Greater Sudbury has announced its priority sectors and occupations for two groundbreaking immigration pilot programs – the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) and Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP). These initiatives offer new permanent residence pathways for skilled foreign workers in Northeastern Ontario.
Key Program Details
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525 nomination slots allocated for RCIP in 2025
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45 nomination slots for FCIP in 2025
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First application intake: June 23-27, 2025
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Employer deadline: June 12 for designation applications
Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP)
Priority Sectors
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Natural and applied sciences
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Health
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Education, social, and government services
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Trades and transport
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Natural resources and agriculture
In-Demand Occupations (Selected Highlights)
| Occupation | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurses | 31301 |
| Heavy Equipment Operators | 73400 |
| Welders | 72106 |
| Early Childhood Educators | 42202 |
| Mining Engineers | 21330 |
“These sectors reflect Sudbury’s growing needs in healthcare, skilled trades, and resource industries,” says a city economic development officer.
Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP)
Priority Sectors
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Business and finance
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Health
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Education and community services
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Arts and culture
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Trades and transport
Key Francophone Occupations
| Occupation | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| French-Language Teachers | 41220/41221 |
| Licensed Practical Nurses | 32101 |
| Social Workers | 42201 |
| Financial Advisors | 11102 |
| Welders | 72106 |
Eligibility Requirements
For Applicants:
✔ Valid job offer from designated employer
✔ Intermediate French (FCIP) or CLB 4-5 (RCIP)
✔ Relevant work experience
✔ Settlement funds
For Employers:
✔ Business operational in Sudbury area
✔ Good standing with regulatory bodies
✔ Demonstrated need for foreign talent
Application Process Timeline
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By June 12: Employers submit designation applications
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June 23-27: Selected employers nominate candidates
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Optional: Apply for temporary work permit during processing
Why This Matters for Immigrants
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Lower CRS requirements than Express Entry
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Targeted approach to community needs
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Pathway to PR for intermediate-skilled workers
“These pilots create exciting opportunities for workers in sectors often overlooked in federal programs,” notes Immigration Expert Evgeny Blumin.
Next Steps
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Job seekers: Connect with designated Sudbury employers
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Employers: Complete designation applications by June 12
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All parties: Prepare documents for June intake
For complete occupation lists and application details, visit [Sudbury’s Economic Development Office website].
