How to become a Designated Employer
West Kootenay RCIP designates employers on an ongoing basis.
Only employers operating in one of the five priority sectors can apply to become designated.
All employers must go through a mandatory designation process to participate in the West Kootenay Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP). This process ensures only eligible, committed employers can access the pilot.
Note: Designation does not guarantee that a candidate will receive a community recommendation or permanent residence. Every job offer and candidate must undergo a full review by both the West Kootenay RCIP (community level) and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (federal level).
Step 1: Check Employer Eligibility
To qualify, your business or organization must:
- Be operating in the West Kootenay RCIP region (see map).
- Conducting business/ organizational operations in a West Kootenay Priority Sector (see priorities list).
- Have labour needs in a West Kootenay Priority Occupation (see priorities list).
- Have been in continuous, active operation under the same management for at least 2 years.
- Be in good standing with employment standards, occupational health and safety laws, and federal immigration regulations.
- Be seeking to hire full-time, non-seasonal workers (minimum 30 hours/week).
- Be able and willing to support newcomer settlement in the community.
Step 2: Contact West Kootenay RCIP
Once you’ve assessed your eligibility, contact West Kootenay RCIP to confirm eligibility and get access to the required training and Employer Designation Application.
Step 3: Complete Mandatory Training
To become a designated employer, you must complete the following training through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):
- Intercultural Competency Training which helps foster a welcoming, inclusive workplace.
- IRCC Employer Onboarding Training which covers program rules and employer responsibilities
Step 4: Submit Employer Designation Application
Once you’ve sent West Kootenay RCIP your certificates of completion for both mandatory training courses, you will be sent a link to the Employer Designation Application Form.
Submit the application form to West Kootenay RCIP, including:
- Business information (address, CRA number, NAICS code)
- Labour needs (job titles, NOC/TEER codes, wages, anticipated start dates)
- Evidence of operational history
- Description of recruitment efforts
- Certificates of completed training
- Settlement support commitments
Step 5: Await Assessment & Decision
West Kootenay RCIP will:
- Review your application
- Confirm that your business meets all requirements
- Notify you if additional information is needed
If approved, you’ll receive designation status and can begin submitting Recommendation Applications for candidates you’d like to hire.
How to Maintain Your Designated Employer Status
Once designated:
- You must notify West Kootenay RCIP of any changes (e.g. candidate leaves, business changes ownership).
- You must submit accurate and complete recommendation applications for each candidate.
- You will be subject to annual review, which may include site visits or requests for further proof to confirm continued compliance.
Designated Employer List
Important Notice for Candidates and Immigration Representatives:
Do not contact these employers directly to request a job offer unless a position has been publicly advertised. Designation does not guarantee that an employer is hiring.