Federal Government Announces Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CCC) was pleased with the announcement of federal government's  Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). With the closure of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (now Immigration, Refugess and Citizenship Canada) offices across Canada since 2012, many rural and northern communities ability to attract, retain and service newcomers and international students was impacted and subsequently, impeded the economic growth of these communities. Applications are community-based, and must be submitted by an economic organization. The organization that submits is expected to manage the pilot if the community is chosen. Medicine Hat is eligible for participation in this project.

This new pilot program was developed to help spread the benefits of economic immigration to smaller communities throughout Canada. The Government of Canada will work with local communities to:

• use immigration to help meet local labour market needs and support regional economic development
• test a new pathway to permanent residence in rural Canada for skilled foreign nationals at various skill levels
• create welcoming environments that encourage and help new immigrants to stay in their new communities

Applications are due March 1, 2019, full details are available here. Read the Canadian Chamber policy: Improving Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) Regional Settlement Strategy