Today we're diving into a program you might not have heard much about, but it's been a game-changer for many of our clients: the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot.
As part of Canada’s wider immigration efforts, this initiative aims to help spread immigration benefits more evenly across the country, specifically boosting rural and northern areas. These regions are crucial to Canada's prosperity, and this program ensures they get the talent and workforce they need, addressing local labor shortages, and supporting economic growth and community development.
The RNIP was launched in 2019 and set to operate until this year, however, in March 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the launch of two brand-new immigration pilots coming this fall. One is specifically designed for rural communities, and the other focuses on francophone minority communities across Canada. But not just that, they also confirmed that the RNIP will be transitioning into a permanent program.
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Here's an overview of how the RNIP works:
1: The program is only available for designated rural and northern participating communities in Canada. These communities are selected based on their size, location, and economic needs.
Some of those included in the list are North Bay and sudbury in Ontario, Vernon in BC, Brandon in Manitoba and Moose Jaw in Saskatchewan
2: Community Endorsement is required for any individuals who wish to immigrate through the RNIP. They must first secure a job offer from an employer in a participating community to then apply for such endorsement. The community assesses the applicant's connection to the area and their ability to integrate into the community.
* If endorsed by the community, the applicant can then apply for permanent residence to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The application is processed through the Express Entry system, which manages the intake of skilled workers.
* When it comes to the applicants, they must meet the eligibility criteria for one of the federal economic immigration programs managed through Express Entry, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, or the Canadian Experience Class. They must also meet the specific eligibility requirements of the RNIP and the community they wish to settle in.
If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada and you’re looking for some guidance and support, you’re at the right place! We are licensed and we have successfully supported applicants from more than 50 nationalities to apply for Canadian immigration through Studies, Working, Sponsorship, and Business. Get a FREE email assessment, click here.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
Ensure that the community you're interested in is participating in the RNIP and make sure you meet the eligibility criteria for one of the federal economic immigration programs managed through Express Entry.
Step 2: Secure a Job Offer
Look for employment opportunities in a participating community. You'll need a valid job offer from an employer in one of these communities to apply for the RNIP.
You also need to confirm that the job offer meets the requirements of the RNIP and that it's in an eligible occupation.
Step 3: Apply for Community Endorsement
Reach out to the designated authority in the community where you've secured a job offer. They will provide you with guidance on the endorsement process and required documentation.
Prepare and submit your application for endorsement to the community. This may include providing information about your ties to the community, your intention to settle there, and your ability to contribute to the local economy.
The community will assess your application and decide whether to endorse you for immigration through the RNIP.
Step 4: Apply for Permanent Residence
If endorsed by the community, create an Express Entry profile and indicate that you have a provincial nomination or a job offer from a participating community.
If you meet the criteria of one of the federal economic immigration programs and have a valid job offer or provincial nomination, you may receive an ITA to apply for permanent residence.
Prepare and submit your application for permanent residence to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Include all required documents and pay the necessary fees.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Your permanent residence application will be processed by IRCC. Processing times may vary depending on various factors, including the volume of applications and the completeness of your application.
Step 6: Receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence
Once your application is approved, you'll receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and a permanent resident visa (if applicable). This allows you to move to Canada as a permanent resident.
Upon arrival in Canada, settle in the community where you were endorsed and begin contributing to the local economy and community.
Do you want to become a Permanent Resident in Canada? Our licensed consultants could assess your profile against +75 immigration programs across Canada. Get a FREE email assessment by filling out our form, click here.
There are resources provided by the participating community to assist with your settlement, such as orientation programs, language training, and employment support services.
By following these steps and leveraging available resources, you can navigate the Canadian Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot and pursue your goal of immigrating to a rural or northern community in Canada through a direct path to PR.
If you’re thinking about immigrating whether permanently or temporarily - you’re at the right place! Our team speaks over +9 languages, and we help applicants from over 50 different countries during their immigration process. Get a FREE email assessment, click here.
If you’re ready to apply and would like a 1-on-1 session with me or one of immigration team members at INGWE, you can also book a session directly using this consultation link.