SASKATCHEWAN'S IMMIGRATION PROGRAM BRINGS FAMILIES TOGETHER

The Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) is opening up to bring immigrants family members to the province. Starting today, a Family Members category under SINP will allow Saskatchewan residents to support family members from foreign countries who want to come to the province.

"For those of us who have deep roots in the province, we have family near us. Immigrants, like everyone else, need their families too," Minister responsible for Immigration Pat Atkinson said. "That is why we are expanding our Immigrant Nominee Program to include a Family Members category so that immigrant families can be reunited."

Under the new category, Saskatchewan citizens can support family members from abroad who want to come to live here and can work in this province. Supporting family members must provide settlement assistance to the applicant and their family which could include financial support.

Eligible family members include mother, father, sister, brother, daughter, son, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, grandchild, first cousin, or step-relative of equal standing who meet the eligibility criteria.

"Saskatchewan continues to work on meeting labour market shortfalls through education and employment for the province's young people and the growing number of Métis and First Nations youth," Atkinson said. "The creation of a Family Members category is another way to help the province meet its goals."

Through enhancements to the Saskatchewan immigration program, approximately 5,000 new immigrants a year will be approved to immigrate to the province by 2008-09.

For more information on this and other immigration programs in Saskatchewan, visit the website at www.gr.gov.sk.ca/immigration.

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For More Information, Contact:

Maureen Boyle Government Relations Regina Phone: (306) 787-5959