Greater Sudbury Launches New Immigration Programs to Support Local Workforce
The City of Greater Sudbury is proud to announce the official launch of the Rural and Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP/FCIP) programs, approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). These innovative initiatives aim to address local workforce needs by helping employers in key sectors attract and retain skilled international talent.
“We saw tremendous success through the Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot program, which concluded in 2024, welcoming over 2,700 new residents to our community,” said Greater Sudbury Mayor Paul Lefebvre. “Now, we’re proud to be one of only two communities in Canada selected to host both the RCIP and FCIP programs moving forward. These new initiatives will support local businesses in filling critical skilled roles and help us continue building a stronger, more inclusive Greater Sudbury.”
Following extensive consultations with more than 300 employers, workforce partners and Francophone community leaders—as well as a comprehensive industry survey and data analysis—five priority sectors have been identified for each program. These sectors will guide employer eligibility for designation under the RCIP and FCIP programs.
Priority sectors the RCIP are:
- Natural and applied sciences
- Health
- Education, law and social, community and government services
- Trades and transport
- Natural resources and agriculture
Priority sectors for the FCIP are:
- Business, finance and administration
- Health
- Education, law and social, community and government services
- Art, culture, recreation and sport
- Trades and transport
Only employers operating within these sectors, within the designated program boundaries, and hiring for priority occupations will be eligible to apply for program designation.
“Programs like the Rural and Francophone Community Immigration Pilots are vital to the long-term growth and sustainability of our city,” said Shari Lichterman, Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Greater Sudbury. “These initiatives will help us attract the talent needed to support our key industries and employers, ensuring they have the workforce required to grow and thrive.”
So far this year, the City has received 525 candidate allocations for RCIP and 45 for FCIP. RCIP candidates will be selected through a points-based draw system, while FCIP recommendations will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis.
The programs are administered by the Greater Sudbury Development Corporation (GSDC), with support from City staff and Community Selection Committees composed of local employers, post-secondary institutions and Francophone leaders. These groups ensure program integrity and help guide strategic direction.
The City of Greater Sudbury extends sincere thanks to FedNor and the GSDC for their generous support and funding, which have been instrumental in bringing these programs to life.
