Full Package
$4000
End-to-End Representation
Consultation
$50 - $200
One-Time Consultation
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)
The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) program has extended the community recommendation period until July 31, 2024, providing candidates an opportunity to submit complete permanent residence applications until August 31, 2024.
To be eligible, candidates must secure a genuine job offer in one of the participating communities. The job offered must align with specific requirements:
- It must be located within the community, full-time, non-seasonal, and permanent.
- The wage should meet or exceed the minimum set by the Job Bank for the job offer’s National Occupational Classification (NOC).
- The job offer must match the candidate’s skill level based on NOC.
Each participating community has its own recommendation process, details of which can be found on their respective websites. When applying, candidates are required to submit supporting documents, and it’s crucial to provide copies, not originals.
The application process became mandatory online starting September 23, 2022. Candidates may need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) as part of the process. Detailed instruction guides are available, with specific forms required based on the date of community recommendation application.
Employers and designated Economic Development Organizations also play a role in the application process. Employers must fill out forms like IMM 5984, and organizations must provide a recommendation through form IMM 0112.
Biometrics, fees, and submission are integral components of the application process. Candidates must ensure all questions are answered, the application is electronically signed, and supporting documents are uploaded before submission.
Additionally, candidates have the option to apply for an optional 1-year work permit, allowing them to work while their permanent residence application is processed. Spouses or common-law partners can also apply for an open work permit.
It is essential to carefully follow the guidelines to avoid any application refusals. The use of a representative is permitted, with specific guidelines to be adhered to, and there are detailed specifications for photo submissions and guidance for addressing technical issues during the application process.
You can also get to know other immigration pathways more suited to each particular situation. All of our fees and packages are also available!
Book a consultation today to discuss your eligibility and take your first step towards living in Canada. Let us guide you through the The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) and make your Canadian dream a reality.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
JOB OFFER REQUIREMENTS
SETTLEMENT FUNDS
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
To meet the educational criteria for the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), candidates must possess one of the following:
- Canadian Educational Credential:
- Canadian secondary school (high school) diploma.
- Canadian post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree.
- Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) Report:
- Obtain an ECA report from a designated organization or professional body.
- The report should be less than 5 years old from the date of application.
- The ECA must confirm the equivalence of your foreign educational credential to a Canadian secondary school diploma or post-secondary certificate, diploma, or degree.
LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
The language proficiency requirements are as follows:
NOC 0 and A: Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB)/Niveau de compétence linguistique canadien (NCLC) 6
NOC B: CLB/NCLC 5
NOC C and D: CLB/NCLC 4
Applicants must provide language test results from a designated language test, and these results should be less than 2 years old when submitting the application.
WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS
Due to COVID-19 disruptions, there’s now an exemption from the continuous work experience requirement. You can accumulate one year of qualifying work experience within the last three years, regardless of continuity, provided other eligibility criteria are met.
Typically, one year of continuous work experience (at least 1,560 hours) in the past three years is required, unless exempt.
For calculation:
Include hours from part-time and full-time roles.
Covering different occupations and employers is acceptable.
Accumulate hours over a minimum of 12 months.
Include hours from work within or outside Canada (if allowed).
Exclude unpaid hours (volunteering or internships) and self-employed hours.
Align your work experience with the skill level required in the National Occupational Classification (NOC) specified in your job offer:
NOC 0 job offer: Work experience in NOC 0 or A.
NOC A job offer: Work experience in NOC 0, A, or B.
NOC B job offer: Work experience in NOC A, B, or C.
NOC C job offer: Work experience in NOC B or C.
NOC D job offer: Work experience in NOC D.
Ensure your work experience covers most main duties and all essential duties in your NOC, including activities in the lead statement. Detailed duties for your job title can be found on the NOC web page.
JOB OFFER REQUIREMENTS
The job offer must meet specific criteria, including being full-time, non-seasonal, and permanent. The wage offered should meet or exceed the minimum wage for the job’s NOC category. Additionally, there are exceptions and specific requirements based on the candidate’s work experience and the NOC level of the job.
SETTLEMENT FUNDS
Unless you are already legally working in Canada, you must demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members during the settlement period in your community.
This requirement extends to supporting family members, even if they are not relocating to Canada with you. Borrowing money from others is not permissible, and the funds must be readily available for living expenses for your family, irrespective of their presence in Canada.
Acceptable proofs include:
Bank account statements
Documents ensuring a predetermined sum (banker’s drafts, cheques, traveller’s cheques, or money orders)
If your spouse accompanies you, jointly held funds can be considered. If the account is under their name only, you must prove access to the money.
The funds must be accessible both at the time of application and when a permanent resident visa is issued.
The required amount depends on factors such as whether you applied for community recommendation and the application date. The figures are updated annually and are based on 12.50% of the low-income cut-off for rural areas.
Family size includes yourself, spouse/common-law partner, dependent children, and your spouse/common-law partner’s dependent children, regardless of their immigration status or whether they are accompanying you. The minimum required funds, effective April 25, 2023, are as follows:
- 1 person: $2,367 CAD
- 2 people: $2,947 CAD
- 3 people: $3,623 CAD
- 4 people: $4,399 CAD
- 5 people: $4,989 CAD
- 6 people: $5,627 CAD
- 7 people: $6,265 CAD
- Additional family members: $637 CAD each
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
PROCESSING FEES
COMMUNITY RECOMMENDATIONS
ONLINE APPLICATION
BIOMETRICS AND DOCUMENTATION
WORK PERMIT (OPTIONAL)
APPLICATION CHECKLIST
To apply for the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot stream, there is a set of documents that need to be gathered. Those include:
- Generic Application Form to Canada (IMM 0008)
- Schedule A: Background/Declaration (IMM 5669)
- Offer of Employment to a Foreign National (IMM 5984)
- Schedule 1 – Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (IMM 5911)
- Recommendation from the designated Economic Development Organization (IMM 0112)
- Supplementary Information – Your Travels (IMM 5562)
- Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)
- Use of a Representative (if applicable, IMM 5476)
- Travel Documents and Passports
- Proof of Language Proficiency
- Proof of Education
- Proof of Work Experience
- Proof of Settlement Funds
- Identity and Civil Status Documents
- Police Certificates
- Photo Requirements
- Fee Payment
- Children’s information (if applicable)
PROCESSING FEES
The fee for the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot is set at a minimum of $1,365. It’s crucial to stay informed about fee updates and changes. Applicants are encouraged to check for the latest information to ensure accurate financial planning for their permanent residence application. If you decide to retain us as your representative, some professional fees will be applicable.
COMMUNITY RECOMMENDATIONS
Communities participating in the RNIP recommend candidates based on their eligibility, job offer, and adherence to community-specific criteria. The recommendation period is extended until July 31, 2024. Each community has its own recommendation process, and candidates should refer to community websites for detailed information.
ONLINE APPLICATION
As of September 23, 2022, it is mandatory to apply online for the RNIP. The application process involves creating a Permanent Residence online application portal account and filling out digital forms, including the Generic Application Form, Schedule A, Additional Family Information, and Supplementary Information – Your travels.
BIOMETRICS AND DOCUMENTATION
Applicants may need to provide biometrics, including fingerprints and photos, and must pay the biometric fee. A range of documents, including forms for the employer and the designated Economic Development Organization of the participating community, is required. These documents should be submitted online with the application.
WORK PERMIT (OPTIONAL)
Candidates applying for permanent residence under the RNIP may be eligible for a 1-year work permit. To qualify, they need an eligible offer of employment, a recommendation from a participating community, eligibility for a work permit, and an acknowledgment of receipt letter. The work permit is specific to the RNIP, valid for one year, and allows work only for the employer offering the job in the participating community.
Program Timeline
Job Offer and Community Selection
Secure a qualifying job offer and choose a participating community. Apply for Community Recommendation through the designated Economic Development Organization, ensuring compliance for a successful endorsement.
Complete Permanent Residence Application
Collect all necessary documents for the permanent residence application based on the date of your community recommendation. Follow the specific Instruction Guide (IMM 0118A or IMM 0118) and use digital forms for a seamless application process.
Biometrics, Fee Payment, and Submission
If aged between 14 and 79, schedule and complete the biometrics process within 30 days of receiving the instruction letter. Pay the required fees and ensure all elements of the application, including electronic signatures and supporting documents, are complete before submission.
Work Permit Application (Optional)
If seeking a 1-year work permit while awaiting permanent residence, ensure eligibility with an eligible job offer, community recommendation, and acknowledgment of receipt letter. Spouses or partners can apply for an open work permit simultaneously. Apply online, submitting all necessary forms and supporting documentation.
Our Professional Fees
What is the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)?
RNIP is a Canadian immigration program designed to address labor market needs in rural and northern communities by allowing eligible candidates to apply for permanent residence with a job offer from a participating community.
How do I know if I am eligible for the RNIP?
To be eligible, you need a genuine job offer in a participating community, meet specific job requirements, have the required work experience, education, language proficiency, and meet community-specific criteria.
What is the significance of the community recommendation in the RNIP?
Community recommendation is a crucial step in the RNIP process. It signifies that a designated Economic Development Organization in a participating community has endorsed your job offer and believes you will integrate well into the community.
Can I apply for RNIP if I am currently outside of Canada?
Yes, you can apply from both within and outside Canada. However, you need to meet all eligibility requirements, including having a valid job offer from a participating community.
What language proficiency is required for RNIP?
Language requirements vary based on the National Occupational Classification (NOC) category. NOC 0 and A require CLB/NCLC 6, NOC B requires CLB/NCLC 5, and NOC C and D require CLB/NCLC 4.
How long is the community recommendation valid?
The validity of community recommendation is determined by the participating community, and it is recommended to check with the specific community for their timeline.
Can my family accompany me through the RNIP process?
Yes, your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children can accompany you. They may also be eligible for open work permits.
Is there a minimum wage requirement for the job offer in RNIP?
Yes, the wage offered must meet or exceed the Job Bank’s minimum wage for the specific National Occupational Classification (NOC) of the job.
Can I apply for a work permit under RNIP while waiting for permanent residence?
Yes, eligible candidates with a job offer can apply for a 1-year work permit, allowing them to work while their permanent residence application is processed.
What happens if my community recommendation expires before I apply for permanent residence?
It is essential to submit your permanent residence application before the community recommendation expires. If it expires, you may need to reapply or consult with the community for guidance.
