Greater Sudbury seeks feedback on 2026 immigration

The City of Greater Sudbury is asking local employers for their views on the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) and Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP) in 2026.

With an online survey open until 22 October 2025, hiring managers can influence which sectors and occupations are prioritised. The initiative is important in aligning immigration programmes with the city’s workforce needs while helping skilled newcomers settle effectively.

By taking part, employers can ensure that their community’s labour gaps are addressed and that qualified international candidates are attracted. The feedback gathered will guide the RCIP and FCIP programme intakes for the coming year, providing permanent residence and LMIA-exempt work permits for eligible candidates.

Why employer feedback matters for the RCIP and FCIP

The Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) and the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP) are designed to bring skilled workers to Greater Sudbury and the surrounding areas.

The RCIP targets rural communities with labour gaps, while the FCIP focuses on welcoming French-speaking candidates to Francophone-supporting communities outside Quebec.

Employer feedback helps determine which National Occupational Classification (NOC) occupations should be included in the 2026 intake rounds.

By identifying priority sectors, these programmes can match candidates with relevant job opportunities, ensuring that new arrivals contribute to local economic growth and long-term workforce stability.

How employers can take part

Employers in the Greater Sudbury region can participate in the survey by visiting investsudbury.ca/rcipKey details for participation:

• The survey remains open until 11:59pm on 22 October 2025.
• Feedback focuses on workforce needs, priority sectors and NOC classifications.
• Responses will directly influence the design of the 2026 RCIP and FCIP intake rounds.

This is a rare opportunity for local businesses to proactively shape regional immigration programmes and secure access to skilled labour aligned with their needs.

The benefits of the RCIP and FCIP programmes

Both programmes provide international candidates with pathways to permanent residence and LMIA-exempt work permits. Highlights include:

These programmes not only fill critical workforce gaps but also encourage new arrivals to make Greater Sudbury their long-term home, driving both economic and social growth.

Looking ahead to 2026

With the 2026 intake rounds approaching, local employer feedback will play a pivotal role in shaping a skilled, diverse workforce.

By responding to the surveys, businesses can ensure that RCIP and FCIP continue to address real labour market needs while helping new talent succeed in Greater Sudbury.

Employer participation today can translate into stronger workforce solutions tomorrow, making the city more competitive and inclusive.