The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program has announced that Employer Position Assessments (EPA) intake will open on May 4, 2026, for employers seeking to hire foreign workers through provincial immigration pathways.
Previously known as the Job Approval Form (JAF), the EPA is a key requirement for employers supporting candidates under Provincial Nominee Program Canada streams and those planning to Apply for Canada PR.
Sector-Based Intake Timings Announced
According to the official update, intake will open in phases based on sector:
- Transportation and Retail Trade sectors
🕒 May 4, 2026 at 8:30 AM CST - Accommodation and Food Services sector
🕒 May 4, 2026 at 12:30 PM CST
Employers are required to wait until their designated intake time before accessing the system.
First-Come, First-Served System
The intake will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning available spots are expected to fill quickly.
To improve their chances of approval, employers are advised to:
- Complete all EPA details in advance
- Ensure documents are ready before intake opens
- Submit immediately once the system goes live
Official guidance emphasizes that fully prepared applications have a higher likelihood of securing a spot.
Important Rules for Capped Sectors
The intake applies specifically to capped sectors, which include:
- Retail Trade
- Trucking (Transportation)
- Accommodation and Food Services
These sectors are limited to a portion of the SINP’s annual nomination allocation and can only submit applications during designated intake windows.
Additionally:
- Applications submitted outside active intake periods will be closed and returned
- Candidates must generally have 6 months or less remaining on their Work permit Canada to qualify in these sectors
What is an Employer Position Assessment (EPA)?
An Employer Position Assessment (EPA) is an official approval that allows Saskatchewan employers to hire international workers under the SINP.
It verifies:
- Employer eligibility
- Job offer validity
- Candidate eligibility
Once approved, the EPA supports the candidate’s application for a Work permit Canada and eventual Canada permanent residence.
Why This Matters
This update is important for:
- Employers planning to hire foreign workers
- Candidates exploring Canada PR through employer-driven pathways
- Applicants under Saskatchewan PNP streams
With limited intake windows and capped quotas, timing and preparation are critical.
What This Means for Applicants
For candidates and employers:
- Ensure all documentation is ready before May 4
- Coordinate closely with employers for EPA submission
- Monitor intake timings carefully
Since SINP pathways are directly linked to Canada PR eligibility, securing an EPA can be a crucial step toward permanent residence.
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