The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) offshoot in the West Kootenay region (including Trail, Castlegar, Rossland, Nelson) in the province of British Columbia is a community-centered program offering those interested in immigrating to Canada the opportunity to move to, live, and work in the region.
The West Kootenay region in British Columbia boasts unparalleled natural scenery and has a population of around 30,000 residents. The West Kootenay RNIP is an excellent opportunity for those interested in living and working in a close-knit community.
What qualifies as a part of the West Kootenay Region?
According to the RNIP communities map, the region has the following borders, as shown on the map in yellow:
How do I ensure that I am eligible for the pilot?
First, you must make sure that you meet the federal requirements for the RNIP. These requirements include meeting outlined eligibility parameters set out by IRCC on areas such as:
- Education
- Work Experience
- Language
- Job offer
What is the community criteria for the West Kootenay RNIP?
The candidate must have a start date on a job offer two months from the date of their RNIP application submission.
The candidates are ranked on a points system. Points are assigned based on the following factors:
- Family or friend connections to the West Kootenay region
- Close family – 8 points
- Medium family connection/friend – 2 points
- Living in/previous travel to the region
- 12 -24 months – 5 points
- 36 months or more – 10 points
- Working in a priority occupation – up to 15 points
- Wage and work experience – up to 15 points
- Age – up to 6 points
- English and French proficiency – 4 points
- Details about candidate’s spouse – 4 points
For more details, access the West Kootenay selection criteria form here. You must earn 26 points or more to proceed with your application.