Saskatchewan Agriculture Talent Pathway: A New Canada Visa Opportunity for Skilled Agriculture Workers

The Saskatchewan Agriculture Talent Pathway is a branch of the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) created to draw skilled agriculture workers who have secured a valid job offer within the province.

Saskatchewan is taking proactive steps to address labor shortages in its thriving agricultural sector with the launch of the Saskatchewan Agriculture Talent Pathway. A subcategory of the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP), this pathway is designed to attract skilled agriculture workers with a valid job offer, either from abroad or as temporary residents within Canada, to work in Saskatchewan. This initiative reflects Saskatchewan’s commitment to a robust, sustainable agricultural industry and a welcoming environment for international talent.

Why the Agriculture Talent Pathway?

The Agriculture Talent Pathway is a critical piece of Saskatchewan’s strategy to bolster its agricultural industry. With agriculture forming a vital part of the province’s economy – contributing over $3.2 billion in crop exports alone in 2023 – addressing labor gaps in this sector is essential to its continued success. By opening doors for skilled workers worldwide, this pathway supports the province’s long-term goals of growth, economic stability, and international trade competitiveness.

Key Highlights of the Agriculture Talent Pathway

Launched in August 2024, this pathway is already a game-changer for Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry. Here’s a look at the core aspects:

• Labor Shortage Solution: The pathway directly addresses Saskatchewan’s labor needs in agriculture by targeting skilled workers from abroad, as well as temporary residents already in Canada.
• Occupation Variety: The pathway covers a range of roles in agriculture, including positions in food and beverage processing, testing and grading, and general agricultural labor.
• Eligibility Requirements: To ensure a quality workforce, applicants must meet specific criteria such as language proficiency, work experience, education, and an official job offer in the agricultural sector.

Who Is Eligible for the Agriculture Talent Pathway?

To qualify for the Agriculture Talent Pathway, applicants must meet a set of baseline eligibility requirements, which include:

1. Language Proficiency

• Candidates must achieve a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of at least 4 in English or French. However, it’s essential to note that some employers or regulatory bodies may require scores above CLB 4.

2. Education

• Applicants must have completed at least secondary school (high school). Higher education qualifications in agriculture or related fields are advantageous.

3. Work Experience

• Candidates must have either:
  • At least one year of full-time work experience within the past three years in their intended occupation, or
  • Six months of full-time work experience (at least 30 hours per week) with the employer who has provided a Job Approval Letter through the SINP. This work experience can be non-consecutive.

4. Employment in Saskatchewan

• Candidates must demonstrate an intent to work and live in Saskatchewan.
• They must also have a permanent, full-time job offer from an employer in Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector.

5. SINP Job Approval Letter

• Applicants must provide a SINP Job Approval Letter, which serves as proof of employment. Employers must be registered with the SINP to issue this letter.

How to Apply for the Agriculture Talent Pathway

To apply, you need a job offer. To start your search, please visit Saskjobs.ca. Your employer will need to provide you with a Job Approval Letter from the SINP.  After gathering all required documents, applicants can submit their applications through the SINP official portal.

Application Process For The Agriculture Talent Pathway

1. Create an Account: Log in or create an account at SINP Apply Online.
2. Complete the Application: Fill out all sections and upload required documents in PDF format.
3. Submit and Pay: Save and submit the application and pay the application fee.
4. Confirmation: After submission, you’ll receive an email confirming your application has been received.

For more details, visit the official SINP page.

Occupations Covered Under the Agriculture Talent Pathway

The pathway is designed to encompass a broad spectrum of roles within the agriculture industry, enabling individuals with diverse skills to find suitable opportunities.

Full List of 10 Occupations Eligible For Agriculture Talent Pathway

NOC	Description
75101	Material handlers*
84120	Specialized livestock workers and farm machinery operators
85100	Livestock labourers
85101	Harvesting labourers
85103	Nursery and greenhouse labourers
94140	Process control and machine operators, food and beverage processing*
94141	Industrial butchers and meat cutters, poultry preparers and related workers*
94143	Testers and graders, food and beverage processing*
94204	Mechanical assemblers and inspectors*
95106	Labourers in food and beverage processing*

Why Choose Saskatchewan?

Saskatchewan is known for its robust agricultural industry, fertile lands, and a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers. The province not only offers a wealth of career opportunities but also a high quality of life, with affordable living costs and vibrant communities. For those interested in agriculture, Saskatchewan is one of Canada’s top destinations, and it continues to attract global attention as an agricultural powerhouse.

Benefits of Working in Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Sector

1. Competitive Wages and Benefits: Saskatchewan’s agricultural employers offer competitive salaries, along with benefits and potential opportunities for career growth. Many employers in the sector value skilled international workers and are willing to support their integration and long-term career goals.
2. Pathway to Permanent Residency: The SINP Agriculture Talent Pathway offers workers a path to permanent residency. This gives international workers a sense of stability and a future in Canada, enabling them to settle in Saskatchewan with their families and build a fulfilling life.
3. Access to a Growing Economy: As Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector continues to grow, the demand for skilled workers expands. Workers entering through the Agriculture Talent Pathway contribute to a sector that is vital to both local communities and the Canadian economy as a whole.

Why Language Proficiency Matters

While the minimum requirement is a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 4, demonstrating strong language skills is an asset in the agriculture sector. Effective communication is essential, whether for following safety guidelines, interacting with team members, or engaging with clients. For applicants from non-English-speaking countries, improving language skills can enhance integration into the workforce and broader community.

Future of Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Sector

As global demand for food and agricultural products rises, Saskatchewan’s agriculture sector is set to play an increasingly important role. The Agriculture Talent Pathway is not only a solution to current labor shortages but also a forward-looking initiative that aims to build a skilled and stable workforce for the future.

By bringing in experienced, passionate workers from around the world, Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry is poised for continued growth. This pathway empowers both the province and international workers, laying the foundation for a thriving, sustainable agricultural economy.

A Pathway to Long-Term Success in Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Industry

The Agriculture Talent Pathway is a promising avenue for skilled workers seeking long-term employment in Canada’s agricultural industry. Saskatchewan benefits from a steady influx of international talent, while workers have the chance to build a fulfilling career in a supportive and high-demand sector.

For more information on the Agriculture Talent Pathway, eligibility criteria, and application details, visit the official Saskatchewan Immigration website.