Maple News reports that the City of Thunder Bay, located in northwestern Ontario, has officially published its updated list of designated employers participating in Canada’s Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP). Commonly referred to locally as the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP), this program enables eligible foreign nationals to apply for permanent residency if they secure a job offer from a designated employer within the community.
The RCIP is an employer-driven immigration pathway designed to address labor market needs in smaller Canadian communities by enabling local businesses to hire and retain international talent. To be eligible, candidates must receive a genuine job offer from an employer that has been formally approved by the community’s designated economic development organization. In Thunder Bay, this role is fulfilled by the Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC).
The newly announced list features a diverse range of businesses across various sectors, including retail, hospitality, transportation, construction, and healthcare. Employers include national brands such as Circle K and Shoppers Drug Mart as well as local businesses like Wasabi Restaurant, Outlaws Burgers & Fries, and Scott Family Dental. The full list of approved employers spans over 25 businesses located throughout the city.
To qualify under Thunder Bay’s RCIP stream, a job offer must not only come from one of these designated employers but also fall under one of the community’s priority occupations. The priority occupations were released earlier this spring and include sectors with ongoing labor shortages, such as skilled trades, healthcare, and transportation.
In addition to securing a qualifying job offer, candidates must meet a range of federal eligibility criteria. These include a minimum level of Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) proficiency in English or French, relevant work experience, recognized educational credentials, and proof of sufficient funds to support settlement in Canada.
Thunder Bay’s participation in the RCIP program reflects a broader initiative by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to support economic growth and population retention in smaller regions across the country. For skilled foreign workers aiming to build a life in Canada, the RCIP provides a valuable and targeted route to permanent residency outside of the more competitive urban immigration pathways.
Maple News reminds readers that each community under the RNIP sets its own criteria and list of designated employers, meaning it’s important for interested applicants to research the local requirements closely before applying. Thunder Bay continues to be a sought-after destination under this program, offering a welcoming environment and growing opportunities for newcomers seeking long-term settlement.