Timmins, North Bay expected to join permanent rural immigration program

Canada is making its rural immigration pilot permanent, with Timmins and North Bay expected to participate in a program offering skilled workers and international graduates in priority sectors a pathway to permanent residence through designated local employers. Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab announced the transition on Nov. 9, 2026, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Timmins and North Bay are among the 14 communities that took part in the Rural Community Immigration Pilot, which launched in January 2025. All 14 pilot communities are expected to participate in the permanent program, according to IRCC.

Rural and remote communities face population decline, an aging workforce and persistent labour shortages, according to IRCC.

Under the Rural Community Immigration Program, participating communities will identify priority sectors and occupations based on local labour needs and economic development plans. Only employers designated by those communities and operating in priority sectors will be able to access the program, IRCC said.

The permanent program will retain the pilot’s partnership between IRCC and local economic development organizations. Communities will vet employers based on their demonstrated labour needs, good standing and ability to support newcomer employees, according to the department.

Employers will also have to complete training on program requirements and responsibilities and meet monitoring and reporting requirements, IRCC said.