Saskatchewan’s Immigration Minister, Jim Reiter is preparing to request a two-year work permit extension for temporary foreign workers impacted by federal cuts to the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP).
The would replicate a similar agreement reached by Manitoba and the federal government earlier this year.
According to Immigration News Canada (INC), Saskatchewan’s response follows a federal decision to reduce its SINP allocation by 50%, leaving only 3,625 nomination spots for 2025. This has created uncertainty for thousands of workers and businesses reliant on skilled foreign labour.
Federal Changes Spark Concerns for Workers and Employers
The federal government’s 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan includes a nationwide cap on immigration. For Saskatchewan, this meant a sharp drop in SINP nominations—cut in half from previous years. The province must now nominate 75% of its candidates from individuals already living in Canada as temporary residents, restricting access to overseas talent.
The SINP is responsible for more than 90% of Saskatchewan’s economic immigration. With the new limits, employers in industries such as healthcare, agriculture, and transportation report difficulty retaining staff. Workers on temporary permits face the risk of deportation if they cannot secure permanent residency.
Province Plans to Follow Manitoba’s Model
In response, Minister Reiter plans to negotiate with new federal Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab for a work permit extension. The proposed policy would allow SINP candidates whose permits expire in 2024 or 2025 to stay in the province for up to two more years.
“We’ve had businesspeople Canada Saskatchewan in Saskatchewan approach the ministry saying that that would be helpful here as well,” Reiter said.
Manitoba previously secured a similar deal for 6,700 temporary residents, approved under a temporary public policy by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Reiter expressed cautious optimism:
“They are apparently extending those in Manitoba, so we’re optimistic that they may do that here as well.”
Saskatchewan lacks authority to issue work permits independently. Federal approval would be required through a temporary policy framework administered by IRCC.
Impacts on Workers, Employers, and the Economy
If approved, the extension would apply to prospective SINP nominees with valid work permits as of May 7th, 2024, that expire in 2024 or 2025. These individuals must be employed in Saskatchewan and meet federal eligibility standards. Those who already ha a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) are not eligible, as they can apply for a bridging work permit.
The extension looks to support sectors such as food services, healthcare, and trucking, where nomination caps have restricted employer options. Reports cite that many employers are currently limited to nominating only 25% of their foreign workforce in capped sectors.
Saskatchewan’s proposal mirrors Manitoba’s approach but requires federal sign-off. IRCC would manage the application process, verify eligibility, and issue permits. Processing times may vary, and incomplete documentation could lead to refusals.
Saskatchewan’s Immigration Future
The request for a two-year extension reflects broader national and global trends toward selective immigration. With 12.5% of its population made up of immigrants, Saskatchewan relies heavily on the SINP to fill labor gaps.
The proposed extension is not a permanent fix but may serve as a stopgap while the province advocates for higher federal quotas or long-term program adjustments. As Reiter pursues negotiations, affected workers and employers await a federal decision.
