who want to be considered must submit an EOI profile, and only top-ranking individuals receive invitations in each draw.
This round targeted candidates with experience in 79 eligible occupations that align with Saskatchewan’s labour needs. While the specific list wasn’t published in the draw summary, the eligible occupations are typically focused on sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, engineering, skilled trades, and IT—areas where worker shortages persist across the province.
Maple News notes that Saskatchewan has steadily adjusted its immigration selection system over the past year to better reflect the province’s strategic priorities. For instance, late last year, the province updated its points grid to award additional points to bilingual speakers fluent in English and French, thereby promoting stronger integration outcomes.
Candidates selected through the SINP who receive a provincial nomination will effectively secure 600 additional points toward their overall Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This significantly boosts their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for Canadian permanent residence from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Saskatchewan’s latest invitation round showcases the province’s commitment to immigration as a key pillar of demographic and economic sustainability. It continues to pursue targeted immigration strategies aimed at welcoming skilled professionals prepared to build their future in Saskatchewan.