2025 Saskatchewan PR Pathways Pause: Key Updates
Saskatchewan has announced a temporary pause on all new Job Approval Forms (JAFs) for its job-offer based permanent residence (PR) pathways, effective February 18, 2025. This suspension impacts programs like the International Skilled Worker and Tech Talent Pathway and stems from a 50% reduction in provincial nomination allocations by the federal government. Here’s what employers and foreign nationals need to know about the Saskatchewan job-offer based PR pathways pause and alternative immigration options.
2025 Saskatchewan PR Pathways Pause: Key Details
- Effective Date: February 18, 2025.
- Impact: No new JAF submissions until further notice (anticipated “several weeks”).
- Reason: Federal cuts to SINP’s 2025 nomination quota under the Immigration Levels Plan 2025-2027.
- Exceptions: JAFs submitted before February 18 will continue processing.
Impacted Programs: SINP Job-Offer Streams Suspended
The pause impacts all job offer-dependent pathways, including:
International Skilled Worker Category
- Health/Tech/Agriculture Talent Pathways.
- Employment Offer Stream.
Saskatchewan Work Experience Category
- Skilled Workers with Existing Permits.
- Health/Tech/Agriculture Talent Pathways.
Note: Excluded occupations/businesses are listed on the SINP website.
Why Saskatchewan Paused PR Nominations
- Federal Reductions: SINP’s 2025 nomination quota slashed by 50%, aligning with nationwide PNP cuts.
- Program Overhaul: The pause allows SINP to implement “necessary changes” to streamline processes.
- Backlog Management: Prioritizes existing JAFs while adapting to reduced allocations.
Alternatives to Saskatchewan’s Job-Offer Pathways
1. International Skilled Worker: Occupation In-Demand
- Requirements: 1+ year experience in a high-skilled, in-demand occupation.
- Process: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for potential nomination.
2. Express Entry
- Programs: Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class, or Skilled Trades.
- CRS Score: Aim for 500+ points or qualify for category-based draws (e.g., French proficiency).
3. Rural Community Immigration Pilot (Moose Jaw)
- Eligibility: Job offer from a designated employer in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan.
What Employers and Applicants Should Do Now
- Monitor SINP Updates: Check the SINP portal for program resumption dates.
- Explore Alternatives: Pursue Occupation In-Demand or Express Entry pathways.
- Prepare Documents: Ensure language tests, credential assessments, and job references are ready.
Conclusion
The Saskatchewan job-offer based PR pathways pause 2025 reflects broader federal immigration adjustments, but alternatives like Express Entry and Occupation In-Demand remain viable. Stay proactive by preparing applications for when SINP reopens or pivoting to federal programs.