In a historic move, Saskatchewan has laid charges for the first time under the province’s immigration protection laws, marking a major step forward in protecting the rights of foreign workers and immigrants. On October 21, 2025, the Government of Saskatchewan announced that three employers, Kartik Kumar Prakash Kumar Patel, Rutvik Hasmukh bhai Patel, and Piyush Kumar Mafatbhai Patel, were charged under The Foreign Worker Recruitment and Immigration Services Act, 2013 (FWRISA) for alleged offenses involving exploitation and threats against foreign workers.

The case, tied to incidents that took place between August 2023 and February 2024 at Guac Mexi Grill in Moose Jaw, reflects the province’s growing focus on holding employers accountable for unfair and unethical recruitment practices.

Details of the Charges

Each of the three accused faces three charges under Sections 22 and 23 of FWRISA. These sections deal directly with protecting the rights, dignity, and fair treatment of foreign workers in Saskatchewan.

According to the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training, the charges include:

• Threatening or taking action against a foreign worker for participating in investigations or filing complaints.
• Exploiting a worker’s trust or lack of experience, using intimidation or manipulation.
• Charging a fee or expense to a foreign worker for employment is strictly prohibited under the law.

The accused are scheduled to appear before Moose Jaw Provincial Court on November 25, 2025.

Why This Case Matters

This is the first time in Saskatchewan’s history that charges have been laid under immigration protection laws, setting an important precedent for fair treatment of newcomers. It sends a powerful message:

Exploitation of foreign workers will not be tolerated, and violations of immigration-related labour laws will be met with the strongest legal consequences. By enforcing these laws, Saskatchewan reinforces its reputation as a safe, fair, and inclusive province for newcomers and international workers contributing to its economy.

Transition from FWRISA to the New Immigration Services Act (ISA)

Although these charges were filed under the Foreign Worker Recruitment and Immigration Services Act (FWRISA), Saskatchewan has since introduced the Immigration Services Act (ISA), 2024, which came into effect on July 1, 2024.

The ISA replaces FWRISA and brings in:

Together, these changes strengthen program integrity and enhance worker protections across Saskatchewan’s immigration and employment systems.

How Saskatchewan Protects Foreign Workers

The Program Compliance Branch of the Ministry of Immigration and Career Training plays a vital role in protecting workers under both FWRISA and ISA. Foreign workers, international students, and immigrants can reach out confidentially if they:

• Experience unfair treatment or exploitation at the workplace.
• Are charged illegal recruitment fees or asked to repay job placement costs.
• Face threats or intimidation from employers or recruiters.

Workers do not need permission from anyone to contact the Program Compliance Branch, and all information is handled confidentially. Importantly, all workers, whether Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or temporary foreign workers, are also protected under the Saskatchewan Employment Act, which includes provisions for employment standards and occupational health and safety.

Why This Is a Milestone for Saskatchewan Immigration

The laying of charges under immigration protection laws is not just about punishing offenders; it’s about ensuring that Saskatchewan continues to be a trustworthy destination for foreign talent. Saskatchewan’s growing industries, from agriculture to hospitality and healthcare, rely heavily on international workers. Ensuring these workers are treated fairly helps sustain the province’s labour market, strengthens its reputation globally, and encourages more skilled individuals to consider immigrating through programs like the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). By maintaining the highest standards of fairness and compliance, Saskatchewan continues to demonstrate its leadership in responsible immigration management.

Building a Safer, Fairer Future for Immigrants

This landmark case is more than a legal milestone; it’s a signal of Canada’s and Saskatchewan’s shared values of fairness, respect, and equality for all. As Saskatchewan enforces its Immigration Services Act, it’s creating a stronger framework where foreign workers can build their lives without fear of exploitation or abuse. Through these efforts, the province not only protects its workers but also strengthens its economy and social fabric.

Protecting Workers, Strengthening Saskatchewan

The charges laid under Saskatchewan’s immigration protection laws represent a critical step toward a more ethical and transparent labour system. By defending the rights of foreign workers and enforcing accountability, the province is setting a strong example for the rest of Canada. For immigrants, temporary workers, and employers alike, these actions reaffirm Saskatchewan’s place as a province where fairness, safety, and opportunity are valued above all else.

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