RCIP 2026 Update: Sault Ste. Marie Official Priority NOC List
Canada’s Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) continues to expand as one of the most important immigration pathways for skilled foreign workers looking to settle in smaller cities and rural communities. One of the key participating communities in the RCIP is Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, which has formally released its priority National Occupational Classification (NOC) list for 2026 to help align immigration with local labour market needs. This makes it easier for foreign workers to understand which jobs and skills are in demand and how RCIP can support their journey towards Canadian permanent residence (PR).
What is the RCIP?
The Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP) is a federal permanent residency pathway designed to support rural and smaller Canadian communities in addressing labour shortages by attracting and retaining skilled workers from around the world. RCIP is employer-driven, meaning applicants must receive a job offer from a designated employer within the community and work in one of the priority sectors or occupations selected by that community.
Why Sault Ste. Marie’s RCIP Matters in 2026
Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario — often called “The Sault” — is strategically positioned near the Canada–U.S. border and has a growing need for skilled workers in key economic sectors. To support its long-term growth and compete economically, the city has now officially released its priority NOC list for RCIP 2026, highlighting the occupations most urgently needed within the local labour market. This list connects permanent residency opportunities, in-demand occupations, and community growth objectives.
RCIP 2026 PRIORITY NOCs
Here are the sectors chosen for the city of Sault Ste. Marie for 2026
- Health
- Education, Law and Social Community and Government Services
- Business and Finance
- Trade, Transport and Equipment Operators
- Manufacturing and Utilities
- Natural and Applied Sciences
These sectors reflect labour gaps in healthcare, technical and engineering services, skilled trades, and community support roles — making them focal points for immigration.
Official RCIP 2026 Priority NOC Codes for Sault Ste. Marie
Below is the official list of RCIP 2026 priority occupations and their NOC codes as provided by the City of Sault Ste. Marie’s RCIP employer page. This list can help candidates assess whether their current job skills or job offers may qualify under the pilot.
| NOC Code | Occupation Name |
|---|---|
| 31102 | General Practitioners and Family Physicians |
| 31301 | Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses |
| 32101 | Licensed Practical Nurses |
| 33102 | Personal Support Worker |
| 33100 | Dental Assistant |
| 42201 | Social and Community Service Workers |
| 42202 | Early Childhood Educators and Assistants |
| 11100 | Financial Auditors and Accountants |
| 13100 | Administrative Officers |
| 11102 | Financial Advisor |
| 22220 | Computer Network and Web Technicians |
| 14200 | Accounting and Related Clerks |
| 20010 | Engineering Managers |
| 21321 | Industrial and Manufacturing Engineers |
| 22301 | Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians |
| 22310 | Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technologists and Technicians |
| 72100 | Machinists and Machining and Tooling Inspectors |
| 72400 | Construction Millwrights and Industrial Mechanics |
| 72404 | Aircraft Instruments, Electrical and Avionics Mechanics, Technicians and Inspectors |
| 72410 | Automotive Service Technicians |
| 75119 | Trade Helpers and Labourers |
| 73301 | Transit Operators |
| 94107 | Production Worker |
| 93200 | Aircraft Assemblers and Aircraft Assembly Inspectors |
| 94219 | Finishing Line Worker |
Note: This table has been compiled from official RCIP employer information published by the City of Sault Ste. Marie for 2026.
https://welcometossm.com/rcip_employer/
What This Means for Job Seekers and Immigrants
Increased Opportunities in Skilled Jobs
If you’re an international worker or newcomer with experience in healthcare (e.g., nurses, physicians), education, social services, trades, or technical roles, RCIP may provide a direct pathway to Canadian permanent residence. Employers within these priority sectors are actively looking for skilled talent to fill gaps and support community needs.
How RCIP Works (Quick Overview)
- Get a valid job offer from a designated employer in Sault Ste. Marie.
- Meet work experience, education, and language requirements as determined by the occupation.
- Apply through the local RCIP process for a community recommendation.
- Submit a PR application to IRCC within the required timeframe after receiving community recommendation.
These steps affect how quickly and effectively applicants can transition to permanent residency in Canada.
Tips for Applicants
Make sure your job offer matches a priority NOC code in the 2026 list.
Always confirm that your employer is designated under RCIP before applying.
Check language proficiency requirements based on your occupation’s skill level.
Keep an eye on updates as priority lists can evolve year-to-year.
Conclusion
The RCIP 2026 update for Sault Ste. Marie brings exciting opportunities for skilled workers seeking permanent residency in Canada through employer-driven immigration pathways. By clearly defining the city’s priority NOC codes and employment sectors, Sault Ste. Marie is prioritizing labour force sustainability, community growth, and strategic economic development — all while offering immigrants a chance to thrive in a welcoming Canadian city.
If your occupation is on the 2026 priority list and you are ready to begin your journey toward Canadian permanent residence, now is the time to take action. Contact iCA Immigration & Talent Services today to assess your eligibility, secure employer guidance, and receive expert support throughout your RCIP application process.
