Canada Work Permit Extension: Saskatchewan Pushes for 2-Year Relief for Foreign Workers

Canada Work Permit Extension is becoming a hot topic in Saskatchewan, and for good reason. Thousands of skilled foreign workers are stuck in a tough spot. Their permits are ending, but their dream of staying and building a life in Canada is far from over.

Now, Saskatchewan is taking action.

Just like Manitoba, the province wants to give these workers a two-year extension. If approved, this move could help both workers and businesses stay strong during a challenging time. Here’s what you need to know about the proposal and what it could mean for you or your workplace.

Why Is Saskatchewan Asking for This Extension?

Recently, the federal government cut Saskatchewan’s immigration nominations under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) by 50%. That means only 3,600 new permanent residents can be nominated in 2025, the lowest number in over a decade.

This decision has hit hard:

• Workers are left unsure if they can stay in the province.
• Employers are worried about losing the staff they depend on.
• Communities fear a loss of skilled people who support local growth.

To solve this, Saskatchewan’s Immigration Minister Jim Reiter wants to follow Manitoba’s example. Manitoba already secured a similar deal, allowing 6,700 workers to stay until the end of 2025.

Who Would Qualify for the Work Permit Extension?

If the federal government approves Saskatchewan’s request, the extension will help a specific group of people:

• Workers whose permits expire in 2024 or 2025
• Applicants in Saskatchewan’s Expression of Interest pool
• People already working in Saskatchewan as of May 7, 2024
• Individuals who meet the federal requirements for temporary status

But it won’t apply to everyone. For example, if you’ve already received a Letter of Advice to Apply (LAA) from SINP, you’ll go through a different process using a bridging open work permit.

Why the Canada Work Permit Extension Matters for Employers

For Saskatchewan businesses, especially in sectors like:

• Healthcare
• Agriculture
• Construction
• Retail
• Trucking

This extension would mean stability.

Employers wouldn’t have to train new staff from scratch or deal with sudden gaps in their workforce. Many business owners have already told the province that this help is urgently needed.

What Has Changed in Saskatchewan’s Immigration Plan?

Due to the reduced federal support, Saskatchewan has made some changes to the SINP that start in March 2025. These include:

These changes mean fewer pathways for temporary residents to stay. That’s why the proposed Canada Work Permit Extension is more important than ever.

How Would the Extension Process Work?

Here’s a simple breakdown of what might happen if the plan is approved:

1. Eligibility Check: You must be employed in Saskatchewan and have a valid permit as of May 7, 2024.

• Application to IRCC: Submit your application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You might need a support letter from the province.
• IRCC Review: The federal agency will review your documents. This could take time depending on the number of applications.
• Permit Approval: If approved, you’ll receive a new open work permit valid for two years.

What Should Workers and Employers Do Now?

For Workers

• Check your current permit details
• Confirm if you were working in Saskatchewan on May 7, 2024
• Contact SINP or a licensed immigration consultant for personalized help
• Gather your documents and stay ready in case the extension is approved

For Employers

• Keep an eye on SINP updates
• Focus hiring efforts on temporary residents already in Canada
• Offer job security to current workers who may benefit from the extension
• Prepare support documents if needed

Saskatchewan’s request for a Canada Work Permit Extension is a lifeline for many. If accepted, it could allow thousands to continue their journey in Canada while helping the province avoid serious worker shortages.

It’s a temporary fix, but one that gives time, time for workers to apply for permanent residency and for businesses to plan ahead. While challenges remain, Saskatchewan is clearly fighting to keep its workforce and economy strong.

Canada Work Permit Extension Offers Hope

In the face of reduced immigration slots and growing labour needs, Saskatchewan’s plan for a Canada Work Permit Extension could be the answer. It brings hope to skilled workers and stability to industries that depend on them. Now, all eyes are on the federal government to see if they will support the plan. In the meantime, workers and employers can take small steps today to prepare for what could be a big win tomorrow.

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