Your pathway to Canadian permanent residence through Saskatchewan business investment
On This Page You Will Find:
- Complete SINP Entrepreneur Program requirements and minimum investment amounts
- Detailed 160-point scoring system breakdown with maximum point strategies
- Step-by-step application timeline from EOI submission to permanent residence
- Business Performance Agreement requirements and compliance obligations
- Investment thresholds for Regina/Saskatoon vs. rural Saskatchewan communities
Summary:
The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) Entrepreneur stream offers a direct pathway to Canadian permanent residence for business-minded individuals with $500,000+ in assets. Unlike other immigration programs, there's no minimum score requirement to enter the candidate pool, but higher scores dramatically improve your invitation chances. The program requires a $200,000-$300,000 minimum investment depending on location, plus six months of successful business operation before qualifying for provincial nomination. With a maximum possible score of 160 points across human capital, business experience, and establishment plan categories, strategic preparation can position you for success in this competitive program.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- Minimum $500,000 CAD in net assets required, with $300,000 investment for major cities or $200,000 for rural areas
- No minimum score to enter EOI pool, but higher scores (up to 160 points) increase invitation probability
- Must operate business successfully for 6 months before applying for provincial nomination
- Language testing optional but recommended (up to 15 points available for CLB 6+ proficiency)
- Exploratory visit to Saskatchewan worth 15 points and strongly recommended for business planning
Maria Rodriguez had built a successful marketing consultancy in Mexico City, generating over $400,000 CAD annually. But when she started researching Canadian immigration options for her family, she felt overwhelmed by the complexity of federal programs and their lengthy processing times. That's when she discovered Saskatchewan's Entrepreneur Program – a pathway that would not only welcome her business expertise but actually reward it with points toward permanent residence.
If you're an established business owner or entrepreneur looking for a more direct route to Canadian immigration, Saskatchewan's approach might be exactly what you've been searching for. Unlike federal programs that primarily focus on education and language skills, this provincial pathway puts your business acumen front and center.
How the Saskatchewan Entrepreneur Program Actually Works
The SINP Entrepreneur Program operates on a unique four-stage process that bridges the gap between temporary work permits and permanent residence. Here's what makes it different from other immigration streams:
Stage 1: Expression of Interest (EOI) Submission You'll create a profile in Saskatchewan's OASIS online system, where you'll be scored against other candidates. Unlike the International Skilled Worker category, there's no minimum score threshold – but don't let that fool you into thinking preparation doesn't matter.
Stage 2: Invitation and Application During periodic EOI selections (typically every 2-3 months), top-ranking candidates receive invitations. You'll then have just 90 days to submit your complete application, including the crucial Business Establishment Plan.
Stage 3: Business Implementation After approval, you'll receive a Temporary Work Permit to establish your Saskatchewan business. This is where the real work begins – you must operate successfully for six months while meeting all conditions in your Business Performance Agreement.
Stage 4: Provincial Nomination Once you've proven your business viability, you can apply for provincial nomination, followed by federal permanent residence processing.
The entire journey typically takes 18-24 months from initial EOI submission to landing as a permanent resident.
Essential Requirements: Can You Qualify?
Before diving into point optimization strategies, you must meet three non-negotiable minimum criteria:
Financial Capacity: $500,000 CAD Net Worth This includes both business and personal assets. Saskatchewan requires third-party verification, so you'll need professional asset valuation. The province wants assurance you can sustain yourself and your business during the establishment phase.
Business Experience: 3+ Years in 10 Years You need demonstrable management or entrepreneurial experience. This could include senior management roles, business ownership, or a combination. The key is showing decision-making authority and business responsibility.
Investment Commitment: Location Matters
- Regina or Saskatoon: Minimum $300,000 CAD investment
- Other Saskatchewan communities: Minimum $200,000 CAD investment
This investment must represent at least 33.3% equity ownership in your Saskatchewan business (unless investing $1 million or more).
Maximizing Your 160-Point Score: Strategic Breakdown
Understanding the point system is crucial for competitive positioning. Here's how to optimize each category:
Human Capital Factors (75 Points Maximum)
Age Optimization (15 points maximum) The sweet spot is ages 30-39, earning the full 15 points. If you're approaching 40, consider accelerating your application timeline, as points drop to 10 for ages 40-54.
Exploratory Visit (15 points) This is often the easiest 15 points to secure. You must spend at least five working days in Saskatchewan within 12 months before EOI submission. Use this time strategically:
- Meet with potential business partners or suppliers
- Visit your proposed business location
- Connect with local business organizations
- Document everything for your Exploratory Visit Report
Language Proficiency (15 points maximum) While not mandatory, language testing can significantly boost your score:
- CLB 4: 5 points
- CLB 5: 10 points
- CLB 6+: 15 points
Even native English speakers should consider taking IELTS General or CELPIP General, as test anxiety or unfamiliarity with format can impact scores.
Education (15 points maximum) Only your highest qualification counts. A bachelor's degree or higher in Business, Agriculture, or Science/Technology fields earns the maximum 15 points. Trade certifications (minimum one year) earn 10 points.
Net Assets (15 points maximum) While $500,000 is the minimum, higher asset levels earn more points:
- $500,000-$549,999: 0 points
- $550,000-$749,999: 5 points
- $750,000-$999,999: 10 points
- $1,000,000+: 15 points
Business Experience Category (50 Points Maximum)
Entrepreneurial Experience (20 points maximum) This is where your business background really pays off:
- 4-7 years experience: 10 points
- 8+ years experience: 15 points
- Add 50%+ ownership: Additional 5-10 points
The key is demonstrating both longevity and ownership stake in successful ventures.
Business Revenue (20 points maximum) Your business's annual revenue significantly impacts scoring:
- $50,000-$99,999: 5 points
- $100,000-$249,999: 10 points
- $250,000-$499,999: 15 points
- $500,000+: 20 points
This is where established business owners have a major advantage over aspiring entrepreneurs.
Innovation Factors (10 points maximum) You can claim up to 10 points for:
- Export trade experience
- Registered patents
- Gazelle business experience (high-growth company)
These factors demonstrate your ability to create economic value beyond local markets.
Business Establishment Plan (35 Points Maximum)
Investment Amount (20 points maximum) Higher investment levels earn more points:
- $200,000-$349,999: 0 points
- $350,000-$499,999: 5 points
- $500,000-$749,999: 10 points
- $750,000-$999,999: 15 points
- $1,000,000+: 20 points
Key Economic Sectors (15 points maximum) Saskatchewan prioritizes certain business activities:
- Science and technology: 15 points
- Manufacturing: 15 points
- Export businesses: 15 points
- Rural business development: 15 points
- Rural business succession: 15 points
Positioning your business in these sectors can provide significant point advantages.
Application Timeline: What to Expect
Understanding the strict deadlines is crucial for success:
Upon Invitation (20 days)
- Pay $2,500 CAD processing fee
- Identify third-party financial verification service
Application Submission (90 days)
- Complete electronic application
- Submit Business Establishment Plan
- Provide all supporting documents
Financial Verification (180 days)
- Submit third-party verification report
- Complete assessment interview (in-person or video)
Post-Approval Process
- Sign Business Performance Agreement (30 days)
- Apply for Temporary Work Permit
- Attend arrival meeting in Saskatchewan (within 18 months)
- Operate business successfully (6 months minimum)
- Apply for provincial nomination
Business Performance Agreement: Your Roadmap to Success
The Business Performance Agreement (BPA) is your legal contract with Saskatchewan. It outlines specific commitments based on your application:
Ownership Requirements You must maintain at least 33.3% equity in your business (unless investing $1 million+). This ensures genuine entrepreneurial engagement rather than passive investment.
Active Management You're required to actively participate in daily operations and strategic direction. Saskatchewan wants working entrepreneurs, not silent partners.
Employment Creation If establishing a new business in Regina or Saskatoon, you must create two employment opportunities for Canadian citizens or permanent residents (excluding relatives).
Compliance Monitoring Saskatchewan actively monitors BPA compliance through business visits, financial reviews, and progress reports. Non-compliance can result in nomination withdrawal.
Investment Strategy: Location and Sector Considerations
Your choice of business location and sector significantly impacts both point scoring and practical success:
Urban vs. Rural Investment While urban centers require higher investment ($300,000 vs. $200,000), they offer:
- Larger customer bases
- Better infrastructure
- More networking opportunities
- Access to skilled workers
Rural investments, however, may face less competition and could qualify for additional government support programs.
Priority Sectors for Maximum Points Science and technology businesses offer the highest point potential, but consider your expertise and market opportunities. A successful traditional business often outperforms a struggling high-tech venture.
Succession Opportunities Purchasing existing businesses (especially in rural areas) can provide immediate cash flow and established customer bases, reducing startup risks significantly.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Underestimating Timeline Pressures The 90-day application window is tight. Start preparing your Business Establishment Plan and gathering documents before receiving an invitation.
Inadequate Financial Planning Beyond the minimum investment, budget for:
- Living expenses during business establishment
- Working capital requirements
- Professional service fees (lawyers, accountants, consultants)
- Potential business expansion needs
Weak Business Plans Your Business Establishment Plan must demonstrate thorough market research, realistic financial projections, and clear implementation strategies. Generic templates won't suffice.
Compliance Oversights Maintaining TWP status while operating your business requires careful planning. Ensure you understand all requirements before arrival in Saskatchewan.
Preparing for Success: Action Steps
Phase 1: Assessment and Preparation (3-6 months)
- Calculate your current point score
- Identify improvement opportunities (language testing, asset documentation)
- Begin market research for your Saskatchewan business
- Plan your exploratory visit
Phase 2: EOI Submission and Optimization (1-3 months)
- Submit EOI with maximum possible points
- Continue business planning and networking
- Monitor selection rounds and score trends
Phase 3: Application Readiness (Ongoing)
- Prepare all required documentation
- Develop comprehensive Business Establishment Plan
- Establish relationships with Saskatchewan professional services
- Secure financing arrangements
The Saskatchewan Entrepreneur Program offers a unique opportunity to combine business ambitions with immigration goals. While the process requires significant financial commitment and careful planning, it provides a more predictable pathway to permanent residence than many federal programs.
Your entrepreneurial experience isn't just an asset in this program – it's the foundation of your application. With proper preparation and strategic positioning, you can use your business background to secure not just immigration status, but also a thriving enterprise in one of Canada's most business-friendly provinces.
The key to success lies in understanding that Saskatchewan isn't just looking for investors – they want entrepreneurs who will contribute to long-term economic growth. If you can demonstrate that commitment through your application and subsequent business operations, you'll find Saskatchewan to be a welcoming home for both your family and your entrepreneurial ambitions.
FAQ
Q: What is the minimum score required to enter the SINP Entrepreneur program, and how competitive are the selection rounds?
Unlike many immigration programs, the SINP Entrepreneur stream has no minimum score threshold to enter the Expression of Interest (EOI) pool. However, this doesn't mean scoring doesn't matter – it's actually crucial for success. During periodic selection rounds (typically every 2-3 months), Saskatchewan invites the highest-ranking candidates from the pool. Recent selections have seen invitation scores ranging from 110-140 points out of the maximum 160. Your chances improve dramatically with higher scores. For example, candidates with 130+ points have historically received invitations within 1-2 selection rounds, while those scoring below 100 points may wait 6+ months or never receive an invitation. The competitive nature means you should aim for the highest possible score rather than just meeting minimum requirements.
Q: How much money do I actually need beyond the minimum investment requirement?
While the program requires $500,000 CAD in net assets and a minimum investment of $200,000-$300,000 (depending on location), you'll need significantly more liquid capital for practical success. Budget an additional $100,000-$150,000 for: living expenses during the 6+ month business establishment period ($3,000-$5,000 monthly for a family), working capital for business operations ($30,000-$50,000), professional service fees including lawyers, accountants, and consultants ($15,000-$25,000), and emergency reserves for unexpected business expenses. Many successful applicants recommend having $750,000-$1,000,000 in total accessible funds. Remember, you'll be operating on a temporary work permit initially, so your spouse cannot work immediately, making adequate financial reserves essential for family stability.
Q: What types of businesses qualify for the maximum 15 points in key economic sectors?
Saskatchewan awards 15 points for businesses in priority sectors: science and technology, manufacturing, export businesses, rural business development, and rural business succession. Science and technology includes software development, biotechnology, clean technology, and digital services. Manufacturing covers food processing, equipment manufacturing, and value-added agriculture. Export businesses must demonstrate clear international market potential with documented export plans. Rural business development involves establishing new enterprises outside Regina and Saskatoon, while rural business succession means purchasing existing businesses in smaller communities. To claim these points, your Business Establishment Plan must clearly demonstrate how your venture fits the sector criteria and contributes to Saskatchewan's economic priorities. Generic consulting or retail businesses typically don't qualify unless they have specific technological or export components.
Q: How does the Business Performance Agreement work, and what happens if I don't meet the requirements?
The Business Performance Agreement (BPA) is a legally binding contract outlining your specific commitments to Saskatchewan. Key requirements include: maintaining minimum 33.3% equity ownership (unless investing $1M+), actively managing daily operations (not passive investment), creating employment for Canadian citizens/permanent residents if required, and operating successfully for at least six months before applying for nomination. Saskatchewan monitors compliance through business visits, financial audits, and quarterly reports. Non-compliance consequences are serious – the province can withdraw your nomination even after approval, potentially affecting your permanent residence application. However, Saskatchewan provides support through business advisors and recognizes that businesses face challenges. Minor delays or adjustments are typically accommodated if you communicate proactively and demonstrate good faith efforts to meet commitments.
Q: Is the exploratory visit really necessary, and how can I maximize its value for my application?
While technically optional, the exploratory visit is practically essential – it provides 15 points (nearly 10% of maximum score) and demonstrates genuine commitment to Saskatchewan. You must spend at least five working days in the province within 12 months before EOI submission. To maximize value: schedule meetings with potential suppliers, customers, or business partners; visit your proposed business location and alternatives; attend local business networking events or chamber of commerce meetings; meet with economic development officers in your target community; and document everything thoroughly for your mandatory Exploratory Visit Report. This report becomes part of your application and should demonstrate serious business planning, not just tourism. Many successful applicants use this visit to refine their business plans, identify unexpected opportunities, and build relationships that prove valuable during business establishment.
Q: Can I include my spouse's assets and business experience in my application scoring?
Yes, you can include your spouse's assets in your net worth calculation, which is beneficial since higher asset levels earn more points (up to 15 points for $1M+ in assets). However, business experience scoring is more restrictive. Only the principal applicant's business experience counts for the 50-point business experience category. If your spouse has stronger business credentials, they should be the principal applicant. For the education category, only the principal applicant's highest qualification is considered. Language testing can be strategic – if your spouse has stronger English/French skills, making them the principal applicant could earn the full 15 language points. Asset verification must clearly show legal ownership or joint ownership of all claimed assets. This includes business valuations, real estate appraisals, and bank statements showing the principal applicant or spouse as account holders.
Q: What is the realistic timeline from EOI submission to becoming a permanent resident?
The complete process typically takes 18-24 months, broken down as follows: EOI to invitation: 1-6 months (depending on your score and selection frequency); application processing: 6-9 months (including 90 days for submission and 4-6 months for government review); work permit and business establishment: 6-12 months (you must operate successfully for minimum 6 months); provincial nomination application: 2-3 months; and federal permanent residence processing: 6-8 months after nomination. Factors affecting timeline include completeness of initial application, complexity of business plan, time needed for successful business operation, and federal processing volumes. You can expedite certain steps by having all documentation ready before invitation, conducting thorough business planning during your exploratory visit, and maintaining excellent compliance with all BPA requirements. Some applicants achieve faster timelines (15-18 months), while others face delays due to business challenges or compliance issues.
