SINP Pauses Job Approval Forms For ‘Several Weeks’ & Hints At Broader Program Changes

This temporary pause is yet another provincial response to the federal cutbacks to Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocations.  

Key Takeaways 

• New JAFs are paused: Starting February 18, 2025, the SINP stopped accepting new JAFs to review current applications and make program updates. 

• No exceptions: All new JAF submissions are on hold for several weeks, with no exceptions granted during this pause. 

• Reduced allocations mean fewer spots: The federal government cut overall PNP allocations by 50%, and the target for Saskatchewan was reduced by 50% for 2025, too. 

• Applications may face new rules: Your application might be affected by future changes to program requirements, even if you submitted your application before the pause. 

• Longer waits expected: With limited capacity and an ongoing review process, you may experience lengthier processing times while officials work through existing cases. 

What Happened 

Effective February 18, 2025, the SINP temporarily paused the acceptance of new JAFs from Saskatchewan employers. This decision was prompted by a drastic cut in the province’s annual allocation of PNP spots, leaving far fewer opportunities for international workers. During this break, the SINP will continue to review and process the files of skilled workers who have already obtained a Job Approval Letter. 

No exceptions will be made during this pause. In other words, employers cannot submit new JAFs, and prospective immigrants waiting on a new JAF must wait until this temporary freeze is lifted.  

The pause is expected to last a few weeks, but the SINP will announce any changes as soon as they are ready to reopen JAF submissions. 

Which SINP Programs Are Affected By This Change? 

The following programs are impacted by the pause: 

International Skilled Worker  

• Employment Offer  

• Agriculture Talent Pathway 

• Tech Talent Pathway 

• Health Talent Pathway 

Saskatchewan Work Experience Category  

• Skilled Worker with Existing Work Permit (including those falling under the long-haul trucker and hospitality pathways) 

• Agriculture Talent Pathway 

• Tech Talent Pathway 

• Health Talent Pathway 

• Students. 

Background 

These sudden changes stem from the federal government’s decision to reduce overall immigration levels for 2025-2027. Provincial Nominee Programs, including the SINP, have been especially affected by a 50% reduction in allocations. Because each province is receiving fewer spaces, Saskatchewan must carefully manage the flow of new applicants to align with federal guidelines and ensure critical local workforce needs are met. 

Historically, the SINP was a go-to route for Saskatchewan employers struggling to find qualified Canadian workers. Now, with fewer spots available, the province must adapt to keep its immigration process fair and effective. This situation mirrors trends across Canada, as other provinces are also reviewing or revising their nomination streams in light of the federal cuts. 

What’s Next For The SINP 

At the moment, we aren’t sure. But we are expecting more details to be released in the coming weeks.  

We will update this section as soon as we hear more news from the SINP.  

For what it’s worth, we predict that it’s possible that Saskatchewan may follow the example other provinces have set and:  

1. Stop certain programs for 2025, based on demand for those skills in the province.  
2. Increase processing times to account for increased demand.  
3. Adjust application processes to help it better assess applicants.  

It may also adopt its own individual approach to managing the reduced allocation.  

Action Items For Prospective SINP Applicants

Monitor Official Announcements

Stay informed by following updates on the SINP’s official website and any announcements from the Saskatchewan government. This pause could end in a few weeks, but you will want to learn about any new or revised eligibility criteria as soon as they’re published. 

You can also check our blog or sign up for our newsletter to learn more about these updates.  

Review Your Current Status

If you already have a Job Approval Letter, your immigration process is likely to remain in progress. However, the SINP may change certain program rules, so keep your contact information updated to ensure you receive any communications about next steps or additional requirements. 

Speak to Your Employer

Employers in Saskatchewan also need time to adapt. If you are in the middle of the hiring process or have a pending offer, keep an open dialogue to understand how this pause and any forthcoming changes affect your situation. 

Explore Alternatives

If this pause adds uncertainty to your plans, you may want to explore other immigration programs, both provincial and federal. Research your eligibility for programs like the Canadian Experience Class via the Express Entry system, family sponsorship, or other provincial streams that may still be open or have different requirements. 

Stay Patient and Prepared

Even though the pause is temporary, be ready for possible longer processing times once JAF submissions reopen and prepare for potential program pauses or changes. By gathering necessary documents and keeping track of shifting policies, you can strengthen your application and respond quickly once the SINP resumes normal operations.