What Is the Rural Northern Immigration Program?
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) was a community-focused initiative launched in August 2019. It was designed to boost economic immigration by attracting skilled foreign workers to smaller Canadian communities.
The program aimed to address labor shortages and help rural areas thrive by creating a path to permanent residence for individuals wanting to work and settle in one of the participating regions. However, as of August 31, 2024, the RNIP officially ended, and no new applications are being accepted.
Canada No Longer Accepts New Applications
The RNIP closed on August 31, 2024, but Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will continue to process applications submitted before this date. Applicants who meet the criteria and submitted their applications on or before the deadline can still apply for a 1-year work permit. This permit allows them to work while their permanent residence application is being processed.
What to Know About the 1-Year Work Permit
If you’ve applied for permanent residence through the RNIP, you may also qualify for a 1-year work permit. This permit is only valid for one year and is specific to the employer and community tied to your RNIP application.
To be eligible, you must have a valid job offer, a recommendation from one of the participating communities, and meet all work permit requirements. You’ll also need to provide an acknowledgment of receipt letter from IRCC.
In addition, your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit. Their permit would only allow them to work in the same community as you, giving both of you a chance to settle and build your lives together while waiting for the permanent residence decision.
Post-RNIP Developments
- Rural Community Immigration Pilot: This program aims to continue supporting rural communities by providing pathways to permanent residence for newcomers who can help address critical labor shortages and are committed to long-term settlement in these areas.
- Francophone Community Immigration Pilot: Focused on increasing the number of French-speaking newcomers settling in Francophone minority communities outside of Quebec.
How to Apply for the Work Permit
Applications must be submitted online, and paper applications won’t be accepted. To apply, you’ll need to include the following:
- Acknowledgment of receipt letter from your RNIP permanent residence application
- Job offer number
- IMM 0112 form (community recommendation)
- Proof of work experience
- Education credentials
- Language test results
The process may vary depending on where you’re applying from. If you are currently in Canada as a visitor without a study or work permit, you can still apply for the work permit online.
The program ended on August 31, 2024, as per IRCC’s closure decision.
No, new applications are no longer accepted. Only applications submitted before August 31, 2024, will be processed.
How Long Is the RNIP Work Permit Valid For?
The work permit is valid for one year and is specific to your job and community.
Can My Spouse Work if I Get a Work Permit?
Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work in the same community.
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