Ontario’s Superior East Region Introduces Francophone Immigration Pathway
The Superior East region of Northern Ontario has officially launched its participation in the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP), offering a new pathway to permanent residence (PR) for French-speaking foreign nationals.
This marks the sixth and final Ontario community to roll out the FCIP, joining other regions in welcoming Francophone newcomers to fill labour market gaps and strengthen local communities.
About the Superior East Region
- Located along the northern shore of Lake Superior.
- Includes communities such as Chapleau, Dubreuilville, Wawa, White River, Hornepayne, and Manitouwadge, as well as surrounding First Nations.
- The area is focused on attracting Francophone workers to support economic growth and community development.
What is the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP)?
The FCIP is an employer-driven program designed to attract and retain French-speaking immigrants.
To qualify, candidates must:
- Have a job offer in a priority sector and occupation from a designated employer.
- Demonstrate French language proficiency (minimum NCLC 5 in all four skills).
- Show at least one year of relevant work experience (waived for eligible international graduates).
- Hold at least a secondary school education credential (Canadian or equivalent).
- Meet the minimum settlement fund requirement.
Successful candidates receive a recommendation from the local economic development organization, which allows them to:
- Apply for permanent residence through the federal government.
- Access a work permit to begin employment while their PR application is being processed.
Superior East Priority Sectors
- Health sector.
- Education, law, community, and government services.
- Sales and service.
- Trades, transport, and machinery.
- Natural resources, agriculture, and production.
Superior East Priority Occupations
| Occupation | NOC Code |
|---|---|
| Animal health technologists & veterinary technicians | 32104 |
| Automotive service technicians, mechanics & repairers | 72410 |
| Carpenters | 72310 |
| Cashiers | 65100 |
| Industrial mechanics & millwrights | 72400 |
| Construction helpers & labourers | 75110 |
| Cooks | 63200 |
| Early childhood educators & assistants | 42202 |
| Electricians (non-industrial) | 72200 |
| Elementary & kindergarten teachers | 41221 |
| Food counter attendants, kitchen helpers | 65201 |
| Food service supervisors | 62020 |
| Building maintenance workers | 73201 |
| Heavy equipment operators | 73400 |
| Home support workers & caregivers | 44101 |
| Light duty cleaners | 65310 |
| Licensed practical nurses | 32101 |
| Nurse aides, orderlies & patient associates | 33102 |
| Small engine repairers | 72429 |
| Paramedical occupations | 32102 |
| Retail sales supervisors | 62010 |
| Secondary school teachers | 41220 |
| Social & community service workers | 42201 |
| Underground miners | 83100 |
| Welders & related operators | 72106 |
Note: Superior East has not yet released its official list of designated employers.
Why This Matters
- Employer-driven: Only businesses in priority sectors can participate as designated employers.
- Targeted immigration: Ensures newcomers meet local labour market needs.
- Francophone focus: Strengthens French-speaking communities in Ontario.
- PR advantage: Provides a direct pathway to permanent residency with work authorization.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
