Maple News reports that on September 15, 2023, the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) issued 621 invitations to apply for a provincial nomination for Canadian permanent residence. This round emphasized attracting tech professionals under Saskatchewan’s International Skilled Worker category through both the Express Entry and Occupations In-Demand sub-categories.
All candidates selected in this draw had experience in one of three high-demand technology occupations: Software Engineers and Designers (NOC 2173), Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers (NOC 2174), and Web Designers and Developers (NOC 2175). These candidates were required to have previously submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) with the SINP and hold valid Educational Credential Assessments, verifying the equivalency of their foreign academic qualifications with Canadian standards.
The SINP employs a point-based assessment system to identify candidates best suited to thrive in Saskatchewan’s labor market. Applicants are evaluated on five core factors: work experience, education, language proficiency, age, and their connection to Saskatchewan. Each EOI submission is scored out of 100 points, and the highest-scoring candidates are invited to apply for a provincial nomination.
In this draw, the minimum score required for both sub-categories was set at 68. However, candidates at this threshold needed to either show a strong connection to the province, such as a close relative or past work/study experience in Saskatchewan, or meet specific criteria including 10 years of work experience and a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of at least 8. Other candidates needed to score at least 69 to be eligible for an invitation.
Of the 621 total invitations, 455 were issued to candidates who were also part of the federal Express Entry pool. This stream manages eligible applicants under Canada’s three key economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates who had submitted an EOI to the SINP and met the minimum requirements were considered for this draw, further enhancing their chances of receiving permanent residency by gaining a provincial nomination.
The latest draw underlines Saskatchewan’s continued focus on attracting skilled tech professionals to support the province’s growing innovation and digital sectors. As Canadian provinces increasingly compete for international tech talent, targeted PNP draws like this help bridge regional labor gaps and support long-term economic development.
According to Maple News, the SINP remains a key pathway for skilled foreign workers seeking Canadian permanent residence, especially for those with expertise in high-demand sectors like information technology.