Saskatchewan Has Issued More Than Half of Its 2026 Provincial Nominations
Saskatchewan Crosses Mid-Year Mark in 2026 PNP Nominations, More Chances Still Available
Saskatchewan has officially passed the halfway point of its 2026 provincial immigration allocation, confirming that thousands of nomination spaces have already been awarded through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). The latest provincial update indicates that while demand for skilled immigration remains high, a significant number of nomination opportunities are still expected to be available during the second half of the year.
Saskatchewan Has Issued More Than Half of Its 2026 Provincial Nominations
According to Saskatchewan’s latest quarterly update, the province has granted 2,628 provincial nominations as of June 30, 2026. This represents approximately 55% of Saskatchewan’s total nomination allocation for the year. For 2026, the federal government allocated 4,761 nomination spaces to Saskatchewan through the SINP, matching the province’s final allocation from 2025.
Provincial Nomination Distribution by Sector
| Sector Category | Total Allocation | Nominations Issued | Allocation Used |
|---|---|---|---|
| Priority Sectors | 2,380 | 1,466 | 62% |
| Capped Sectors | 1,190 | 718 | 60% |
| Other Sectors | 1,191 | 444 | 37% |
| Total | 4,761 | 2,628 | 55% |
The figures suggest that priority occupations continue to receive the highest level of nominations, while other industries still have considerable capacity available during the remainder of the year.
Priority Industries Continue to Receive the Largest Share
To support Saskatchewan’s long-term economic development, the province dedicated half of its annual nomination allocation to occupations considered critical for growth.
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Skilled trades
- Mining
- Manufacturing
- Energy
- Technology
The province has also reserved 750 nomination spaces specifically for graduates of Saskatchewan post-secondary institutions who are employed in priority occupations, reinforcing efforts to retain international graduates with in-demand skills. Officials have also indicated that the allocation for priority occupations could increase if employer demand continues to exceed expectations later in the year.
Capped Industries Continue Under Controlled Intake Model
The capped sectors for 2026 include:
- Accommodation services
- Food services
- Retail trade and other services
- Trucking
Together, these industries account for 25% of Saskatchewan’s total provincial nomination allocation. Unlike other employment categories, employers in these sectors can only submit applications during designated intake periods established by the province.
More SINP Intake Rounds Scheduled for July
Saskatchewan has announced its next intake windows for employers hiring workers in capped sectors. This round introduces a revised intake structure by separating accommodation services and food services into two individual application categories.
| Sector | Intake Opening | Available Spaces |
|---|---|---|
| Trucking | July 6, 8:30 a.m. | 25 |
| Retail Trade | July 6, 8:30 a.m. | 50 |
| Accommodation Services | July 6, 12:30 p.m. | 50 |
| Food Services | July 7, 12:30 p.m. | 50 |
Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until the available spaces are filled. To help employers prepare, Saskatchewan will also conduct an information webinar on July 2, explaining the application process and requirements for the upcoming intake.
Additional Intake Dates Planned Later This Year
The province has already confirmed two more intake rounds before the end of 2026. The remaining application windows are scheduled for:
- September 14
- November 2
These future intakes will provide additional opportunities for employers operating in capped sectors to nominate eligible foreign workers.
Different Rules Apply Across Employment Categories
Application procedures vary depending on the sector in which the employer operates. For businesses in capped industries, applications can only be submitted during officially announced intake periods. Additionally, employers may only apply on behalf of foreign workers who have six months or less remaining on their current work permit.
In contrast, employers recruiting workers in priority sectors or other eligible industries are not restricted to scheduled intake windows. Applications for these categories may be submitted throughout the year, allowing greater flexibility in responding to labour shortages.
Saskatchewan Continues to Focus Immigration on Labour Market Needs
The latest SINP figures demonstrate Saskatchewan’s continued emphasis on directing immigration toward occupations experiencing the greatest workforce shortages. While more than half of this year’s nomination allocation has already been used, over two thousand provincial nomination spaces remain available, creating further opportunities for skilled workers, international graduates, and employers during the second half of 2026.
As future intake rounds approach and labour market demand evolves, Saskatchewan is expected to continue adjusting its nomination strategy to ensure immigration supports the province’s economic priorities while addressing ongoing workforce needs.
3. Full-Time Equivalency Standard
Full-time work is defined as at least 30 hours per week. Candidates must accumulate the equivalent of 12 months at this standard.
- 30 hours per week for 12 months qualify.
- Part-time work is acceptable if it equals the same total number of hours (for example, 15 hours per week over 24 months).
