Maple News reports that on August 19, Saskatchewan issued 496 invitations to immigration candidates through its Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). The latest Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw targeted candidates in two subcategories: Express Entry and Occupations In-Demand.
A total of 161 invitations were extended to candidates under the Express Entry subcategory, while 335 were issued to those eligible under the Occupations In-Demand stream. Both categories require candidates to have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) with the SINP and hold valid Educational Credential Assessments that demonstrate the equivalency of their foreign education to Canadian standards.
The minimum score thresholds for selection were close, with Express Entry candidates needing at least 71 points and Occupations In-Demand applicants requiring a minimum of 70. The draw highlighted 43 eligible occupations for Express Entry applicants and 61 occupations under the Occupations In-Demand category.
The SINP’s Express Entry subcategory is aligned with the federal Express Entry system, which manages applications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Candidates nominated through this stream receive an additional 600 points towards their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, significantly enhancing their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence from the federal government.
On the other hand, the Occupations In-Demand stream operates independently of the Express Entry system and is designed for skilled workers whose professions are needed in Saskatchewan’s labor market but who do not yet have a federal Express Entry profile. This pathway offers an alternative route to Canadian permanent residency for candidates meeting specific provincial labor needs.
The SINP continues to be an important platform for skilled immigrants aiming to settle in Saskatchewan, supporting provincial goals of economic growth and workforce development. As draws are held regularly, prospective immigrants are encouraged to maintain updated EOI profiles and monitor eligibility requirements.
With ongoing labor shortages in various priority sectors, Saskatchewan’s PNP draws remain a critical tool for attracting international talent to the province. Maple News will continue to provide timely updates on future draws and immigration policy changes across Canada.