The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is an official immigration program of the Government of Saskatchewan that allows the province to attract foreign specialists, entrepreneurs, and individuals already employed in the region to apply for permanent residence in Canada. Due to relatively moderate language requirements, a broad list of eligible occupations, and a simplified application procedure, SINP is one of the most popular options among Ukrainian and other international applicants.
The program is divided into several streams, covering candidates with an Express Entry profile and those not participating in federal systems. Special attention should be given to the recent update regarding the Median Salary Requirement, which directly impacts candidate selection and employment offers.
Key Advantages of the SINP Program
1. Fast application processing
At the provincial nomination stage, the review period often takes 2–4 months, which is twice as fast compared to similar streams in British Columbia or Ontario.
2. Liberal language requirements
Some streams allow English proficiency at CLB 4–5 (IELTS 4.0–5.0), making the program accessible even to candidates who do not meet higher language benchmarks.
3. Broad list of eligible occupations
The province regularly updates its in-demand occupation list, including not only healthcare workers and engineers but also cooks, electricians, technicians, drivers, bookkeepers, and more. This significantly increases chances of nomination.
4. Application without a job offer
The Occupation In-Demand stream allows skilled workers to apply without prior employment, provided their occupation is on the current in-demand list.
5. Online application system OASIS
The OASIS platform allows applicants to create a personal profile, upload all documents online, track application status, and interact with provincial officers without mailing anything physically.
Key Limitations and Program Updates
1. Median Salary Requirement
As of 2024, the province requires employers to offer a wage that equals or exceeds the median salary for that specific occupation in Saskatchewan, based on Job Bank data. While this protects workers, it limits the number of employers who are able or willing to meet this salary threshold.
2. Changes to the occupation list
In 2024–2025, there has been a trend toward reducing the number of eligible occupations in the In-Demand list. For example, some IT and technical professions have been temporarily removed.
3. Lengthy federal stage
After receiving a provincial nomination, the final permanent residence application processed by IRCC can take up to 12–18 months, especially for candidates with accompanying family members.
4. Mandatory intent to reside in Saskatchewan
Candidates must sign a declaration of intent to reside in Saskatchewan for at least the first few years after receiving PR status. Violating this may impact future immigration or citizenship applications.
5. Proof of settlement funds
Applicants to non-EE streams must prove they have sufficient financial means for settlement (starting from $13,757 CAD for a single adult to over $30,000 CAD for a family of four), following the federal minimum thresholds.
Main Streams of the SINP Program
International Skilled Worker – Express Entry
For candidates with an active Express Entry profile. Key requirements:
- Active Express Entry profile and eligibility under FSW or CEC;
- At least 60 points under the SINP Points Grid;
- Work experience in an in-demand occupation;
- Minimum English level CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0 in each band);
- Wage compliance with median salary requirements (if job offer present);
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is mandatory.
International Skilled Worker – Occupation In-Demand
For candidates without an Express Entry profile. Suitable for skilled workers without a job offer but with relevant education and experience. Key requirements:
- Occupation must be listed as in-demand;
- Minimum 60 points under SINP Points Grid;
- At least 1 year of relevant work experience;
- English level of CLB 4–5;
- ECA is mandatory;
- Proof of settlement funds.
Saskatchewan Experience
Designed for individuals already working in Saskatchewan for at least 6 months under a valid work permit. Key requirements:
- Valid job offer from a Saskatchewan-based employer;
- Wage must meet the Median Salary Requirement;
- English level CLB 4 or higher depending on the occupation;
- No major violations of immigration status.
Required Documents for SINP Application
- Valid passports of all family members;
- Language test results (IELTS or CELPIP, not older than 2 years);
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from WES, ICAS, IQAS, etc.;
- Work reference letters, contracts, and proof of duties;
- Job offer letter (if applicable) with confirmation of median wage compliance;
- Canadian-format résumé (CV);
- Bank statements proving financial capacity;
- Marriage/birth certificates;
- Police certificates from countries where applicant resided >6 months.
Step-by-Step SINP Application Process
1. Eligibility assessment
Determine which stream is most suitable for your case. Calculate your score using the SINP Points Grid. The minimum qualifying score is 60 out of 100.
2. Document preparation
Obtain your language test, ECA report, employment records, and financial proof.
3. Create OASIS account and submit your application
Register on Saskatchewan’s government portal, select the appropriate stream, fill out the form, upload all required documents, and pay the application fee ($350 CAD).
4. Wait for nomination decision
Processing times average 10–16 weeks. Officers may request an interview or additional information.
5. Submit your PR application to IRCC
After receiving your nomination, submit your application to IRCC (through Express Entry or paper-based, depending on the stream). Complete your medical exam and background check.
6. Receive COPR and arrive in Canada
Once approved, you will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence. Enter Canada and begin integration in Saskatchewan.
Median Salary Requirement
Since 2024, all job offers submitted under SINP must meet or exceed the provincial median salary for that specific occupation, as listed in the Canadian Job Bank. This policy aims to ensure fair compensation and protect local labor market integrity.
Official source:
https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/moving-to-saskatchewan/hire-a-foreign-worker/recruit-and-hire-workers-with-sinp/hiring-workers-for-permanent-jobs
Conclusion
The SINP program is an effective immigration pathway for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Canada. However, success depends on careful preparation, matching current program requirements (especially salary thresholds), and maintaining compliance with language, education, and financial standards. Thorough documentation, close attention to eligibility criteria, and up-to-date knowledge of occupation lists significantly increase your chances of a positive outcome.
