The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) is a community-driven immigration program that allows skilled foreign workers to move to smaller communities in Canada. It aims to support economic growth in rural and northern areas by attracting new talent.
Participating Communities
RNIP is available in specific communities across five provinces:
✔ Ontario – North Bay, Sudbury, Timmins, Sault Ste. Marie, Thunder Bay
✔ Manitoba – Brandon, Altona/Rhineland
✔ Saskatchewan – Moose Jaw
✔ Alberta – Claresholm
✔ British Columbia – Vernon, West Kootenay
Each community has its own eligibility criteria and job opportunities.
Who Qualifies for RNIP?
To be eligible, you must meet both federal requirements and community-specific criteria.
1. Have a Valid Job Offer
- The job must be full-time, permanent, and non-seasonal
- It must be from an employer in a participating RNIP community
- The salary must meet the prevailing wage for that occupation
2. Meet Work Experience or Education Requirements
✔ Work Experience Route:
- At least one year (1,560 hours) of work experience in the past three years
- The experience must be in any skilled occupation (NOC 0, A, B, C, D)
✔ Education Route (for Graduates):
- A post-secondary degree or diploma from a school in a participating RNIP community
- The program must have been at least two years long
3. Language Requirements
You must meet the minimum language scores based on your job’s skill level:
- NOC 0, A: CLB 6
- NOC B: CLB 5
- NOC C, D: CLB 4
4. Proof of Settlement Funds
Unless you are already working in Canada, you must show you have enough money to support yourself and your family.
✔ Example Fund Requirements:
- Single applicant: $9,500
- Family of four: $17,000
5. Commitment to Living in the Community
You must demonstrate a genuine intention to live and work in the RNIP community.
How to Apply for RNIP
✔ Step 1: Get a job offer from an RNIP-designated employer
✔ Step 2: Apply for a community recommendation
✔ Step 3: If approved, apply for permanent residence with IRCC