More Improvements to Saskatchewan’s Immigrant Nominee Program

Released on March 23, 2015

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) will be introducing improvements to its entrepreneur category following consultations with a wide-range of stakeholders that will improve processing times, attract investment and foster the creation of more jobs in Saskatchewan.

“Over the last several months, we have incorporated feedback from stakeholders, researched best practices and worked with the federal government to make some positive changes to the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program,” Immigration, Jobs, Skills and Training Minister Jeremy Harrison said.  “As a result of these changes, Saskatchewan will continue to have one of the best nominee programs in Canada.”

To increase the program responsiveness and ensure that the program continues to have successful outcomes, the SINP Entrepreneur and Farm category will consolidate five streams into two main streams - the entrepreneur stream and the farm owner/operator stream, with new eligibility requirements.

The updated process includes a new online application system that uses an expression of interest model, where candidates complete an online profile, enter basic application information and earn points based on a new objective points grid.  Applications will be ranked and prioritized by points, with the highest points earners being prioritized for processing.

Applicants with proven entrepreneurial experience that can demonstrate that they plan to make an active investment in the province will be priority processed, based on their ability to earn points on the updated points grid.  The updated points grid also encourages all applicants to visit Saskatchewan and begin establishing connections with stakeholders before they apply, ensuring that investments will benefit both the applicant and Saskatchewan communities.

The program has also removed the requirement to submit a $75,000 good faith deposit, encouraging approved applicants to use these funds in the establishment of their business or to assist with their settlement.  Instead, approved applicants will be issued a temporary work permit (TWP) support letter to be submitted to the federal government as part of an application for a TWP that will allow them to land in Saskatchewan and begin business operations.  Applicants that meet the terms of their signed performance agreement will then be nominated for permanent residence.

For more information on the SINP, call 306-798-2209, e-mail saskentrepreneur@gov.sk.ca or visit https://immigration.saskatchewan.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Deb Young
Economy
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4765
Email: deb.young@gov.sk.ca