Thunder Bay Announces Eligible Occupations for New PR Pathway

Thunder Bay has announced eligible occupations under its new permanent residence (PR) pathway through the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP).

Under the RCIP, foreign nationals must secure a job offer from a designated employer in Thunder Bay to qualify for PR. The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) has identified five sectors for recruitment: Business and Finance Administration, Healthcare, Education and Community Services, Sales and Service, and Trades and Transport.

Targeted occupations include administrative assistants, financial advisors, registered nurses, early childhood educators, cooks, and heavy equipment operators, among others.

Only employers designated by the CEDC will be authorized to issue qualifying job offers. Currently, designated employers have not been announced, with further details expected in 2025.

To qualify, candidates must have one year of related work experience, meet language requirements, possess a Canadian or equivalent educational credential, and provide proof of settlement funds. Applications must be employer-led, with the employer submitting the candidate’s profile to the CEDC for community recommendation before the federal PR application.

Special exemptions exist for healthcare workers and graduates from local institutions.