Comprehensive Guide to Eligible Occupations Under the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)

The Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) is a unique pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers who want to settle in Canada’s rural communities. With 14 participating communities, this program addresses labor shortages and offers newcomers a direct route to permanent settlement. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about the RCIP, including detailed tables of eligible occupations for each community.

Understanding RCIP Eligibility and NOC Requirements

Minimum Experience:

You must have at least one year (1,560 hours) of relevant, continuous, full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience within the last three years before applying.

The RCIP is community-driven and employer-focused. To qualify, you must:

• Secure a job offer from a designated employer in a participating community

• Obtain an endorsement from the community’s economic development organization

• Meet specific work experience, language, education, and financial requirements

  
  

Work Experience Requirements Based on TEER Level

Special Healthcare Exception

If your work experience is in NOC 31301 (Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses – TEER 1), you may qualify with a job offer in either:

• NOC 33102 (Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates – TEER 3), or

• NOC 44101 (Home support workers, caregivers and related occupations – TEER 4)

Eligible NOC Codes and Occupation Titles by Community

Below are the eligible NOC codes and their official titles for each participating RCIP community.

Thunder Bay, Ontario

North Bay, Ontario

Claresholm, Alberta

Steinbach, Manitoba

Timmins, Ontario

Brandon, Manitoba

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

Application Process

1. Secure a job offer from a designated employer in a participating community

2. Obtain a community recommendation (your employer submits this application)

3. Apply for permanent residence through the online PR Portal

4. Prepare and submit your application with all required documents

5. Pay the application fee

Special Exemption for International Graduates

International students who graduated from a public post-secondary institution in the participating community may be exempt from the work experience requirement if they meet specific conditions:

• Completed a program lasting two years or more (or a master’s degree)

• Studied full-time throughout the program

• Received credentials no more than 18 months before applying

• Lived in the community for a significant portion of their studies

Conclusion

If you’re considering the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) or exploring other pathways to Canadian permanent residence, Canadore Immigration is here to help. Our team offers comprehensive, personalized immigration services-from assessing your eligibility and preparing your application to supporting you after you arrive in Canada. We provide tailored solutions, flexible scheduling, and clear guidance every step of the way to maximize your chances of success.

Whether you have questions about the RCIP, want to know about other immigration options, or need help with your application, contact Canadore Immigration for expert support. We’re committed to making your Canadian immigration journey smooth and successful.