"Rural" Life

Rural Northern Immigration Pilot - rugged by not exactly “rural”.

The Good

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario is one of the designated communities for the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP) and it is home to the first two successful applicants of the program in all of Canada.


“The Soo” is also home to our immigration and intercultural training firm (iCA) so we’re proud to share the first success stories and to shamelessly promote the community.

Why You Should Move to Sault Ste. Marie - link to Macleans article.

Two post-secondary schools, notably low housing prices, growing arts and culture scene, world-class access to nature, safety – yes, in some neighbourhoods kids play hockey on the residential streets – and demographic trends that tell a story of job opportunity. For example, between 2001 and 2016, the number of potential workers decreased by 23 percent, while the number of potential retirees increased by 40 percent. There is plenty of labour market data that one can geek out on.


To attract new families and support their connection to the community, the municipality offers a free adventure pack – free skiing, snowmobiling, and cycling/hiking equipment. 


The welcome wagon is waiting and the opportunities are abounding.

However, there is an element of ‘fit’ that must be addressed. Fit for lifestyle and fit for immigration.

The Bad

Time to get personal. There is something I don’t like about the term “rural” as a descriptor of my precious home town. Let’s be honest, hearing the word “rural” brings to mind unpaved roads, limited housing, and substandard amenities. 


With the exception of one person I can think of, 100% of the first-timers that I have welcomed to the community were surprised at how developed the region is. 


Yes, we have an airport, bus service, and ride share programs. 


Yes, we have several shopping malls and all the big box brands.


Yes, we have fine dining and a silly number of pizza joints.


Yes, we have robust education options at all levels.


Yes, we have public and private businesses offering career-catapulting opportunities.


And, yes we have traffic that will make you scream and be late for dance class.



View from rear passenger seat of an Uber driver

I beg you to help me to demythify the Little House on the Prairie image of the host communities of the RNIP program. Forces unite!


Nonetheless, it must be said that life in a smaller community has a uniquely quiet vibe to it. We are, indeed, more likely to gather at a potluck dinner at the cottage than at a multiplex centre where all of one’s consumer desires can be satisfied. This is true.

The Ugly

group of friends around a camp fire

What I want to share here isn’t “ugly” per se; it’s about matter of fact limitations in fairness. 


For immigration purposes, take note that there are two levels of eligibility that must both be met in order to qualify for an RNIP recommendation- federal and community criteria. This means a little more work when it comes to researching the option and applying.


Next, the program is designed for newcomers who are seriously committed to living in the identified communities for the long term. It is not an appropriate path for someone who wants to obtain PR then out migrate to a larger centre to settle. For this reason, the local eligibility criteria require a high degree of connection and commitment to the community.

Additionally, the program seeks to attract people with specific skills and occupations, and requires a full-time job offer from a valid SSM employer. For those who qualify, these criteria hint at job security in the identified fields. On the other hand, this leaves some talented individuals out of the running.


The good, the bad and the ugly – there we have it. 

 

Rural Northern Immigration Pilot communities are not so “rural” after all, right?


This immigration option is best suited for those who understand and seek a small town lifestyle and whose skills also are a clear match to the community’s needs.


The End.


iCA immigration Consultant Sault Ste Marie

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