On May 21, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) opened the application process for the Rural Community Immigration Pilot and Francophone Community Immigration Pilot. The initiative encourages economic development organizations to apply, representing their communities and demonstrating how immigration can boost their local economies. Up to 15 communities will be selected based on economic need, services for newcomers, and collaboration capabilities. The pilots aim to process up to 5,500 permanent resident applications annually, addressing economic and demographic challenges in rural and Francophone minority communities.
