Saskatchewan International Skilled Worker (ISW) Expression of Interest (EOI) System

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) offers a pathway for skilled workers to immigrate to Saskatchewan through its International Skilled Worker (ISW) categories. The EOI system is a key component of this program, allowing candidates to express their interest in applying for provincial nomination. Below is a comprehensive overview of how the EOI system works, eligibility criteria, the selection process, and recent updates.

What is the EOI System?

The EOI system is a pre-application process that enables candidates to submit their profiles to indicate their interest in applying for the SINP. Unlike traditional application methods, the EOI system allows for a more dynamic selection process based on labor market needs and candidate qualifications.

Key Features of the EOI System:

• Open to All Eligible Candidates: There are no limits on the number of candidates who can submit an EOI. This contrasts with previous models that operated on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Regular Draws: The SINP conducts EOI draws every two months at a minimum, allowing for more frequent opportunities for candidates to receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
• Occupation-Specific Selections: The SINP may conduct targeted draws focused on specific occupations that are in demand within the province. This helps ensure that nominees have positive employment prospects in Saskatchewan.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the ISW categories under the EOI system, candidates must meet several requirements:

• Minimum Points Requirement: Candidates must score at least 60 points out of 110 on the SINP Points Assessment Grid. Points are awarded based on various factors including education, work experience, language ability, age, and connections to Saskatchewan.
• Education and Work Experience: Candidates should have relevant education and at least one year of skilled work experience in an occupation classified under NOC 0, A, or B. The experience must be within the last ten years.
• Language Proficiency: A minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 4 is required, although some employers may require higher scores.
• Settlement Funds: As of August 30, 2024, applicants must demonstrate proof of settlement funds that meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements.

The Points Assessment Grid

The SINP uses a Points Assessment Grid to evaluate candidates based on five key factors:

Candidates must provide documentation to support their claims in these areas when they apply after receiving an ITA.

Application Process After Receiving an ITA

Once candidates receive an ITA through the EOI system:

1. Complete Application Submission: Candidates must submit a complete online application within 60 days from the date of receiving the ITA. This includes providing all required documents and paying a non-refundable application fee (currently $350 CAD, increasing to $500 CAD as of September 1, 2024).
2. Documentation Requirements: Applicants need to provide proof supporting their claimed points, including educational credentials and work experience letters. Failure to provide accurate information may lead to refusal or bans from reapplying.
3. Profile Validity: An EOI profile remains valid for one year from submission. If not selected within that period, candidates can create a new profile.

Recent Selection Results

On September 12, 2024, SINP conducted its latest selection round:

• Total Invitations Issued: 89
• Occupations In-Demand: 32 candidates with a minimum score of 88.
• Express Entry: 57 candidates with a minimum score of 88.

Candidates invited had Educational Credential Assessments or were educated in Canada. The selected occupations included various NOC codes reflecting current labor market demands.

The SINP’s Expression of Interest system provides a structured pathway for skilled workers seeking to immigrate to Saskatchewan. By focusing on labor market needs and allowing for regular draws without caps on submissions, it enhances opportunities for qualified individuals while ensuring that selected nominees can contribute positively to the province’s economy. Candidates should prepare thoroughly by understanding eligibility criteria and gathering necessary documentation ahead of time to maximize their chances of receiving an invitation.

Summary of SINP draw 2024