
Good news!
Thunder Bay, Ontario has launched a new immigration program called the RCIP.
Itโs points-based and employer-driven โ but it works a little differently than most PR pathways.
Letโs break it down in an easy way. ๐
You Cannot Apply Directly!
This is very important:
You can’t just submit your resume or profile and wait for an invitation.
Hereโs how it works step-by-step:
- First, employers must apply and become Designated Employers.
- Only then can they recommend a candidate (like you) for PR.
- As a candidate, you must be ready โ show eligibility and have your documents prepared for the employer.
What are the Priority Jobs?
As of today, Thunder Bay has 25 occupations on its priority list.
(You can check the full list in the attached document.)
How Candidates Are Scored
Once a candidate is recommended, they will enter a pool for up to 6 months.
Your application will be ranked based on points in five key areas:
Factor | Maximum Points |
---|---|
Job Offer (approved sector + NOC) | 25 points |
Work Experience | 25 points |
Language Skills (English/French) | 25 points |
Education | 25 points |
Intent to Reside in Thunder Bay | 25 points |
โ
Important:
You must score at least 10 points in each area.
Tie-breaking rule will apply if needed (like Express Entry).
Extra Bonus Points
You can earn extra points if you:
- Have previous work or study experience in Thunder Bay.
- Rent or own property in Thunder Bay.
Example: How Points Add Up
Imagine a candidate who:
- Has a job offer for an Administrative Assistant position โ 21 points.
- Has 2 years of related work experience โ 15 points.
- Has English CLB 7 in all skills โ 20 points.
- Has a Bachelorโs degree โ 20 points.
- Shows a genuine intent to live in Thunder Bay โ 10 points.
โก๏ธ This candidate scores 86 points โ well above the 50-point minimum!
Bonus:
If they are renting a home in Thunder Bay and have local work experience, they get +6 bonus points!
How To Be Eligible
To qualify for RCIP, you must:
- Get a valid job offer from a Thunder Bay employer.
- The employer must be approved as a Designated Employer.
- You must prove that you meet the programโs requirements.
- Once approved, youโll get a Recommendation Certificate and can apply for Permanent Residency (PR).
- If needed, you can also apply for a Work Permit while waiting.
Warning! ๐จ
- Incomplete files or bad preparation = no chance.
- This is a competitive program. Planning and documentation are everything!

Q1: Can I apply without a job offer?
โ No. You must have a job offer from an employer who is willing to support your application.
Q2: What if I already have a job in Thunder Bay?
โ
Great! If your employer becomes designated, you might be eligible faster and also get bonus points!
Q3: How long does the process take?
๐ After entering the pool, candidates can stay for up to 6 months. Timelines depend on your application and employer readiness.
Q4: Is language testing mandatory?
โ
Yes. You must take an approved English or French language test (like IELTS) and meet the minimum scores.
Q5: Can I apply from outside Canada?
๐ Yes! You can apply from anywhere, as long as you meet all eligibility requirements and have a valid job offer.
Q6: What happens if my employer is not designated?
โ Without a designated employer, you cannot apply under this program. Your first step is finding an employer willing to complete the designation process.
Final Thoughts
Thunder Bayโs RCIP program is an exciting new way to get Canadian PR โ but you need smart planning, a supportive employer, and strong documentation to succeed.
Need help checking if you qualify or building your strategy?
๐ Reach out to Ask Kubeir today! Weโll guide you every step of the way.

Would you like a consultation to explore your Canadian work options? Contact Ask Kubeir today!
๐ If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services.
๐ To book an appointment with Kubeir โ Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the โBook Appointmentโ
๐ฒ You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services:
- (+๐ญ) ๐ฐ๐ฏ๐ณ-๐ณ๐ณ๐ณ-๐ฏ๐ณ๐ณ๐ณย (Canada)
- +971 45 26 4646ย (Dubai)
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details.