Brandon, Manitoba, has once again positioned itself at the forefront of economic development and immigration innovation.
Following the success of the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP), Economic Development Brandon (EDB) has been selected to participate in the new federal Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) program — a major opportunity for employers and skilled foreign workers alike.
What is RCIP?
Launched by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) is a federal economic immigration initiative designed to help rural communities attract and retain skilled talent.
Through RCIP, eligible Brandon employers can:
- Hire skilled foreign workers from outside Canada for approved roles
- Support existing temporary foreign workers in obtaining permanent residency
The program gives foreign workers and their families a pathway to live and work in Brandon permanently, offering stability and long-term opportunity in one of Manitoba’s fastest-growing cities.
Why Choose Brandon?
Brandon is Manitoba’s second-largest city, with a population of over 51,000 and a strong economic growth rate of 1.5 percent. It serves as a dynamic urban alternative to Winnipeg — offering many of the same advantages, but with fewer barriers to entry for businesses and residents alike.
Here’s what makes Brandon a smart choice for workers and employers:
- Strong, diversified economy
- Low unemployment rates
- Well-educated workforce
- Cost-effective operations for businesses
- Strategic location close to the U.S. border and transport networks
2025 RCIP: Brandon’s Priority Sectors and Occupations
Brandon will be accepting applications for the RCIP only in specific sectors and approved occupations under Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC) system.
A. Health Sector (15 percent of 2025 allocation reserved)
Nurse Aides, Orderlies, Patient Service Associates (NOC 33102) – CLB 5
Registered Nurses and Psychiatric Nurses (NOC 31301) – CLB 6
Licensed Practical Nurses (NOC 32101) – CLB 5
General Practitioners (NOC 31102), Specialists (NOC 31100, 31101), Dentists (NOC 31110) – CLB 6
B. Trade and Transport
Construction Trades Helpers (NOC 75110) – CLB 4
Welders, Plumbers, Carpenters, HVAC and Auto Mechanics, Painters, and related roles – CLB 5
C. Manufacturing and Utilities
Industrial Butchers and Poultry Preparers (NOC 94141) – CLB 4
D. Natural and Applied Science
Civil, Mechanical, Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers and Technicians – CLB 5 to 6
User Support Technicians (NOC 22221) – CLB 5
E. Education, Law, Social and Government Services
Early Childhood Educators and Assistants (NOC 42202) – CLB 5
How to Apply?
The Brandon Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) is an employer-driven program, meaning that candidates must first secure employment with one of the designated employers under the program. Once a candidate has secured a job offer, they can then apply for permanent residency.
To qualify for the Brandon RCIP Program, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Receive a job offer from a designated employer in Brandon, Manitoba.
- Have at least one year of continuous, full-time work experience within the past three years.
- Meet Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) requirements based on the job’s NOC classification.
- Hold a Canadian high school diploma or an equivalent foreign credential (ECA required).
- Demonstrate sufficient settlement funds (if applicable).
For Employers
Employers must first apply for designation and meet the eligibility criteria set by Economic Development Brandon. After receiving designation, they can submit community recommendation applications on behalf of foreign skilled workers.
Ready to Explore These Opportunities?
If you’re considering applying through the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) or the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP), our experienced immigration consultants at Northern Connections Canada Immigration are here to guide you.
Here’s how we can help:
Employers
Looking to recruit skilled workers? We offer recruitment services to help you find skilled labour to meet your staffing needs.If not yet designated, we can assist with the application for designation. Contact us at info@nccanadaimmigration.com.
Candidates
Already have a job offer from a Brandon employer? We can assist with submitting a strong and compelling application ensuring all program requirements are met and your application is poised for success.
Contact us today and take the next step toward permanent residency in Canada.
