If you have been thinking about migrating to Canada, then you must be aware of the Express Entry Program. The program follows a points-based approach where each eligible candidate is assigned a CRS score. The highest-scoring applicants are then invited to apply for the Canada PR Visa.
Many people check their score on the CRS calculator and feel disheartened when their score is not very high. They feel that they are not scoring enough Canada PR points. But is Express Entry the only way to migrate to Canada? The answer is No.
Consider applying through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program. The best part about this program is that it does not use your CRS score. Read on to know more.
What is the SINP (Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program)?
The SINP is the provincial nominee program of the province of Saskatchewan in Canada. It is one of the best immigration programs for people who do not meet the requirements of the Express Entry Program. It has a list of over 200 eligible occupations which means more people can now meet its eligibility criteria.
Saskatchewan invites eligible candidates to apply for a provincial nomination through the following categories:
- International Skilled Worker: This is for skilled professionals who intend to settle in the province of Saskatchewan. This stream is further sub-divided into three categories:
- International Skilled Worker- Saskatchewan Express Entry
- International Skilled Worker- Occupations in-demand
- International Skilled Worker- Employment offer
- Saskatchewan Experience: If you are a foreign worker who is already working in Saskatchewan, then you may apply for a provincial nomination through this stream. The sub-categories under this stream are:
- Existing Work Permit
- Health Professionals
- Hospitality Sector Projects
- Long Haul Truck Driver Projects
- Students
- Entrepreneur and Farming Stream: If you want to set up a business or farm in Saskatchewan, you may apply under this stream.
Most of the Express Entry candidates prefer to apply through the Saskatchewan Express Entry category.
Eligibility requirements for the Saskatchewan Express Entry Program
- You must score at least 60 points on the Saskatchewan immigration points grid
- You should have a language score of at least CLB 7 (6 on each module) in IELTS or an equivalent score
- You should have at least completed post-secondary education or training that is admissible in Canada
- You must have work experience in an eligible occupation. If your occupation is on the “excluded occupation list”, you will not qualify for the SINP.
- Your work experience and your education should be in the same field
- You should have sufficient funds for yourself and your family along with a settlement plan
Eligibility requirements for the Saskatchewan Occupations In-demand Program
- You must have at least 1-year work experience in an eligible occupation. Your occupation should fall under NOC 0, A or B category. It must not be listed on the excluded occupation list.
- You must score at least 60 points on the Saskatchewan points assessment grid
- You must have completed a post-secondary education credential equivalent to a Canadian 1-year diploma
- You must score at least CLB 4 or higher in either English or French
- You must have sufficient funds for yourself and your family
How to apply for the Saskatchewan Express Entry Program?
To apply for the Saskatchewan Express Entry Program, you must first create an Express Entry profile. You will also need to submit an EOI to the SINP. Eligible applicants will receive an invitation to apply for a provincial nomination. You can add 600 points to your CRS score if you get a provincial nomination. This means that you will get an ITA to apply for Canada PR in the next draw.
How to apply for the Saskatchewan Occupations In-demand Program?
To apply under this category, you need to submit an EOI to the SINP. Eligible candidates will receive an invitation to apply for a provincial nomination. Once you receive the invitation, you may apply for a provincial nomination through the SINP. Those who are successful in obtaining a provincial nomination can proceed to apply for a Canada PR Visa to the IRCC