Saskatchewan Needs Immigrants to Address Labour Shortages in 2024. Saskatchewan is actively recruiting immigrants in 2024 to help address widespread labour shortages across the province. With over 16,000 current job vacancies and an expected 112,000 openings over the next five years, Saskatchewan has a strong demand for workers that cannot be met through the existing labour force alone.

The provincial government has successfully negotiated with the federal government to increase the number of provincial nominee spots under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) by 42% from 2022 to 2025. This will allow Saskatchewan to welcome over 18,000 immigrants in 2024 when including accompanying family members.

Why Saskatchewan Needs More Immigrants

Saskatchewan is facing significant labour market pressures driven by an aging population, youth outmigration and business growth. Key factors contributing to the labour shortages include:

Ageing workforce: Over the next 10 years, roughly 153,000 workers are expected to exit the Saskatchewan labour force through retirement. There are not enough younger workers to replace them.
Youth outmigration: Many young Saskatchewan residents move to other provinces for education and early career opportunities, depleting the future workforce.
Economic growth: Saskatchewan has a strong economy across sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, construction and services. Business expansion is outpacing labour force growth, making it hard to fill positions.
Low unemployment: Saskatchewan’s unemployment rate was just 3.8% at the end of 2022, among the lowest in Canada. This signals an economy operating at close to full employment with minimal spare labour capacity.

SINP Changes to Address Labour Shortages

To help companies fill vacant positions with qualified candidates, the Saskatchewan government has expanded eligibility for permanent residence under the SINP Existing Work Permit stream.

As of November 2023, work permit holders in 279 additional intermediate-skilled and lower-skilled occupations are now eligible to apply for provincial nomination. These include truck drivers, farm workers, nurse aides, housekeepers and food counter attendants.To qualify, candidates must:

Have at least 6 months of Saskatchewan work experience in a designated intermediate-skilled or lower-skilled occupation.
Have a permanent, full-time job offer from a Saskatchewan employer.
Meet minimum language requirements.
Intend to live and work in Saskatchewan.

By expanding eligibility to a wider range of essential occupations, the SINP can help more employers recruit and retain the workers they need through the attraction of permanent residence.

Top Opportunities for Immigrants in Saskatchewan’s Labour Market

Saskatchewan offers excellent employment prospects for immigrants in 2024. Over 16,000 job vacancies are currently posted across various fields, with the highest demand in these key sectors:

1. Truck Drivers

Over 1,500 job postings for truck drivers and material handlers.
Strong demand due to goods transportation across this expansive province.
Median salary of $45,000-$65,000 per year.

2. Food Counter Attendants and Kitchen Helpers

1,200+ openings for food service roles like cooks, servers and dishwashers.
Major staffing needs in restaurants, hotels, healthcare facilities and remote worksites.
Median salary of $30,000 per year.

3. Nurse Aides, Orderlies and Patient Service Associates

1,100+ vacancies, especially in long-term care homes and rural/remote regions.
Will assist with healthcare labour shortages across the province.
Median salary of $40,000 per year.

4. Retail Salespersons and Sales Clerks

Over 1,000 openings in retail businesses across Saskatchewan.
Crucial for stores, groceries, pharmacies and gas stations in communities of all sizes.
Median salary of $30,000 per year.

5. Transport Truck Drivers

900+ vacancies specifically for long-haul truck drivers.
Essential to transport goods between cities and to/from rural regions.
Median salary of $50,000-$75,000 per year.

Saskatchewan employers in these key sectors are eager to hire qualified immigrants to fill persistent staff shortages in 2024.

Saskatchewan’s Advantages as a Top Immigration Destination

In addition to a strong job market with labour shortages across multiple sectors, Saskatchewan offers many other advantages that make it an attractive destination for immigrants in 2024:

1. Fast Provincial Nomination and Permanent Residence

Saskatchewan offers expedited permanent residence through the SINP compared to other provinces. Many applicants become permanent residents within 1-2 years after arrival.

2. Low Cost of Living

Housing prices are roughly half the national average, allowing new immigrants to afford good homes. Overall cost of living is 10-15% below other major cities.

3. Tight-Knit Communities

Saskatchewan residents have a strong sense of community belonging and are welcoming towards newcomers.

4. Family-Friendly Environment

Short commutes, affordable childcare and family-oriented communities create an attractive place to raise children.

5. Economic and Population Growth

As one of Canada’s fastest growing provinces economically, Saskatchewan offers plentiful opportunities to build a career and life.For immigrants looking to secure permanent Canadian residence and settle with family in an affordable location with job options, Saskatchewan checks many boxes. The expanded SINP eligibility creates a faster and easier pathway to permanent status as well.

Top Cities and Towns to Move to in Saskatchewan

Deciding where to settle in Saskatchewan depends on your lifestyle preferences, career ambitions and family needs. Here are some of the top destinations for immigrants:

1. Saskatoon

As Saskatchewan’s largest city, Saskatoon offers big-city amenities combined with a more relaxed pace. With major employers in sectors like mining and tech, it provides diverse career opportunities. Education is also a major economic driver through the University of Saskatchewan and other institutes. Saskatoon provides all conveniences for immigrants, while remaining very affordable compared to other major Canadian cities.

2. Regina

The provincial capital of Regina is another primary destination, with over 250,000 residents in the metro area. As home to many government services, Crown corporations and private companies, Regina acts as the administrative hub for the province. Major local employers include agriculture, manufacturing, logistics and professional services. Regina offers a high standard and low cost of living.

3. Prince Albert

For those seeking more of a mid-sized community, Prince Albert serves as a regional hub in central Saskatchewan. Forestry is a top local industry. The city offers ample amenities and shorter commutes, combined with a vibrant arts scene and many nearby recreational lakes. Prince Albert provides a balanced lifestyle for career and family.

4. Moose Jaw

Moose Jaw is attractive to those who want smaller city conveniences without compromising amenities. Local economy drivers include manufacturing, transportation and agriculture. Known for its mineral spas and proximity to outdoor attractions, Moose Jaw appeals for quality of life. Newcomers can become part of the friendly, 50,000-strong community.

5. Yorkton

As Saskatchewan’s eastern regional hub, Yorkton provides healthcare, retail, education and social services for those preferring a town lifestyle. Manufacturing and agriculture are also important local industries. Yorkton offers immigrants affordable housing, sports and recreation opportunities, and a great place to raise kids. Whether you prefer an urban or rural setting, Saskatchewan likely has the right community for you. The province is specifically looking to attract and retain immigrants in all areas, both large resource hubs and smaller towns.

Steps to Immigrate to Saskatchewan in 2024

If you want to take advantage of Saskatchewan’s strong job market and immigrant-friendly communities in 2024, here are key steps:

1. Check Your Eligibility for the SINP

Review the updated SINP streams and occupation in-demand list to see if you’re eligible. Consider the Express Entry sub-category for skilled workers or the Existing Work Permit category if you already have a job.

2. Find a Job Offer from a Saskatchewan Employer

Employers are urgently hiring foreign workers to fill vacancies. Use job boards and employer outreach through LinkedIn to find openings. Getting a permanent job offer will strengthen your SINP and permanent residence application.

3. Apply to the SINP

Submit your complete SINP application online. Work with an immigration consultant if you need help addressing program criteria or requirements. Provide strong supporting documents to avoid processing delays.

4. Await Nomination and Apply for Permanent Residence

If nominated through the SINP, apply for permanent residence through Express Entry. Include family members on your application. Permanent residents can live, work and study anywhere in Canada.

5. Move to Saskatchewan and Begin Your New Life!

Upon approval as a permanent resident, make arrangements to settle in your chosen Saskatchewan destination. Immerse yourself in the community, build your career and enjoy the vibrant lifestyle.

Saskatchewan offers an excellent opportunity for skilled immigrant workers who want to secure permanent Canadian residence and residency rights while contributing to the local labour market. Following these steps positions you to capitalize on the province’s strong immigration programs and job prospects. Contact an advisor to evaluate your options today.

Finding a Job Before Arriving in Saskatchewan

Securing a permanent job offer with a Saskatchewan employer before arriving will strengthen your chances of permanent residence through the SINP. It also makes your initial settlement process easier.

Top Job Boards to Find Saskatchewan Opportunities

SaskJobs: Saskatchewan’s official job portal connecting workers and employers in the province. Browse opportunities across all sectors.
Indeed: Leading national job site with thousands of Saskatchewan-based openings across cities and towns. Easy to search by region.
LinkedIn Jobs: Professional social network has many Saskatchewan job postings. Build connections with employers and recruiters.
Workopolis: Popular Canadian site highlights available jobs with Saskatchewan companies looking to hire.
Eluta: Compiles listings from various job boards and company career pages specific to Saskatchewan.
Job Bank: Government-run site for searching Saskatchewan openings recently posted. Focuses on skilled positions.

Checking these sites regularly maximizes your chances of finding a position aligned with your skills and interests while still overseas.

Tips for Getting Hired from Abroad

Here are some top tips to help secure a Saskatchewan job offer before arriving as an immigrant:

Highlight authorization to work in Canada prominently in your application so employers understand you have legal status.
Adapt your resume to align with Saskatchewan workplace culture and preferred skills/experiences.
Leverage your networks for insider referrals to open job opportunities and employee contacts.
Promote language abilities and technical capabilities relevant to in-demand Saskatchewan occupations.
Communicate effectively throughout the interview process to present yourself as an ideal remote candidate.
Be prepared to travel for final interviews or starting the position. Some employers assist with relocation costs.

With determination and the right approach, skilled immigrant candidates can achieve pre-arrival Saskatchewan employment and hit the ground running upon arrival.

Choosing Where to Live in Saskatchewan

An important decision for immigrants settling in Saskatchewan with family is choosing your initial community. Consider the following aspects when deciding on the best city or town for you:

Employment Opportunities

What industries and companies provide jobs aligned with your qualifications where you can continue building your career?

Affordability

Consider home purchase prices or rental rates relative to typical salaries to identify affordable areas with reasonable cost of living.

Amenities and Services

Ensure your preferred destination offers necessities for daily family life like schools, transit, healthcare, recreation and shopping.

Support for Newcomers

Seek out communities with strong integration programs, multicultural populations and services to assist immigrants.

Future Prospects

Research economic outlooks and development plans to choose places with a promising future rather than declining industries.Consulting online community profiles, affordability calculators and immigrant resources makes it easier to find the right Saskatchewan city, town or rural municipality to call home.

Bringing Family to Saskatchewan from India

Saskatchewan offers a high quality, affordable lifestyle in vibrant communities that welcome newcomers. This makes it appealing for Indian immigrants wanting to bring their families and settle permanently through express entry and provincial nominee programs.Here is the process for sponsoring family members once you obtain permanent residence in Saskatchewan:

Who is Eligible Under Family Reunification?

As a permanent resident or citizen, you can sponsor:

Spouse or common-law partner
Dependent children
Parents and grandparents

To bring siblings, aunts/uncles or cousins, they must apply through their own immigration programs.

How to Sponsor Family to Immigrate

As the sponsor, you must:

Be 18+ years old
Live in Canada
Provide financial support for family members’ basic needs
Provide documents proving relationship

Key steps:

Determine eligibility of dependents
Gather required documents for application
Complete and submit sponsorship application
Undergo document and security checks
Wait for application approval

It takes approximately 12 months for family members to obtain permanent residence after submitting sponsorship applications. They can then join you in Saskatchewan.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

Here is a step-by-step guide to apply to the SINP before deadline:

Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility

Determine your eligibility through the SINP eligibility tool and points grid.

.You will need:

Age under 45 years
Minimum IELTS score of 6.0
1 Year work experience in a high demand occupation
Sufficient settlement funds

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather all required documents to support your application:

Passports
Education credentials
Work experience letters
Language test results
Settlement funds proof
Identity documents

Refer to the document checklist for detailed requirements.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Applications for both categories must be submitted online through the SINP portal .

The non-refundable application fee is $350.

Key Tip: Start your application early to allow sufficient time for document submission.

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Saskatchewan Needs Immigrants to Address Labour Shortages in 2024