Designated Employers Revealed in Peace Liard, North Okanagan–Shuswap, and Pictou County for Rural PR

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Designated Employers Revealed in Peace Liard, North Okanagan–Shuswap, and Pictou County for Rural PR

Three Canadian regions — Peace Liard and North Okanagan-Shuswap in British Columbia, and Pictou County in Nova Scotia — have officially released their lists of designated employers under the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP).

This update provides more opportunities for skilled foreign workers to secure job offers and apply for permanent residence (PR) through the rural pathway.

What is the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)?

The RCIP is an employer-driven immigration program designed to attract and retain skilled foreign workers in smaller Canadian communities. To qualify, candidates must secure a job offer from a designated employer in a participating region and meet specific eligibility criteria, including:

  • Work experience: At least one year (1,560 hours) of relevant employment in the past three years (some exemptions apply for international graduates).
  • Language proficiency: Proof of English or French proficiency, usually CLB 4–6, depending on the job category.
  • Education: A Canadian secondary school credential or an equivalent foreign qualification.
  • Settlement funds: Proof of sufficient funds to support themselves and their family.

Once an eligible candidate secures a job offer, the employer must have it endorsed by the community’s local economic development organization. If approved, the candidate may apply directly to the federal government for permanent residency.

Peace Liard’s Designated Employers

Peace Liard, located in northeastern British Columbia, has published an extensive list of approved employers across multiple sectors, including:

  • Healthcare & social services – Northern Health Authority, Northern Lights College, Campus Kids Daycare Society.
  • Hospitality & food services – Chubby FSJ Ltd., Dawson Creek Golf & Country Club, Sushi Heaven Japanese Restaurant Ltd.
  • Construction & trades – Surerus Construction and Development Ltd., Troyer Ventures Ltd., Pavlis Trucking Ltd.
  • Retail & services – City Furniture Ltd., Sobeys Capital Inc., Williston Drugs Limited.

North Okanagan-Shuswap’s Designated Employers

North Okanagan-Shuswap, in BC’s interior, has also shared its RCIP employer list, featuring opportunities in:

  • Healthcare & community services – Interior Health Authority, Kindale Developmental Association, Vernon & District Immigrant and Services Society.
  • Childcare & education – Harwood Montessori School, Kids Kingdom Childcare, North Okanagan Child Care Society.
  • Manufacturing & trades – Tolko Industries Ltd., KingFisher Boats Inc., Interfor Corporation.
  • Hospitality & retail – Best Western Premier Vernon, Predator Ridge Limited Partnership, Sobeys Capital Inc.

Pictou County’s Designated Employers

In Nova Scotia, Pictou County has published its RCIP employer list, which includes businesses in:

  • Hospitality & food services – Tim Hortons (Kyle Shaw Enterprises Ltd.), Sam’s Pizza – Stellarton, Subway (Highland Subshop Ltd.).
  • Construction & trades – Dustin’s Concrete, Scotsburn Lumber Ltd., Twin Rivers Home Builders.
  • Retail & services – Sobeys Capital Inc., Needs Convenience, Bowen’s Autobody Repair & Sales Inc.

Why Designated Employers Matter

The RCIP is employer-driven, which means a job offer from a designated employer is the first step toward applying for permanent residency. For skilled workers abroad, this is a valuable pathway to move to Canada and settle in communities that are actively seeking labor.

As of today, 14 communities across Canada participate in the RCIP, with nearly all having launched their local programs. The program continues to see high demand since its launch, offering a vital option for both employers facing labor shortages and foreign workers seeking PR opportunities.

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