Canada Raises Settlement Fund Requirements for Rural & Francophone PR Pathways by Over 30%
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a significant increase in the minimum settlement funds required for applicants under the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP)—two employer-driven pathways to Canadian permanent residence designed to attract newcomers to rural and francophone communities outside Quebec.
The change, effective July 29, 2025, requires foreign nationals to show proof of at least $2,544 more than before to qualify for these programs.
For a single applicant, the minimum funds have risen from $7,963 to $10,507—a 31.94% increase. Requirements also increased proportionately for larger family sizes.
New Settlement Fund Requirements (Effective July 29, 2025)
| Family Members | New Minimum Funds | Previous Minimum Funds |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $10,507 | $7,963 |
| 2 | $13,080 | $9,692 |
| 3 | $16,080 | $12,069 |
| 4 | $19,524 | $15,056 |
| 5 | $22,143 | $17,145 |
| 6 | $24,975 | $19,015 |
| 7 | $27,806 | $20,884 |
| Each additional member | $2,831 | $1,869 |
How Family Size is Calculated
Your family size includes:
- Yourself
- Your spouse or common-law partner
- Dependent children (yours, your partner’s)
Note: Family members must be counted even if they are Canadian citizens or PR holders and/or not accompanying you to Canada.
Acceptable Proof of Funds
Applicants can demonstrate settlement funds through:
- Bank account statements
- Bank drafts
- Cheques
- Money orders
The funds must be available both at the time of application and when a permanent resident visa is issued.
About RCIP and FCIP
Both programs launched in early 2025 to help address labour shortages in rural and francophone communities outside Quebec.
- Applicants need a job offer from a designated employer endorsed by a local economic development organization.
- They must meet education, work experience, language, and settlement fund criteria.
- FCIP applicants must also prove French language proficiency.
- Eligible candidates can apply for permanent residence and a work permit to begin employment while awaiting PR approval.
Currently, 14 rural communities participate in RCIP and 6 francophone communities in FCIP, each targeting priority sectors and occupations aligned with their local economic needs.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
