Update on the 2026 Candidate Intake

We are pleased to share an update regarding the 2026 Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) candidate intake for the Peace Liard region.

2026 Allocations

For 2026, Peace Liard has received 60 recommendation allocations. This allocation number was determined at the federal level by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

If other participating communities do not fully use their allocations, additional recommendations may be received in the Fall. However, redistribution is not guaranteed.

Updated Priority Sectors and Occupations

We have updated the 2026 Priority Sectors and NOC codes on our website.

The priority list is based on:

• Employer Labour Needs Survey data

• BC Labour Market Outlook data

• Historical application trends

• Consultations with municipal and regional partners

  
  

As required under the program:

• A minimum of 80% of recommendations will be issued to the approved list of 25 priority occupations.

• Up to 20% of allocations may be issued to discretionary occupations within the approved priority sectors (outside the list of 25 NOCs).

  
  

New Scoring and Ranking Model

Beginning in 2026, Peace Liard will use a scoring and pooled ranking model to assess applications.

This approach ensures fairness, consistency, and transparency in what continues to be a highly competitive program with limited allocations.

All eligible applications will be scored and ranked, and recommendations will be issued to the highest-ranking candidates throughout the year while maintaining sector balance.

IRCC-Imposed Occupation Caps

IRCC has imposed caps on select occupations with historically high turnover rates. These occupations are limited to:

• 5% per NOC

• 20% combined total

The capped occupations are:

• Cashiers

• Food Service Supervisors

• Retail Sales Supervisors

• Food Service Managers

  
  

These limits are set federally and will be strictly monitored.

Candidate Intake Timeline

The candidate intake is planned for April 1, 2026.

Additional intake windows may follow if needed. These will be announced in advance of the applicable opening date.

We will also be hosting a series information sessions in March to walk through the candidate intake process. Stay tuned for the dates and registration links.