In a bold and hopeful move, Saskatchewan is looking to secure a two-year Canada work permit extension for skilled foreign workers. This initiative comes as a lifeline for thousands of temporary residents whose futures in the province are now uncertain due to major changes to the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP).

Federal cuts have reduced SINP nominations by 50%, limiting opportunities for permanent residency and straining businesses that rely on international talent. Inspired by Manitoba’s recent success, Saskatchewan’s proposal offers renewed hope for stability and continuity for both workers and the local economy.

Why the SINP Cuts Are a Big Deal

Earlier this year, Canada adjusted its immigration targets, citing strain on housing and public services. For Saskatchewan, this translated into a sharp drop in SINP nominations from over 7,000 down to just 3,625 for 2025.

What Does This Mean in Real Terms?

• Over 90% of Saskatchewan’s economic immigrants arrive through the SINP.
• Many temporary workers face expired permits and few options.
• Employers, especially in trucking, agriculture, and food services, are struggling to fill critical roles.

With tighter quotas and closed streams like Entrepreneur and Farm Owner/Operator, the province’s growth strategy has been severely impacted.

Saskatchewan’s Plan: Follow Manitoba’s Lead

To address this growing crisis, Immigration Minister Jim Reiter plans to negotiate a two-year work permit extension with the federal government, mirroring Manitoba’s recent agreement.

Manitoba secured extensions for 6,700 workers with permits expiring in 2024 and 2025. These workers, already in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream, were allowed to continue contributing while awaiting permanent residency.

Reiter wants the same outcome for Saskatchewan. If successful, eligible workers could avoid forced departure and remain employed, easing stress on both families and businesses.

“We’ve had businesspeople in Saskatchewan approach the ministry saying that would be helpful here as well,” Reiter explained.

Who Would Benefit from the Work Permit Extension?

The proposed extension would primarily help:

• Temporary workers with expiring permits in 2024 or 2025, especially those in the SINP’s Expression of Interest pool.
• Employers are in high-demand sectors like healthcare, trades, and agriculture.
• Local communities that depend on these workers for both economic and cultural growth.

However, it wouldn’t apply to workers who already received a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA), as they’re eligible for bridging open work permits once their SINP application is submitted.

How the Extension Would Work

If approved, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) would oversee the process:

• Step 1: Eligibility: Workers must be employed in Saskatchewan with a valid work permit on or before May 7, 2024.
• Step 2: Application: Workers apply through IRCC and may need a support letter from the province.
• Step 3: Approval: Successful applicants receive a two-year open work permit, allowing them to stay and work in Saskatchewan.

Important: This policy is still under discussion. Federal approval is not guaranteed.

What’s at Stake for Saskatchewan?

This isn’t just about paperwork, it’s about real lives and the future of Saskatchewan’s economy.

• Without this extension, businesses risk losing key staff.
• Temporary workers may be forced to leave, creating avoidable labour shortages.
• Sectors like trucking and hospitality are already struggling under SINP nomination caps.

Steps Workers and Employers Can Take Now

Even as we await federal approval, there are proactive steps you can take:

For Temporary Workers

• Confirm your permit status and employment record as of May 7, 2024.
• Contact SINP for eligibility details: [email protected] or 1-833-613-0485.
• Explore alternate streams such as the Saskatchewan Work Experience category.

Need help? Book a consultation with our RCIC today to discuss your options.

For Employers

• Focus on hiring workers already in Canada to comply with federal restrictions.
• Invest in upskilling local talent where possible.
• Stay informed on SINP updates and nomination limits on the official SINP site.

The Bigger Picture: Toward a Sustainable Immigration Future

This proposal is more than a short-term fix. It’s part of a broader push to reconcile federal immigration goals with Saskatchewan’s economic reality.

With 12.5% of the province’s population now immigrants, a balanced and flexible immigration strategy is essential. Manitoba’s deal set a useful precedent, now it’s Saskatchewan’s turn.

Temporary Setbacks Shouldn’t Derail Long-Term Growth.

If approved, the Canada work permit extension would give thousands of workers the time they need to build a stable future while ensuring employers can keep moving forward.

Saskatchewan’s request for a Canada work permit extension could be a game-changer for thousands of skilled workers and businesses. By following a model that already works in Manitoba, the province is pushing for a practical solution during a time of uncertainty.

While approval from the federal government is still pending, it’s a step in the right direction. In the meantime, workers and employers alike should prepare by staying informed and exploring all available options.

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