Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, a vibrant community along the St. Marys River, has released its complete list of 25 priority occupations under the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP). The RCIP offers skilled foreign workers a direct pathway to permanent residency (PR) in Canada.
The RCIP, a federal initiative aimed at supporting smaller communities by addressing critical labour shortages, is managed locally by the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation. The program connects designated employers with international talent, strengthening key sectors and ensuring long-term economic growth.
Key Sectors and Occupations
The 25 in-demand occupations span five essential sectors:
- Healthcare (e.g., Registered Nurses, Personal Support Workers, Pharmacy Technicians)
- Education and Social Services (e.g., Early Childhood Educators, Social Workers, Therapists)
- Sales and Services (e.g., Food Service Supervisors, Security Guard Supervisors)
- Trades and Transportation (e.g., Electricians, Mechanical Engineers, Transit Operators)
- Manufacturing and Utilities (e.g., Production Workers)
- Healthcare (e.g., Registered Nurses, Personal Support Workers, Pharmacy Technicians)
Each position has been strategically selected based on current labour demands in the region. Certain roles, particularly in hospitality and security, include annual intake caps to maintain balanced hiring. For example, Food Service Supervisor roles are capped at 25 annually, with a maximum of two hires per employer.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, candidates must secure a full-time, permanent job offer from a designated employer in Sault Ste. Marie meets the following criteria:
- Work Experience: Minimum one year of relevant experience within the last three years, aligned with the National Occupational Classification (NOC) of the job offer.
- Language Proficiency: CLB 4–6 depending on the role, proven through approved language tests like IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF Canada.
- Education: A Canadian high school diploma or an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) equivalent.
- Community Recommendation: Demonstrated intent to live in Sault Ste. Marie and her connection to the community.
- Designated Employers: Only employers listed by the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation may provide valid job offers.
- Work Experience: Minimum one year of relevant experience within the last three years, aligned with the National Occupational Classification (NOC) of the job offer.

Special Provisions for International Students and Healthcare Workers
International graduates from local institutions may be exempt from the work experience requirement if they meet specific criteria related to program length and community presence. Registered Nurses may also transition into Personal Support Worker roles under certain NOC codes, allowing flexibility in meeting job requirements.
Why Sault Ste. Marie?
Known for its quality of life, affordability, and welcoming atmosphere, Sault Ste. Marie is positioning itself as an attractive destination for newcomers seeking career stability and community integration. With robust support from local institutions and government bodies, the city aims to foster long-term settlement and economic prosperity through this immigration pathway.
Next Steps for Applicants
The application process includes:
- Securing a job offer from a designated employer.
- Obtaining a community recommendation from the city.
- Submitting a permanent residency application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Securing a job offer from a designated employer.
The official Sault Ste. The Marie Economic Development Corporation website provides full eligibility details, a list of designated employers, and application guidelines.