Saskatchewan PNP Caps Reached: SINP Returns Applications
Saskatchewan SINP Returns Applications from Key Sectors as it Reaches 25% Nomination Cap
In a recent update, the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) has begun returning applications from candidates in several key sectors, following the implementation of a new cap on nominations. These changes are part of a broader effort by the province to adapt to new federal immigration requirements and limited nomination allocations in 2025.
Key Highlights
- Saskatchewan has hit its 25% nomination cap for candidates in transportation, retail, and accommodation/food services.
- Applications from these sectors are now being returned under the SINP’s current rules.
- Employers can still submit Job Approval Forms (JAFs), but new applications will not be processed unless the cap is reopened.
- Overseas applicants are now restricted to specific sectors: Health, Agriculture, and Skilled Trades.
- Federal changes in 2025 led to a 50% cut in PNP allocations, prompting major provincial adjustments.
- Saskatchewan has also made other changes, including closing certain immigration pathways and narrowing candidate eligibility.
What’s Going On with the SINP in 2025?
If you’ve been eyeing Saskatchewan as your Canadian immigration destination through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), there’s a big update you need to know. As of June 2025, the province has hit a limit on how many nominations it can grant to candidates in three major sectors — transportation, retail, and accommodation/food services.
This limit isn’t arbitrary. Back in March 2025, Saskatchewan introduced a new policy capping nominations for these sectors at 25% of their total annual allocation. Now that this threshold has been reached, any new applications from workers in these sectors are being returned.
So, what does that mean if you’re in one of these industries? Let’s break it down.
What Happens If You’ve Already Applied?
If you’ve submitted your SINP application under any of these three sectors and it hasn’t already been processed, it will likely be returned to you. According to confirmations from SINP representatives, applications in these categories no longer qualify under the current allocation due to the reached cap.
However, there’s a small silver lining — if any unused nominations become available later this year, there’s a chance Saskatchewan might reopen the pool for these sectors. But as of now, it’s a waiting game.
Job Approval Forms (JAFs) Still Accepted
Despite the cap on nominations, employers in Saskatchewan are still allowed to submit Job Approval Forms (JAFs). These are essential pre-approval documents that employers use to get permission to hire foreign workers.
Once a JAF is approved, the province issues a Job Approval Letter (JAL), which lets the worker apply to the SINP. While a JAL doesn’t guarantee nomination, it’s a critical step in the process — especially under the SINP’s employer-driven streams.
In short: while nominations are paused, the pipeline for future approvals remains open — at least on the employer side.
Stricter Rules for Overseas Applicants
In another significant shift, Saskatchewan has tightened the rules for applicants living outside of Canada. The province will only approve nominations for overseas candidates if they work in one of the following sectors:
- Health
- Agriculture
- Skilled Trades
For all other sectors, you’ll need to already be in Canada — likely on a work or study permit — to qualify for provincial nomination. This approach aligns with the province’s focus on transitioning temporary residents to permanent status, a trend we’re seeing across several provinces.
As of early June 2025, Saskatchewan confirmed that it still has room within its 25% allocation for overseas applicants — but only for those in the sectors mentioned above.
Why Is Saskatchewan Making These Changes?
It all comes down to federal immigration policy changes. In 2025, the federal government significantly reduced the number of nominations available to provinces through their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) — slashing allocations by about 50% in most cases.
On top of that, the feds now require that 75% of provincial nominees must already be in Canada. That’s a big shift, and it’s forced Saskatchewan to rethink how it uses its limited nomination spaces.
Other SINP Changes in 2025
To make room for priority candidates and ensure alignment with federal goals, Saskatchewan has made several other adjustments to the SINP this year:
- Closed: The Entrepreneur and Farm Owner/Operator immigration pathways.
- Removed: Eligibility for certain Open Work Permit holders.
- Limited: Access to the SINP for international students in some streams.
- Excluded: Occupations in spas, salons, and general pet care services (except veterinarians).
These changes reflect a shift toward more targeted immigration, with a focus on filling critical labour shortages and prioritizing candidates who are already contributing to the Canadian economy.
What Should You Do Next?
If you’re in one of the affected sectors or applying from overseas, you might be feeling a bit discouraged. But don’t worry — there are still pathways available to you. Keep in mind that other provinces continue to accept applications in various streams, especially if you’re already in Canada.
For example, the Manitoba PNP continues to offer nomination options for skilled workers and international students across a range of industries.
Also, keep an eye on SINP updates. The nomination cap could shift if unused spots become available later in the year — and having your Job Approval Form already submitted could give you a head start when that happens.
Final Thoughts
Saskatchewan’s changes to the SINP are part of a larger trend in Canadian immigration: a move toward prioritizing in-Canada applicants and targeting nominations to fill critical labour gaps. While these new rules may have closed the door for some, they’ve also opened opportunities for others.
If you’re wondering whether you still qualify or what your next steps should be, don’t wait in limbo. Reach out to an immigration expert or use a free assessment tool to explore your current eligibility and options.
Looking to stay updated on Canada’s latest immigration changes? Be sure to check out our other resources and guides on Canadian PNP pathways, and sign up for notifications so you never miss an update!
