Program delivery update: RCIP and FCIP R205(a) – Work permits [C15], and Spouses [C17] – Public policies, special initiatives and pilot projects – IMP

February 24, 2026

A new 5-year pilot program has been put in place through the Ministerial Instructions with respect to the Rural Community Immigration Pilot and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot. These 2 regional pilots will help smaller rural and northern communities to attract, integrate and retain skilled foreign workers to meet their economic development and labour market needs.

As part of these 2 new regional permanent resident pilots, eligible candidates can apply for an employer-specific work permit under paragraph 205(a) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) [administrative code C15], valid for up to 2 years.

Spouses and common-law partners of principal applicants may be eligible to obtain an open work permit under paragraph R205(a) [administrative code C17], also valid for up to 2 years. Dependent children are also eligible for an open work permit under subparagraph R205(c)(ii) [administrative code C49].

New instructions

• Rural Community Immigration Pilot – Work permits – R205(a) [administrative code C15]
• Francophone Community Immigration Pilot – Work permits – R205(a) [administrative code C15]
• Rural Community Immigration Pilot and Francophone Community Immigration Pilot – Spousal work permits – R205(a) [administrative code C17]