You could play a crucial role in shaping Canada’s economy and culture, whether you’re part of a rural or Francophone minority community. However, you may have noticed that these communities often face unique labour market and demographic challenges, especially as most Canadians and newcomers settle in urban areas. That’s why the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) has been instrumental in connecting businesses in remote areas with skilled newcomers who help them thrive.
To build on this success, the Government of Canada is introducing two new immigration pilots—following its March 2024 commitment—to help rural and Francophone minority communities like yours attract and retain skilled newcomers who can contribute to your region’s success.
Today, the Honourable Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the launch of the Rural Community Immigration Pilot and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot, along with the selected participating communities. These programs will provide 18 communities with a direct pathway to permanent residence, helping to fill key jobs while encouraging long-term settlement in these areas.
If you’re in a rural community, the Rural Community Immigration Pilot will give you access to a program designed to address labour shortages and help local businesses find the workers they need. Meanwhile, if you’re part of a Francophone minority community outside Quebec, the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot aims to increase the number of French-speaking newcomers settling in your region—supporting economic development and strengthening your community’s demographic presence.
Each selected community will be represented by a local economic development organization, which will work alongside Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to pinpoint critical labour shortages, designate trusted employers, and recommend qualified candidates for permanent residence. IRCC has already begun training these organizations, and your community will soon provide updates on when employers and potential applicants can start the process.
Here’s a look at the participating communities:
Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)
- Pictou County, NS
- North Bay, ON
- Sudbury, ON
- Timmins, ON
- Sault Ste. Marie, ON
- Thunder Bay, ON
- Steinbach, MB
- Altona/Rhineland, MB
- Brandon, MB
- Moose Jaw, SK
- Claresholm, AB
- West Kootenay, BC
- North Okanagan Shuswap, BC
- Peace Liard, BC
Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP)
- Acadian Peninsula, NB
- Sudbury, ON
- Timmins, ON
- Superior East Region, ON
- St. Pierre Jolys, MB
- Kelowna, BC
For more details, visit our website.
Ref: