At Travia Immigration, we understand that receiving a nomination through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is a significant step toward achieving Canadian permanent residency. However, many of our clients often ask: Can I change employers after being nominated by the SINP?

The answer depends on which SINP stream you were nominated under. In this blog, we’ll provide clarity on the implications of changing employers after your SINP nomination and guide you on the appropriate steps to take to ensure your application remains on track.

1. SINP Employer Job Offer Stream

If you were nominated under the Employer Job Offer stream, changing employers can be problematic. This stream is designed for individuals who have secured a full-time, permanent job offer from a Saskatchewan employer. The nomination is directly linked to that specific job offer.

Changing employers after your SINP nomination can potentially jeopardize your permanent residency application. The SINP nominates you based on the understanding that you will fulfill the employment commitment with the Saskatchewan employer who offered you the job. If you switch employers, it may be seen as a breach of the terms of your nomination.

Should you need to change employers, it’s crucial to contact the SINP immediately to explain your situation and seek guidance. In some cases, you may need to submit a new job offer or even reapply for the SINP nomination. To ensure a smooth process, we strongly recommend staying with the employer who supported your application unless absolutely necessary.

2. SINP International Skilled Worker Streams (In-Demand & Express Entry)

For individuals nominated under the International Skilled Worker - Occupation In-Demand or Express Entry streams, the situation is slightly different. These streams are designed for individuals whose skills, qualifications, and work experience align with the labor market needs of Saskatchewan. Your nomination is based on your professional background rather than a specific job offer.

As such, if you were nominated under one of these streams, you may have more flexibility to change employers without impacting your nomination. However, it’s essential to continue meeting the eligibility criteria for permanent residency, such as maintaining your employment in Saskatchewan and contributing to the province’s economy.

Although these streams offer greater flexibility, it’s still important to inform the SINP about any significant changes to your employment status. Keeping the SINP updated will ensure there are no complications as you progress through your permanent residency application.

3. Why Staying With Your Employer Matters

Regardless of the stream under which you were nominated, it is important to recognize that the SINP expects individuals who receive a nomination to live and work in Saskatchewan after obtaining permanent residency. Changing employers too soon could raise concerns about your commitment to the province, which could affect the outcome of your permanent residency application.

For those nominated through the Employer Job Offer stream, staying with your employer is especially crucial. The SINP’s expectations are based on your promise to fulfill the labor market needs of the employer who supported your nomination. A premature job change might imply that you are not honoring this commitment, which could result in complications with your application.

In general, it is advisable to remain with the employer who supported your SINP nomination until you have secured your permanent residency. This will help ensure your immigration process proceeds without issues.

4. What Should You Do if You Need to Change Employers?

If you find it necessary to change employers after your SINP nomination, the first step is to carefully review the terms of your nomination. If you were nominated under the Employer Job Offer stream, reach out to the SINP immediately to discuss your situation and receive specific guidance. In some cases, you may be required to submit a new job offer or even reapply for the SINP nomination.

For those nominated under the International Skilled Worker streams, while you have more flexibility, we recommend notifying the SINP of any significant changes to your employment. Transparency is key to ensuring your application remains on track and avoiding any unexpected delays.

At Travia Immigration, we specialize in helping individuals navigate complex immigration processes. If you have questions about changing employers or need assistance with your SINP nomination, we’re here to provide expert guidance every step of the way.

5. Conclusion

Whether or not you can change employers after receiving a SINP nomination largely depends on which stream you were nominated under. If you were nominated through the Employer Job Offer stream, staying with your current employer is vital to avoid jeopardizing your nomination and permanent residency application. For those nominated through the International Skilled Worker streams, there is more flexibility, but you should still inform the SINP of any significant changes to your employment status.

At Travia Immigration, we’re committed to providing you with the personalized support you need to ensure your SINP nomination process goes smoothly. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you need expert advice on how to handle a change of employer, we invite you to reach out to us.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact us at info@traviaimmigration.com. We are here to assist you in making informed decisions and navigating your path to Canadian permanent residency with confidence.