Canada has just made it easier for skilled workers to move permanently to rural cities that need people like you.
Sault Ste. Marie, located in Northern Ontario, is one of 18 Canadian communities selected to participate in the new RCIP (Rural Community Immigration Pilot)—launched in January 2025. This program offers a direct pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) for foreign workers who can fill essential job vacancies and are ready to settle in the community long-term.
Let’s break down exactly how you can take advantage of this opportunity.
What Is the RCIP Program?
The RCIP (Rural Community Immigration Pilot) is a Canadian government initiative that partners with smaller communities like Sault Ste. Marie to match local employers with foreign workers in sectors facing labor shortages.
Unlike most immigration programs, RCIP allows:
-
Faster processing
-
Community-backed PR applications
-
Opportunities for semi-skilled and skilled workers
-
Real chances to settle permanently with family
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Key Job Sectors in Sault Ste. Marie (2025)
If you have experience in any of these areas, your chances are stronger:
-
🏥 Health Care
-
📚 Education, Law, and Social/Community Services
-
🛒 Sales and Customer Service
-
🛠️ Skilled Trades and Transport
-
🏭 Manufacturing and Utilities
These sectors are high priority, and job offers in these areas will be processed faster.
Eligibility Requirements (Step-by-Step)
To apply under RCIP in Sault Ste. Marie, you must meet all of the following:
1. Secure a Valid Job Offer
-
Must come from a designated employer in Sault Ste. Marie
-
Job must be full-time, non-seasonal, and meet wage requirements
-
The list of approved employers will be published here:
http://welcometossm.com/rcip
2. Work Experience
-
At least 1 year (1,560 hours) of relevant work experience in the past 3 years
-
Experience must match the NOC code of the job you’re applying for
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
3. Language Proficiency
-
Minimum CLB 4 to 6, depending on the skill level of the job
(E.g., CLB 4 for entry-level jobs, CLB 5–6 for skilled jobs)
4. Education
-
Canadian high school diploma or
-
Foreign education credential with ECA (Educational Credential Assessment)
5. Settlement Funds
-
You must prove you have enough money to settle in Canada
(Unless you’re already working legally in Canada)
6. Intent to Settle in Sault Ste. Marie
-
You must show clear plans to live in the city long-term
(e.g., housing plans, family ties, school plans for children, etc.)
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Documents You’ll Need
Start preparing these NOW so you can apply quickly when jobs open:
-
Updated Canadian-format resume
-
ECA report for your education
-
IELTS or CELPIP test result
-
Reference letters proving work experience
-
Proof of settlement funds (bank statements, savings, etc.)
-
Police clearance certificate
-
Passport bio page
-
Marriage or birth certificates (if applying with family)
Tips for Getting a Job Offer
✔️ Tailor your resume and cover letter to each job
✔️ Apply to multiple designated employers
✔️ Use Canadian job search platforms (Job Bank, Indeed, LinkedIn)
✔️ Network through Facebook groups like “Immigrate to Sault Ste. Marie” or local job boards
✔️ Emphasize your commitment to live in the community, not just work
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
After You Get the Job Offer – What Next?
Once a designated employer offers you a job and you’re eligible:
1. Apply for a Community Recommendation
-
The Sault Ste. Marie RCIP committee will assess:
-
Your eligibility
-
Community fit
-
Settlement intention
-
2. Submit PR Application to IRCC
-
Once approved by the city, you submit your PR application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
3. Apply for a Work Permit (Optional but Helpful)
-
While waiting for your PR, you may be eligible to apply for an LMIA-exempt work permit using your community recommendation
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Timeline – What to Expect
| Step | Time Estimate |
|---|---|
| Find a job + prepare docs | 1–3 months |
| Community recommendation | 1–2 months |
| PR processing (IRCC) | 6–12 months |
| Total | ~12 months to become a PR |
Can My Family Join Me?
Yes! You can include your spouse and children in your PR application.
Your spouse can also get an open work permit once you arrive, and your children can attend public schools in Sault Ste. Marie.
Why Choose Sault Ste. Marie?
-
Affordable cost of living
-
Friendly, multicultural community
-
Clean air, safe streets, and nature all around
-
Great education and healthcare
-
You’re not just another number—you’re part of a growing local economy
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Final Checklist – Are You Ready?
✔ Do you have relevant work experience?
✔ Is your English (or French) test score ready?
✔ Have you assessed your education through an ECA?
✔ Are you preparing your resume in Canadian style?
✔ Are you monitoring the employer list at: welcometossm.com/rcip?
If yes—you’re already ahead of the game.
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Want to Get Notified When Jobs Open?
Join community mailing lists or bookmark the official RCIP page. Also consider contacting local employment support agencies in Sault Ste. Marie that help immigrants settle and work.
