Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) 2026 Program Details
Last Updated On 11 February 2026, 11:11 AM EST (Toronto Time)
As Canada’s RCIP program enters its second year, 9 out of 14 communities have released their 2026 program details.
This guide covers the priority occupations, intake schedules, and employer requirements for the upcoming year.
The RCIP aims to attract skilled immigrants to rural and smaller communities in Canada.
Unlike other programs, RCIP offers direct pathways to permanent residence for those willing to settle in these areas.
9 RCIP Communities Overview for 2026
- Pictou County, Nova Scotia: 6 sectors including Tech & Manufacturing
- North Bay, Ontario: Added Science Sector
- Thunder Bay, Ontario: Occupation Limits
- Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario: 20 Apps/Employer
- Timmins Region, Ontario: Dual Program (RCIP/FCIP)
- Greater Sudbury, Ontario: 100+ Employers
- Brandon, Manitoba: 15% Health Reserve
- North Okanagan-Shuswap, British Columbia: Points System
- Claresholm, Alberta: 30 Allocations
Pictou County, Nova Scotia RCIP Priority Occupations for 2026
The Pictou County Partnership has released the details for its 2026 RCIP program.
Pictou County aims to attract skilled immigrants to build their futures in rural Nova Scotia.
Key 2026 Dates:
- Employer Designation Applications Open: February 17, 2026
- First Recommendation Intake: March 1-15, 2026
2026 Priority Sectors:
- Business, Finance, and Administration
- Health Occupations
- Sales and Services
- Trades, Transport and Equipment Operators
- Manufacturing
- Education, Social, and Community
Pictou County Priority Occupations:
- Various occupations ranging from Accounting to Electronics Assembly
North Bay, Ontario RCIP Priority Occupations for 2026
The North Bay & Area RCIP program has announced significant updates for 2026.
