Canada. Work Permit Extension Could Be a Lifeline for Saskatchewan’s Foreign Workers

Introduction

Canada Work Permit Extension is no longer a bureaucratic term — it’s a lifeline. Thousands of skilled workers in Saskatchewan are facing the expiration of their permits, just as federal immigration cuts slash their chances of staying. Now, the province is fighting back with a bold proposal: a two-year work permit extension to protect its workforce and economy.

Key Takeaways

• Saskatchewan proposes a 2-year extension for foreign workers

• Federal SINP nominations cut in half — only 3,600 for 2025

• Eligible workers must have valid permits expiring in 2024–2025

• Key industries affected: health, farming, trucking, retail, trades

• SINP introduces tighter controls and closed streams as of March 2025

Why Is Saskatchewan Making This Request?

The province took a major hit after the federal government slashed SINP nominations by 50%. From healthcare clinics to construction sites, the impact is already visible.

Saskatchewan’s immigration minister is calling for the same solution that Manitoba secured — letting 6,700 workers stay until the end of 2025. The logic is simple: these people are already here, already working, already vital.

Who Would Qualify for the Extension?

If approved by IRCC, the Canada Work Permit Extension would apply to:

• Workers with permits expiring in 2024 or 2025

• Applicants in the SINP Expression of Interest pool

• Individuals employed in Saskatchewan as of May 7, 2024

• Foreign nationals meeting federal temporary status criteria

🔁 Note: Those with a SINP LAA will use a bridging open work permit instead.

What Does It Mean for Employers?

For businesses across Saskatchewan, this is a make-or-break decision.

• No training new hires

• No workforce gaps

• No service interruptions

Industries like healthcare, agriculture, trucking, and construction are especially vocal — they can’t afford to lose people midstream.

Changes in SINP: What’s New in March 2025?

These restrictions mean fewer ways to stay — and make the work permit extension even more critical.

What Would the Process Look Like?

If greenlit:

1. Eligibility Check — were you working in SK on May 7, 2024?

2. Submit Application — likely with provincial support letter

3. IRCC Review — variable time, based on volume

4. Approval — 2-year open work permit issued

What You Should Do Now

For Workers:

• Review your permit

• Confirm employment date in SK

• Start gathering documents

• Reach out to licensed immigration professionals

For Employers:

• Stay informed about SINP news

• Retain skilled temporary staff

• Prepare letters of support

Opinion

In my view, this proposal is less about immigration and more about economic survival. These aren’t strangers asking to enter — they’re workers already contributing. To let them leave because of red tape is not just cruel — it’s stupid policy.

The extension won’t fix everything, but it buys time — time for PR pathways, for employers to plan, and for Ottawa to fix its numbers.

Conclusion

The Canada Work Permit Extension could stabilize not just Saskatchewan’s economy — but the lives of thousands. Now it’s up to the federal government to decide: will they choose policy… or people?

#Canada

Source – https://canadaimmigration.news/