SINP 2026: Guide to Saskatchewan’s New Immigration Changes
Saskatchewan has introduced major updates to the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) for 2026, reshaping how workers, employers, and international graduates access provincial nominations. With new sector caps, priority allocations, and updated eligibility rules, this year brings one of the most structured and competitive SINP cycles to date.
This guide breaks down everything applicants and employers need to know for 2026.
SINP Nomination Allocation for 2026
Saskatchewan’s nomination allocation for 2026 is 4,761, matching the final allocation from the previous year.
The province has introduced a structured distribution model to ensure nominations support long‑term labour needs.
A key change for 2026 is that Saskatchewan is no longer required to nominate a specific percentage of temporary residents, giving the province more flexibility in selecting candidates.
Priority Sectors for 2026
At least half of all nominations are reserved for priority sectors that support Saskatchewan’s long‑term economic growth. These include:
• Healthcare
• Agriculture
• Skilled Trades
• Mining
• Manufacturing
• Energy
• Technology
Special allocation for graduates:
Within the priority sector allocation, 750 spots are reserved for Saskatchewan post‑secondary graduates working in priority occupations.
Why priority sector applicants benefit:
• Can apply year‑round
• Can apply from outside Canada
• Not restricted by the six‑month work permit expiry rule
• More predictable nomination access
Capped Sectors for 2026
Up to 25% of nominations are reserved for capped sectors. These sectors have strict limits to manage high demand:
• Accommodation & Food Services – 15%
• Trucking – 5%
• Retail Trade – 5%
Important rules for capped sectors:
• Applications are only accepted during specific intake windows.
• Once a sector reaches its cap, no further applications are accepted for the year.
• Job Approval Letters issued in 2025 for capped sectors do not carry over into 2026.
2026 intake windows for capped sectors:
• September 7, 2026
• November 2, 2026
Other Sectors (Up to 25%)
The remaining nominations are allocated to sectors outside the priority and capped categories.
Availability depends on:
• Demand in priority sectors
• Whether capped sectors reach their limits
• Mid‑year adjustments by the province
Major Eligibility Changes for 2026
Saskatchewan has updated several eligibility rules to improve retention and ensure nominees align with long‑term labour needs.
1. Updated Work Permit Rules
Priority sector applicants are no longer affected by the six‑month work permit expiry rule, giving them more flexibility.
2. Revised Student Eligibility
International graduates must meet updated criteria to qualify for nomination, particularly in priority occupations.
3. Employer Requirements
Employers must ensure:
• Job Approval Letters align with sector caps
• Positions meet provincial labour market needs
• Applications are submitted during the correct intake windows (for capped sectors)
Who Is Best Positioned in 2026?
Strongest candidates:
• Workers in priority sectors
• Saskatchewan graduates in priority occupations
• Skilled workers applying from overseas
• Applicants with long‑term job offers
More challenges for:
• Workers in accommodation, retail, and trucking
• Applicants relying on expired or unused 2025 Job Approval Letters
• Employers in high‑demand capped sectors
Need Help Navigating SINP 2026?
With new sector caps, intake windows, and eligibility rules, 2026 is a competitive year for SINP applicants.
Our team supports:
• Job Approval Letters
• Employer eligibility
• SINP application preparation
• Permanent residence submissions
• Strategy for priority vs. capped sectors
Contact One Canada Visa at info@onecanadavisa.com
We’ll help you choose the strongest pathway for your situation.
