Pictou County, Nova Scotia-As announced in Budget 2026, Canada is refocusing immigration to where it can best support the economy, including in smaller, rural and remote communities facing persistent labour shortages.
Today, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced that the Government of Canada has made the Rural Community Immigration Pilot a permanent program.
This employer- and community-led program will build on the success of the previous and current pilots and help meet the distinct workforce needs of rural Canada.
The program intends to continue with the 14 communities currently taking part in the pilot, with an expansion to additional communities planned in the future. To support effective retention, the program relies on strong, locally driven partnerships between employers and community partners to connect newcomers and their families with the support they need to succeed in the long-term and make these communities their home.
Through the 2027-2029 Immigration Levels Plan, the Government of Canada is restoring stability and sustainability to Canada's immigration system, including by retaining skilled workers who are already living and contributing in communities across the country. By continuing to bring down the temporary resident population while attracting top talent, Canada will reduce pressures on communities, fill labour gaps in key sectors and propel our long-term prosperity.
