Saskatchewan updates in-demand occupations

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The province of Saskatchewan has updated its list of in-demand occupations for which skilled foreign workers are eligible to apply under the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program.

What does the change mean? Employers should refer to the updated list of 33 occupations that are projected to be in demand for the next five years and the professional licensure requirements for each job title. Seven of the listed occupations do not require proof of professional status or licensure.

• Implementation time frame: Immediate and ongoing. The list was updated July 3.
• Visas/permits affected: SINP, International Skilled Worker subcategories.
• Who is affected: Employers in Saskatchewan nominating foreign workers under the program.
• Business impact: The list provides additional recruitment opportunities for Saskatchewan employers.

Background: The in-demand occupations list applies to the two subcategories of SINP’s International Skilled Worker program—Express Entry and Occupations In-Demand. The Express Entry stream is linked to the federal Express Entry program and successful candidates receive an additional 600 points in the federal Comprehensive Ranking System scheme. Candidates must be in an NOC O, A or B occupation considered to be in-demand in the province, a minimum level of work experience, and score at least 60 out of 100 points in the SINP ranking system. The Occupations In-Demand stream processes candidates outside the Express Entry system and also requires a minimum score of 60 out of 100 in the SINP points system, and applicants must be in an NOC O, A or B occupation considered in-demand in Saskatchewan and have at least one year of paid work experience in the past 10 years in a job that is both in their education field and that is on the in-demand occupation list.

BAL Analysis: Employers in Saskatchewan recruiting foreign skilled workers should consult the updated occupations list and contact their BAL professional for questions regarding eligibility criteria.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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