About the Rural Community Immigration Pilot
The Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) is a community-led program that helps local employers fill labour shortages by connecting them with skilled workers from around the world who want to live and work in our region long-term.
Through the RCIP, employers can become designated to offer jobs to qualified candidates, and candidates can apply for a community recommendation—a key step in the immigration process. The goal is to support newcomers in building a future here while strengthening our local economy and community.
How It Works
The Rural Community Immigration Pilot is a multi-step process. Each part plays an important role:
- Employer Designation
Employers who want to hire international candidates must first apply to become designated. This shows they are committed to fair recruitment practices and to helping newcomers settle successfully in the community.
→ Learn more about Employer Designation - Candidate Eligibility & Application
Once a designated employer offers a job, the candidate must meet federal eligibility requirements (language, education, work experience, and more) and show they plan to live in the community.
→ View the Guide for Applicants - Community Recommendation
If the candidate meets the requirements, the employer submits a recommendation application. If approved, the candidate receives a recommendation certificate and can then apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residency.
→ How to Apply for a Community Recommendation
Have Questions?
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions we hear from both employers and applicants.
→ Visit our FAQ page