Publish Date: 08/03/2024
IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) announces two new immigration pilots for
rural and French-minority communities, emphasizing the importance of regional immigration in
strengthening economies.
The existing Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) will transition into a permanent
program, highlighting its success in addressing labor shortages in 11 communities across five
provinces.
The new Rural Community Immigration Pilot aims to continue providing rural communities
access to programs addressing labor shortages, offering eligible newcomers the opportunity for
permanent residence in Canada.
The Francophone Community Immigration Pilot focuses on increasing French-speaking
newcomers outside Quebec, contributing to the economic development and demographic weight of
Francophone minority communities.
Both pilot programs are set to launch in Fall 2024, with the community application process
opening in the spring, allowing select communities to participate.
The eligibility criteria for the RNIP include meeting federal criteria, having a recommendation
from the designated communities, one year of eligible work experience, a genuine job offer,
language proficiency, sufficient settlement funds, and the intent to live in the community.
IRCC's commitment to French-language immigration is evident in the issuance of 9,500 Invitations
to Apply (ITAs) in two draws for French-language candidates in 2024, highlighting the
significance of language skills in the immigration process.