Claresholm, Alberta, accepting immigration applications through Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot

Claresholm, Alberta, opened applications for the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) on February 11.

Located an hour and a half drive south of Calgary, the town of Claresholm will recommend up to 20 immigrants and their families for permanent residence in 2020.

The western-Canadian town is the latest community to open its doors to immigration candidates. The five communities now accepting applications through the pilot include:

The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot is designed to support communities facing labour shortages by connecting employers with skilled immigrants.

Candidates are required to have an eligible job offer for a full-time permanent position in one of the participating communities.

Find out if you are eligible for any Canadian immigration programs

Out of the 11 communities involved in the program, six have yet to start accepting applications:

North Bay, Ontario
Sudbury, Ontario
Timmins, Ontario
Thunder Bay, Ontario
Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
West Kootenay (Trail, Castlegar, Rossland, Nelson), British Columbia

Immigrating to Claresholm via the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot

All candidates interested in applying for a recommendation through the RNIP must first meet the federal government’s eligibility requirements. They need at least one year of eligible work experience, meet language requirements, education requirements, as well as prove that they have enough funds to support themselves among other requirements.

After determining that they meet federal criteria, candidates may then create a profile on the Claresholm RINP Portal. Candidates may then apply for the jobs listed in the portal and are allowed to have up to three active applications at a time, but may withdraw at any time if a better opportunity arises. It is strongly recommended that candidates only apply for positions that align with their education and experience.

Once candidates receive a job offer, the Town of Claresholm may recommend that they become permanent residents. They will still need to apply for a work permit while their application is being processed.

Find out if you are eligible for any Canadian immigration programs