The Apprenticeship Training Allowance Regulations, enacted under The Executive Government Administration Act and The Human Resources, Labour and Employment Act through Order in Council 382/2025, establish a framework for financial assistance to apprentices in Saskatchewan who require support while pursuing technical training.

The regulations define key terms central to implementation, such as “apprentice,” “apprenticeship training allowance,” “apprenticeship training program,” and “commission,” referring to the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission. They also provide clarity on dependants, both children and spouses, whose financial status affects allowance amounts. Eligibility hinges on being enrolled in an approved apprenticeship program, having a valid social insurance number, being legally entitled to work in Saskatchewan, and either being eligible for employment insurance or meeting related requirements under the Canada-Saskatchewan Labour Market Development Agreement.

Two types of allowances are available: the living away from home allowance and the living allowance. The first requires apprentices to maintain a second residence at least 50 kilometres from their primary residence while in training, offering $250 per week for those in Northern Saskatchewan and $200 elsewhere. The living allowance supports apprentices regardless of residence, with amounts based on dependants: $196 weekly for individuals without dependents, rising incrementally to $347 for those with four or more. These payments are issued bi-weekly and capped at 36 months over the lifetime of an apprentice.

Applications must be submitted in the form specified by the minister, accompanied by supporting records, authorizations, and, in the case of a living away from home allowance, proof of a second residence. Once approved, payments are conditional on continued eligibility. Apprentices must immediately report changes in circumstances, such as employment or family status, that might affect entitlement or payment amounts. Failure to disclose changes can result in allowances being varied, cancelled, or declared overpayments, which are recoverable as debts owed to the Crown.

Administration of the program may be delegated to the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission, which can receive and verify applications, hold and disburse funds, and exercise discretion delegated by the minister within regulatory parameters.

Strict prohibitions apply to false or misleading applications, nondisclosure of material facts, or failure to complete training programs while receiving allowances. Recipients may also be subject to audits and must provide requested information to confirm eligibility. Overpayments arising from contraventions, non-compliance, or early withdrawal from training are treated as debts to the Crown and enforceable under The Financial Administration Act, 1993.

Saskatchewan (382/2025) September 16, 2025
Disclaimer: Insights are for informational purposes only and do not reflect RRI’s official position or constitute legal opinion.