Brandon RCIP Update: New Designated Employers Revealed
Brandon, Manitoba Reveals Designated Employers for the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)
Brandon, the second-largest city in Manitoba, has just released its updated list of designated employers participating in the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP). This exciting development opens more doors for skilled foreign workers who are looking to settle in smaller Canadian communities and gain permanent residency through local job opportunities.
Key Highlights
- Brandon’s RCIP covers a 25km radius, including surrounding rural areas like Brandon Hills, Chater, Cornwalis, and Riverdale.
- The program is employer-driven and offers a pathway to permanent residency for eligible candidates.
- Designated employers range across key sectors such as healthcare, construction, manufacturing, and education.
- Applicants must meet specific work experience, education, language, and financial requirements.
- Successful candidates may qualify for an LMIA-exempt work permit while their PR application is in process.
What is the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)?
The RCIP is a community-led immigration program aimed at helping smaller cities and rural areas fill labour gaps by attracting skilled workers from abroad. In Brandon’s case, this initiative supports both the city and its surrounding region within a 25km radius, including nearby locales like Brandon Hills and Riverdale. It’s a win-win: employers find qualified talent, and newcomers get a more direct path to Canadian permanent residence.
This pilot is particularly unique because it’s employer-focused. That means you need a job offer from a designated employer in the community to be eligible. Once you’ve secured that, you can be recommended for permanent residence and even apply for a temporary work permit while your PR is being processed.
Designated Employers in Brandon’s RCIP Program
Brandon’s list of approved employers includes a diverse group of organizations across multiple industries. Here’s the most recent list of employers authorized to hire through the RCIP:
- Brandon Clinic – Hiring family and specialist physicians. Applicants must be licensed in Canada or on a pathway to licensure.
- Gateway Mechanical Services Inc.
- Glendale Industries Limited
- Keller Developments
- Koch Fertilizer Canada ULC
- Kumon Brandon
- Maple Leaf Foods
- Modular Industrial Structures Brandon (MISB)
- Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) – Only the Brandon location is approved. You must already be working for PMH or be licensed to practice in Canada.
- Saputo Dairy Products Canada G.P.
- The Wellness Clinic – Also looking for licensed or soon-to-be-licensed healthcare professionals.
- Walsh Construction
Note: The list of designated employers is expected to evolve over time as more businesses join the program or update their hiring needs.
Who Can Apply for Brandon’s RCIP?
It’s not just about having a job offer—you’ll also need to make sure the position aligns with Brandon’s priority occupations for the RCIP. These are roles identified as high-need in the local economy, ensuring that the program targets genuine labour shortages.
In addition to a qualifying job offer, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Work Experience: Relevant experience in the job field, or qualify under the international graduate exemption.
- Language Skills: Meet the minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) depending on the job level.
- Education: Demonstrate post-secondary education or equivalent credentials assessed by a recognized Canadian institution.
- Settlement Funds: Show you have enough money to support yourself (and any dependents) while settling in Canada.
If you tick all the boxes, the community may issue you a recommendation letter. This is your golden ticket to submit a PR application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Plus, you can apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-exempt work permit to begin working while your application is processed.
Why Consider Brandon, Manitoba?
Brandon offers a wonderful blend of small-town charm and big-city amenities. Known for its affordable cost of living, welcoming community, and strong economy, it’s a great place to put down roots. Whether you’re in healthcare, trades, education, or food processing, there’s a wide range of opportunities here.
Plus, being part of the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) network, Brandon aligns well with Manitoba’s broader immigration goals—making your path to permanent residency smoother and more structured.
How to Get Started
If you’re interested in applying through the Brandon RCIP, start by:
- Reviewing the list of designated employers and job openings.
- Checking if your occupation is listed as a priority sector.
- Ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria, including language and education requirements.
- Applying for a job with an approved employer and securing a written job offer.
- Submitting your application for community recommendation and, if successful, applying for PR and a possible work permit.
It might sound like a lot, but each step brings you closer to starting a new life in one of Canada’s most inviting regions.
Final Thoughts
Brandon’s participation in the RCIP is a fantastic opportunity for skilled foreign workers who want to build a future in Canada. With a clear list of designated employers and a supportive community ready to welcome new residents, it’s a program worth considering if you’re looking for a stable and meaningful immigration pathway.
Ready to take the next step? Assess your eligibility for the Brandon RCIP and see if this rural pathway is the right fit for you and your family.
For more insights on Manitoba immigration options, check out our guide on the Manitoba PNP.
Looking for more support or have questions about applying? Contact our team today — we’re always happy to help!
