Saskatchewan seeks to Extend Work Permits for Skilled Talent

Saskatchewan is taking a stand. After the federal government cut the province’s immigration nominations by 50%, the Saskatchewan government is pushing back, with a plan to extend work permits by two years for skilled foreign workers.

If approved, this could be a major lifeline for thousands of temporary workers and the employers who rely on them.

What’s Going On with Immigration in Saskatchewan?

Ottawa slashed Saskatchewan's immigration quota drastically from 7250 to 3625 for 2025, marking its rock-bottom level since 2009. That's a massive blow, especially since over 90 percent of newcomers arrive in the province via the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program. Perhaps more distressing still is that the federal government now mandates that 75% of nominees reside inside Canada, severely limiting British Columbia's ability to lure fresh global talent.

Saskatchewan's Response: Follow Manitoba’s Lead

To deal with this crisis, Saskatchewan’s Immigration Minister Jim Reiter is hoping to negotiate a deal with new federal Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab—one that would mirror what Manitoba recently did.

Manitoba struck a deal with Ottawa to give 6,700 workers with expiring work permits an extra two years to stay and work while they apply for permanent residency. Saskatchewan is now asking for the same deal.

And it’s needed badly.

Check your eligibility for the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program with the Saskatchewan PNP Points Calculator.

Why This Matters to You

This proposal isn’t just about politics. It directly affects:

1. Skilled foreign workers who are worried that their permits will expire before they get permanent residency.
2. Employers who depend on these workers to keep their businesses running, especially in critical sectors like health care, agriculture, trucking, and food services.
3. Saskatchewan communities rely on immigration to grow their local economies and fill essential jobs.

How the Manitoba Deal Works—and what Saskatchewan wants

Manitoba’s deal with Ottawa was simple but powerful:

1. It gave work permit extensions to foreign workers already in the province.
2. It applies to people whose permits expired in 2024 or will expire in 2025.
3. It allowed these workers to stay longer, keep working, and finish the PR process without having to leave Canada.

Now, Saskatchewan wants the same setup—a two-year work permit extension for eligible SINP candidates.

Who Will Benefit?

If approved, this could benefit thousands of workers and businesses across Saskatchewan. Here’s who stands to gain:

1. Temporary foreign workers with permits expiring in 2024–2025
2. Employers struggling with labor shortages
3. Sectors like health care, agriculture, and trades that urgently need talent
4. Local communities that depend on newcomers for growth

What’s Changing in the SINP in 2025?

The SINP is being restructured to deal with the cuts. Here’s a quick overview of the key changes:

So, What Happens Next?

If Saskatchewan gets approval from Ottawa, here’s what workers can expect:

1. Eligibility check

You’ll need to have had a valid Saskatchewan work permit as of May 7, 2024, and still be working in the province.

2. Application submission

You’ll apply for the extension through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).

3. Wait for approval

If approved, you’ll get a 2-year open work permit to stay and continue working.

4. Apply for PR

You’ll then have more time to complete the SINP process and become a permanent resident.

Real Concerns: What Could Go Wrong?

This plan sounds great, but there are a few challenges:

1. The federal government hasn’t agreed yet, and they might say no.
2. Not all workers will qualify—those in capped or excluded sectors might still lose out.
3. Employers in lower-priority industries may continue to face staffing shortages.
4. Many workers are already stressed and uncertain about their future.

What Can You Do?

Here’s how you can prepare, whether you’re a worker or an employer:

For Workers:

1. Check if you were working in Saskatchewan on May 7, 2024, with a valid permit.
2. Watch for updates from the SINP and IRCC.
3. Explore other PR streams if eligible.
4. Talk to a licensed immigration consultant for guidance.

For Employers:

1. Focus your hiring on workers already inside Canada.
2. Keep up with sector-specific nomination limits.
3. Train or upskill local workers where possible.
4. Stay connected with immigration advisors for policy updates.

Big Picture: Why This Matters

Saskatchewan is one of the provinces that depends most heavily on immigration to grow its economy. According to the 2021 census, 12.5% of the population is immigrants, and that number is still growing.

Cutting immigration now, just as businesses are recovering from global labor shortages, could have long-term economic consequences.

By fighting for work permit extensions, Saskatchewan is trying to keep skilled workers in the province, avoid disruptions for employers, and give immigrants a fair shot at permanent residency.

Stay updated with the latest Saskatchewan PNP Draws! Check eligibility, cut-off scores, and invitations issued to apply for Canadian permanent residency.

Manitoba vs. Saskatchewan: A Quick Comparison

Clearing Up the Confusion: Common Myths

Myth 1: Everyone gets the extension
Truth: Only specific SINP candidates qualify, not all temporary workers.

Myth 2: Saskatchewan can issue permits on its own
Truth: Only IRCC can issue or extend work permits.

Myth 3: A work permit extension means guaranteed PR
Truth: It gives you more time to apply, not a guarantee of approval.

Explore high-demand jobs in Saskatchewan! Apply for PR without a job offer through the Occupation In-Demand stream.

How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help You

At Visa Solutions 4u, we know immigration changes can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone.

We’re here to help with:

1. Free eligibility checks for SINP or PR
2. Step-by-step support for your work permit extension
3. Personalized advice for employers and workers
4. Application help for SINP, PR, or other visa programs
5. Fast updates when immigration rules change

Your future in Canada matters. Let us help you make it a reality.

Get in touch today to secure your stay and grow your future in Saskatchewan!