Thunder Bay Secures 150 Immigration Spaces for 2027

Thunder Bay will receive 150 provincial immigration nomination spaces in 2027 under Ontario's Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) initiative.

The Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) announced the allocation on October 21, 2026, confirming that the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) will select eligible foreign workers through the regional pathway.

The initiative aims to help communities outside the Greater Toronto Area attract skilled workers, fill labour shortages and support local economic development.

Thunder Bay Receives Fewer Spaces Than Before

The new allocation represents a reduction from Thunder Bay's previous REDI quota.

During the 2025 initiative, which operated from January 2 to December 31, Thunder Bay received 200 provincial nomination spaces. Its allocation for 2027 is 50 spaces lower, representing a 25% decrease.

Under REDI, Ontario reserves part of its annual provincial nomination allocation for participating communities.

This approach allows employers in smaller Ontario regions to access immigration pathways that support their workforce requirements.

The initiative also creates opportunities for eligible foreign workers who want to establish themselves permanently in these communities.

Who Can Apply Through the REDI Initiative?

Foreign workers interested in this pathway must meet Ontario's immigration eligibility requirements.

Applicants need a qualifying job offer from an employer located within the designated community boundaries. Their employer must register the job offer, after which the worker has 30 days to create an Expression of Interest (EOI).

Ontario then selects eligible candidates through targeted regional draws.

Receiving an invitation allows a worker to apply for provincial nomination. If Ontario approves the nomination, the candidate can submit a permanent residence application to the federal government.

Provincial nomination does not automatically guarantee permanent residence, as federal immigration authorities make the final decision.

Ontario Workforce Priority Stream Remains Available

The Ontario Workforce Priority Stream (OWPS) is currently the only active OINP pathway through which applicants can qualify for REDI.

Eligible foreign workers must satisfy the stream's requirements, including applicable employment, experience and other eligibility conditions.

Ontario has also confirmed that REDI does not require a separate application. Candidates follow the relevant OINP process to receive consideration.

Six Ontario Regions Participate in REDI

The 2026–2027 REDI initiative will continue until December 31, 2027.

Alongside Thunder Bay, five other Ontario regions are participating: Greater Sudbury, Kenora District, Nipissing District, Rainy River District and Renfrew County.

Ontario selected these communities to help address regional workforce shortages and encourage economic growth outside major urban centres.

The province hopes that targeted immigration opportunities will help local businesses recruit skilled employees while encouraging newcomers to settle in smaller communities.

What Employers and Workers Should Know

Thunder Bay employers seeking additional information about REDI can contact the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program at immigration.ontario@ontario.ca.

Employers can also arrange consultations to better understand the initiative and its requirements.

For eligible foreign workers, the 2027 allocation offers another potential route toward permanent residence while supporting Thunder Bay's long-term workforce and economic needs.