Steinbach RCIP: Canadian Immigration Pathway Now Open
Steinbach Releases Designated Employers List for Rural Community Immigration Pilot
- Steinbach, Manitoba, has unveiled its list of designated employers under the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP).
- The program supports skilled foreign workers in securing a pathway to permanent residence in rural communities.
- Applicants must receive a job offer from a designated employer and meet specific eligibility criteria.
- Monthly intake periods allow up to five applications to be recommended for permanent residence.
- Successful candidates may also qualify for a two-year work permit while PR applications are being processed.
- Steinbach joins other Canadian communities like Timmins and Thunder Bay in offering this rural immigration stream.
If you’re dreaming of settling down in a welcoming Manitoba community and want to build a life in Canada, Steinbach might be a great place to start. This growing city has just revealed the list of employers participating in the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)—a pathway to permanent residence designed specifically for skilled workers interested in living and working in smaller Canadian centres.
Let’s explore what this means for potential newcomers and how you can take advantage of this rural immigration opportunity.
What Is the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)?
The RCIP is a unique immigration program that aims to breathe new life into Canada’s rural and smaller communities. By connecting foreign talent with local employers, the program helps address labour shortages and supports long-term community growth. It’s an employer-led initiative, which means candidates must first secure a job offer from a recognized employer within a participating community.
Once the job offer is in hand, the employer applies through the local economic development office for a recommendation certificate. If approved, the foreign worker can then apply for permanent residence through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It’s a meaningful way to immigrate to Canada while contributing to a thriving rural town.
About Steinbach and Its Region
Located in southeastern Manitoba, Steinbach is the province’s third-largest city and a vibrant hub for economic and cultural activity. The designated RCIP region for Steinbach includes nearby rural municipalities such as Ste. Anne, Piney, and La Broquerie, along with the urban areas of Landmark and Vita. It’s a beautiful part of the country that offers both small-town charm and growing job opportunities.
Who Are the Designated Employers in Steinbach?
To participate in Steinbach’s RCIP stream, job seekers must receive an offer from one of the following approved employers:
- Co-Care Health Group Inc. – Offering healthcare and support services
- C.P. Loewen Enterprises Ltd (Loewen Windows & Doors) – A leader in premium window and door manufacturing
- Imperial Metal Industries – Specializing in metal fabrication and industrial solutions
- Kinder Korner Early Learning Centre Inc. – A childcare and early education centre
- Nickel Communications (Rogers) – Telecommunications services under the Rogers banner
- Westland Insurance – Providing insurance solutions across various sectors
These employers span a range of industries including healthcare, manufacturing, childcare, communications, and financial services—giving applicants a variety of potential job paths.
Eligibility Requirements for the Steinbach RCIP
In addition to having a job offer from one of the designated employers, candidates must meet several other requirements to qualify for the program:
- Be employed in one of Steinbach’s priority sectors or occupations
- Have relevant work experience in the same field
- Meet minimum language requirements in either English or French
- Possess appropriate educational credentials
- Demonstrate sufficient settlement funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members
These standards ensure that newcomers are well-prepared to thrive in Steinbach and contribute meaningfully to the local economy and community.
How the Application Process Works
Once a foreign national has secured a job offer and meets all eligibility criteria, the employer must submit an application to Steinbach Economic Development (SED) for a recommendation certificate. Here’s how the process breaks down:
- Monthly intake period: From the 1st business day of the month at 9:00 a.m. until the 15th at 5:00 p.m., or until seven applications are received (whichever comes first)
- Processing limit: Only five candidates will be selected and processed each month
- Next intake window: Opens June 2 to 15
Once a candidate receives a recommendation certificate, they can apply to IRCC for permanent residence. And here’s a big plus—while waiting for your PR application to be finalized, you can apply for a two-year work permit, allowing you to start your new job and settle into your new community right away.
Other Communities Participating in RCIP
Steinbach is one of 14 Canadian communities participating in RCIP. Others that have already released their list of designated employers include:
Each community has its own designated employers and priority occupations, so it’s worth exploring multiple options if you’re considering rural immigration to Canada.
Why This Matters for Skilled Workers
The RCIP can be a game-changer for skilled workers who may not meet the cut-off scores for other immigration programs like Express Entry. It’s also ideal for those looking to live in more affordable, family-friendly communities where job opportunities are plentiful and the quality of life is high.
For Steinbach, the program offers a way to attract skilled talent to fill local labour gaps and support long-term economic growth. It’s truly a win-win for both newcomers and the community.
Final Thoughts
Steinbach’s participation in the RCIP opens up exciting possibilities for skilled foreign workers who are ready to call rural Manitoba home. If you’re interested in starting your Canadian journey through one of these designated employers, now’s the time to explore your options and prepare your application.
Want to see if you’re eligible for the RCIP? Click here to assess your eligibility and take the first step toward building your future in Canada.
And don’t forget to check out our other articles on Canadian immigration programs, job opportunities in Manitoba, and tips for settling into rural communities.
