Sault Ste. Marie, a Northern Ontario community, has officially published its list of designated employers under the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) — a key step for foreign workers aiming to gain Canadian permanent residency through employment.

What Is the RCIP?

The RCIP is a federal initiative designed to support immigration to smaller communities by linking foreign skilled workers with employers in specific sectors. In Sault Ste. Marie, candidates with an eligible job offer from a designated employer and who meet the program’s criteria may apply for permanent residence in Canada.

Current List of Designated Employers in Sault Ste. Marie

The following employers are currently recognized under the RCIP program (subject to change):

• Algoma Tubes Inc (Tenaris Canada)

• Child Care Algoma

• China Steel Inc.

• Chuck’s Roadhouse Bar and Grill

• Extendicare Mapleview

• F.J. Davey Home

• Giovanni’s Restaurant

• JD Aero Technical Inc.

• Meadow Park Montessori School

• Montanas

• Northern Power Train

• OTR Engineered Solution

• Para Med

• Sault Area Hospital

• Sault Ste. Marie YMCA

• Viacore

Becoming a Designated Employer

Local businesses that operate within priority sectors and wish to hire foreign workers may apply for designation through the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation.

RCIP Allocation and Opportunity

Sault Ste. Marie has been granted 300 immigration spots under the RCIP for the year 2025. This presents a substantial opportunity for foreign nationals seeking a pathway to Canadian permanent residence via employment in the region.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible under Sault Ste. Marie’s RCIP stream, applicants must:

• Hold a valid job offer from a designated employer in a priority sector

• Be working in a priority occupation

• Fulfill minimum requirements for:

  • Work experience

  • Education

  • Language proficiency

  • Proof of settlement funds

• Receive a community recommendation

Priority Sectors in Sault Ste. Marie

Employers and job roles in the following sectors are prioritized:

• Education, Law, Social, and Government Services

• Healthcare

• Manufacturing and Utilities

• Sales and Service

• Skilled Trades and Transportation

Once all local and federal requirements are met, eligible applicants can apply directly to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for permanent residency.

Other Participating Communities

Besides Sault Ste. Marie, other Ontario communities such as Timmins and Thunder Bay are also participating in the RCIP and have published their lists of designated employers.