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Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): Complete Guide to Saskatchewan Immigration in 2026

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is Saskatchewan's provincial immigration program designed to attract skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and international graduates who can contribute to the province's economy and address labor market needs. As one of Canada's Prairie provinces with diverse opportunities in agriculture, energy, technology, and services, Saskatchewan offers accessible immigration pathways with lower competitive thresholds than larger provinces, making it an attractive destination for permanent residence seekers.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program in 2026, including all SINP streams and categories, the Expression of Interest system, eligibility requirements, occupation in-demand lists, application process, processing times, and strategic approaches to maximize your chances of receiving a Saskatchewan provincial nomination worth 600 Express Entry CRS points.

Ready to immigrate to Saskatchewan? Get a free assessment to determine which SINP stream best fits your qualifications.

What is the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program?

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program allows the province to nominate qualified individuals for Canadian permanent residence based on their skills, work experience, and ability to contribute to Saskatchewan's economy. A provincial nomination from Saskatchewan adds 600 points to your Express Entry Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, virtually guaranteeing you'll receive an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence in the next federal draw.

SINP operates multiple immigration streams targeting different types of candidates: skilled workers with Saskatchewan job offers or work experience, international graduates from Saskatchewan institutions, workers in specific in-demand occupations, Express Entry candidates, and business entrepreneurs. Each stream has unique eligibility requirements and selection processes designed to meet Saskatchewan's specific economic and labor market needs.

Benefits of the Saskatchewan PNP

  • 600 CRS Points: Saskatchewan nominations add 600 points to Express Entry applications
  • Lower Competition: Often more accessible than Ontario or BC programs
  • No Job Offer Required: Some streams don't require Saskatchewan employment
  • In-Demand Occupations: Regularly updated lists of needed occupations
  • Affordable Living: Lower cost of living compared to major urban centers
  • Quality of Life: Access to excellent education, healthcare, outdoor recreation

SINP Streams and Categories Overview

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program is organized into several main streams, each targeting different types of candidates based on their qualifications, work experience, and connections to Saskatchewan.

International Skilled Worker Category

The International Skilled Worker category targets workers from outside Saskatchewan with skills and experience in occupations in demand. This category includes three subcategories:

  • Employment Offer: For workers with Saskatchewan job offers
  • Occupation In-Demand: For workers in specific in-demand occupations (no job offer required)
  • Express Entry: For candidates in federal Express Entry pool

Saskatchewan Experience Category

The Saskatchewan Experience category targets workers already working in Saskatchewan who want to make the province their permanent home. This category includes:

  • Existing Work Permit: For workers with valid work permits already employed in Saskatchewan
  • Health Professionals: For physicians, nurses, and other health professionals in Saskatchewan
  • Hospitality Sector Project: For workers in hospitality sector (when open)
  • Long-Haul Truck Driver Project: For truck drivers working in Saskatchewan
  • Students: For international students who graduated from Saskatchewan post-secondary institutions

Entrepreneur and Farm Category

The Entrepreneur and Farm category targets business owners and farmers who want to establish or purchase businesses or farming operations in Saskatchewan.

International Skilled Worker: Employment Offer

The Employment Offer subcategory is for skilled workers who have a permanent, full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer in an approved occupation.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Job Offer: Permanent, full-time job offer from Saskatchewan employer in approved occupation
  • Work Experience: At least one year of work experience in past 10 years in intended occupation or related field
  • Language Proficiency: Minimum CLB 4 (English or French)
  • Education: Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent
  • SINP Points: Score at least 60 out of 100 points on SINP point assessment grid
  • Proof of Funds: Show sufficient settlement funds (unless working in Saskatchewan)

Approved Occupations

Job offers must be in occupations designated as approved by SINP. Most NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, and 3 occupations are approved, along with select TEER 4 occupations. Some occupations are excluded (check SINP's excluded occupation list).

International Skilled Worker: Occupation In-Demand

The Occupation In-Demand subcategory allows workers in specific high-demand occupations to apply for provincial nomination without a job offer.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Work Experience: At least one year of work experience in past 10 years in an occupation on SINP's In-Demand Occupation List
  • Language Proficiency: Minimum CLB 4 (English or French)
  • Education: Minimum post-secondary education equivalent to at least one year (certificate, diploma, or degree)
  • Educational Credential Assessment: ECA for foreign education
  • SINP Points: Score at least 60 out of 100 points on SINP point assessment grid
  • Proof of Funds: Show sufficient settlement funds for family size
  • Licensure: Proof of Saskatchewan licensure if occupation is regulated

In-Demand Occupation List

SINP maintains a specific list of occupations eligible for the Occupation In-Demand subcategory. This list is regularly updated based on labor market needs. Recent in-demand occupations include:

  • Information systems analysts and consultants
  • Computer programmers and interactive media developers
  • Software engineers and designers
  • Database analysts and data administrators
  • Various engineering occupations
  • Healthcare professionals (certain categories)
  • Skilled trades (certain categories)

Always verify the current In-Demand Occupation List on SINP's website before applying, as it changes periodically.

International Skilled Worker: Express Entry

The Express Entry subcategory is for candidates already in the federal Express Entry pool who meet Saskatchewan's criteria and receive an invitation from SINP.

How It Works

The Express Entry subcategory operates through invitations:

  • Step 1: Create federal Express Entry profile and submit Expression of Interest to SINP
  • Step 2: SINP reviews EOI pool and invites selected candidates
  • Step 3: If invited, submit SINP application within 60 days
  • Step 4: If nominated, accept nomination in IRCC system (adds 600 CRS points)
  • Step 5: Receive federal ITA and apply for permanent residence

Eligibility Requirements

  • Express Entry Profile: Active profile eligible for FSW, FST, or CEC
  • Work Experience: At least one year in occupation on SINP's In-Demand Occupation List or have Saskatchewan job offer
  • Language Proficiency: Minimum CLB 4 (English or French)
  • Education: Minimum post-secondary education (certificate, diploma, or degree)
  • Educational Credential Assessment: ECA for foreign education
  • SINP Points: Score at least 60 out of 100 points on SINP point assessment grid
  • Connection to Saskatchewan: Demonstrate ties or intention to settle in Saskatchewan

Selection Factors

SINP selects Express Entry candidates based on various factors including:

  • Work experience in in-demand occupations
  • Strong language scores (higher CLB levels preferred)
  • Post-secondary education
  • Saskatchewan connections (family, work, or education)
  • Age (younger candidates receive more points)
  • Adaptability factors

Saskatchewan Experience Category

The Saskatchewan Experience category provides pathways for workers already employed in Saskatchewan, making it one of the most accessible provincial programs for those with current Saskatchewan work experience.

Existing Work Permit Subcategory

For workers currently employed in Saskatchewan with valid work permits.

Requirements:

  • Current Employment: Working in Saskatchewan with valid work permit
  • Work Experience: At least 6 months of work experience in Saskatchewan
  • Approved Occupation: Working in approved NOC occupation
  • Permanent Job Offer: Letter of approval from current Saskatchewan employer
  • Language: Meet minimum language requirements based on NOC level

Students Subcategory

For international students who graduated from approved Saskatchewan post-secondary institutions.

Requirements:

  • Saskatchewan Education: Graduated from approved Saskatchewan post-secondary institution
  • Program Length: Certificate, diploma, or degree program of at least one academic year
  • Work Experience: At least 6 months (960 hours) of paid work experience in Saskatchewan (can be on or off-campus, during or after studies)
  • Job Offer or Employment: Have job offer or be working in Saskatchewan in approved occupation
  • Language: Meet minimum language requirements
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit: Valid PGWP if graduated from Saskatchewan institution

The SINP Points Assessment Grid

Most SINP streams require applicants to score at least 60 out of 100 points on Saskatchewan's point assessment grid.

Points Breakdown

Points are awarded for:

  • Education and Training (Maximum 23 points): Higher education earns more points
  • Skilled Work Experience (Maximum 15 points): More years of relevant experience earn more points
  • Language Ability (Maximum 20 points): CLB scores in first and second official languages
  • Age (Maximum 12 points): Ages 18-45 earn points, with ages 18-34 receiving maximum
  • Connection to Saskatchewan (Maximum 30 points): Close relatives in Saskatchewan, previous work/study experience, job offer

Maximizing Points

Strategies to increase SINP points:

  • Improve language test scores (CLB 8 or higher maximizes language points)
  • Complete additional education
  • Gain more years of skilled work experience
  • Establish Saskatchewan connections (visit, explore employment, connect with family)
  • Apply while younger (points decrease after age 34)

The SINP Application Process

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Review requirements for each SINP stream and identify which stream(s) you qualify for. Calculate your SINP points to ensure you meet the minimum 60-point threshold.

Step 2: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)

For applicable streams, submit an Expression of Interest through SINP's online portal. The EOI includes information about your education, work experience, language ability, and Saskatchewan connections.

Step 3: Receive Invitation to Apply

If selected from the EOI pool, you'll receive an Invitation to Apply. You typically have 60 days to submit your complete application.

Step 4: Gather Documentation

Collect all required documents:

  • Identity: Passport, birth certificate, police certificates
  • Education: Diplomas, degrees, transcripts, Educational Credential Assessment
  • Work Experience: Reference letters, employment contracts, pay stubs
  • Language: IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF test results
  • Job Offer: Letter of approval from Saskatchewan employer (if applicable)
  • Proof of Funds: Bank statements, investment accounts
  • Settlement Plan: Explanation of why Saskatchewan and how you'll settle

Step 5: Submit SINP Application

Complete and submit your SINP application with all supporting documentation. Ensure all forms are completed accurately and all required documents are included.

Step 6: Application Assessment

SINP reviews your application for completeness and eligibility. You may be asked to provide additional documents or information.

Step 7: Receive Nomination (if approved)

If approved, you receive:

  • Nomination Certificate: Official provincial nomination from Saskatchewan
  • For Express Entry: Nomination letter to accept in IRCC system (adds 600 CRS points)
  • For Non-Express Entry: Nomination to support permanent residence application

Step 8: Apply for Permanent Residence

With your Saskatchewan nomination, apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Processing times are approximately 6 months for Express Entry and 15-19 months for non-Express Entry applications.

Processing Times and Fees

SINP Processing Times

Processing times vary by stream:

  • International Skilled Worker - Express Entry: 3-5 months (approximate)
  • International Skilled Worker - Employment Offer: 4-6 months (approximate)
  • International Skilled Worker - Occupation In-Demand: 4-6 months (approximate)
  • Saskatchewan Experience: 3-5 months (approximate)

After receiving provincial nomination, federal permanent residence processing adds 6 months (Express Entry) or 15-19 months (non-Express Entry).

SINP Application Fees

  • International Skilled Worker: CAD $350 (non-refundable)
  • Saskatchewan Experience: CAD $350 (non-refundable)

These fees are in addition to federal permanent residence application fees (approximately CAD $1,365 per adult for processing and right of permanent residence fee).

Common SINP Application Mistakes

1. Applying to Wrong Stream

Carefully review stream requirements and apply to the stream that matches your situation. Applying to the wrong stream results in refusal and wasted processing time and fees.

2. Insufficient SINP Points

Not scoring at least 60 points on the assessment grid leads to refusal. Calculate points carefully before applying and ensure all claimed points can be proven with documentation.

3. Occupation Not on In-Demand List

For Occupation In-Demand and Express Entry streams without job offers, your occupation must be on SINP's current In-Demand Occupation List. Verify your NOC code is listed before applying.

4. Weak Settlement Plan

SINP wants to ensure nominees will successfully settle in Saskatchewan. Provide detailed, realistic settlement plans demonstrating research about Saskatchewan, understanding of labor market, and genuine intention to make Saskatchewan your permanent home.

5. Expired or Invalid Documents

Ensure language test results, educational credential assessments, police certificates, and other time-sensitive documents remain valid throughout application processing.

Frequently Asked Questions About SINP

Do I need a job offer to apply for SINP?

It depends on the stream. The International Skilled Worker - Occupation In-Demand subcategory does not require a job offer if you have work experience in an occupation on SINP's In-Demand Occupation List. The International Skilled Worker - Employment Offer subcategory requires a permanent job offer from a Saskatchewan employer. The Saskatchewan Experience category typically requires current employment or a job offer in Saskatchewan. Check specific stream requirements to determine if a job offer is needed for your situation.

How many points do I need for SINP?

Most SINP streams require applicants to score at least 60 out of 100 points on Saskatchewan's point assessment grid. Points are awarded for education (maximum 23), skilled work experience (maximum 15), language ability (maximum 20), age (maximum 12), and connection to Saskatchewan (maximum 30). Calculate your points carefully using SINP's official point assessment tool before applying to ensure you meet the minimum threshold.

What is the In-Demand Occupation List?

The In-Demand Occupation List is a list of occupations that Saskatchewan has identified as experiencing labor shortages. Workers with experience in these occupations can apply for provincial nomination without job offers through the Occupation In-Demand subcategory. The list is regularly updated based on labor market needs and currently includes various technology, engineering, healthcare, and skilled trades occupations. Always verify the current list on SINP's website before applying as it changes periodically.

Can I apply to SINP if I'm already in Express Entry?

Yes, if you have an active Express Entry profile, you can submit an Expression of Interest to SINP's International Skilled Worker - Express Entry subcategory. If selected and nominated by Saskatchewan, you'll receive 600 additional CRS points, virtually guaranteeing an Invitation to Apply for permanent residence in the next federal draw. You must meet SINP's requirements including having work experience in an in-demand occupation or a Saskatchewan job offer, and scoring at least 60 points on SINP's assessment grid.

How long does SINP processing take?

SINP processing times vary by stream but typically range from 3-6 months from application submission to nomination decision. International Skilled Worker - Express Entry applications often process in 3-5 months. After receiving Saskatchewan nomination, federal permanent residence processing adds approximately 6 months for Express Entry applications or 15-19 months for non-Express Entry applications. Total timeline from SINP application to permanent residence is typically 9-12 months for Express Entry nominees.

Do I have to live in Saskatchewan after becoming a permanent resident?

While permanent residents have the right to live anywhere in Canada, your SINP application is based on your intention to settle in Saskatchewan. You should genuinely intend to make Saskatchewan your home and typically should live and work there for a reasonable period after receiving permanent residence. Immediately moving to another province after nomination could be considered misrepresentation and may affect future immigration applications or sponsorships. Most successful SINP nominees settle in Saskatchewan long-term.

Can international students from Saskatchewan universities apply for SINP?

Yes, international students who graduated from approved Saskatchewan post-secondary institutions can apply through the Saskatchewan Experience - Students subcategory. You need a certificate, diploma, or degree from at least a one-year program, at least 6 months (960 hours) of paid work experience in Saskatchewan (can be on or off-campus work during or after studies), a job offer or current employment in an approved occupation, and meet minimum language requirements. This is one of SINP's most accessible pathways for recent graduates.

What occupations are excluded from SINP?

SINP maintains a list of excluded occupations that are not eligible for provincial nomination. Excluded occupations typically include those with adequate labor supply in Saskatchewan or those not aligned with provincial economic priorities. Common exclusions include certain retail managers, administrative positions, and entry-level service occupations. Check SINP's current excluded occupation list before applying. Even if your occupation isn't excluded, it must either be on the In-Demand Occupation List (for streams not requiring job offers) or be approved for the Employment Offer subcategory.

Can I apply for SINP while working in another province?

For the International Skilled Worker categories (Employment Offer, Occupation In-Demand, Express Entry), you can apply while living and working anywhere, including other provinces or outside Canada. For the Saskatchewan Experience category, you must be currently working in Saskatchewan with a valid work permit. If you're currently in another province and want to immigrate to Saskatchewan, consider obtaining Saskatchewan employment first or applying through International Skilled Worker streams if you have in-demand occupation experience.

Should I hire an immigration consultant for SINP?

While SINP applications can be completed independently, many applicants benefit from professional assistance, especially for ensuring all documentation meets requirements, calculating points accurately, preparing strong settlement plans, and developing comprehensive immigration strategies. A Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) like Azadeh Haidari-Garmash can help assess which SINP stream is most suitable, ensure applications are complete and compelling, and maximize chances of nomination. Contact us for a consultation about your Saskatchewan immigration pathway.

Ready to Apply for Saskatchewan Provincial Nomination?

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program offers accessible pathways to Canadian permanent residence for skilled workers, international graduates, and entrepreneurs. With competitive processing times, lower costs than some provinces, and diverse economic opportunities, Saskatchewan provides an excellent foundation for building your Canadian future.

Get Expert SINP Assistance from VisaVio

VisaVio Immigration Consultants specializes in all Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program streams. As a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC R710392), Azadeh Haidari-Garmash has helped numerous skilled workers and graduates successfully obtain Saskatchewan provincial nominations and transition to Canadian permanent residence.

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Additional Saskatchewan and PNP Resources

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About the Author: This guide was prepared by VisaVio Immigration Consultants, led by Azadeh Haidari-Garmash, a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC R710392) registered with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants. All information is current as of January 2026 and based on official IRCC and SINP guidelines.

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