International workers seeking opportunities in smaller Ontario communities could benefit from a new regional immigration allocation announced for Thunder Bay. The northwestern Ontario city is expected to receive 150 provincial nomination spaces in 2027 through the Regional Economic Development through Immigration (REDI) initiative.
The allocation was announced by the Thunder Bay Community Economic Development Commission (CEDC) on October 21, 2026. Through this arrangement, eligible foreign workers employed by local businesses will have an opportunity to pursue permanent residence through Ontario’s provincial immigration system.
Thunder Bay’s Share of Ontario’s Regional Immigration Quota
The upcoming allocation will provide Thunder Bay with 150 nomination spaces for the 2027 program period. This represents a reduction compared with the previous REDI initiative, when the city received 200 spaces for the 2025 cycle.
| Immigration Allocation | Number of Spaces |
| Thunder Bay’s 2025 REDI allocation | 200 |
| Thunder Bay’s 2027 REDI allocation | 150 |
| Difference | 50 fewer spaces |
Despite the smaller allocation, the initiative continues to offer local businesses an opportunity to bring in international employees and retain skilled workers in the region.
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Six Communities Will Benefit From the REDI Initiative
Ontario is extending its regional immigration approach beyond its major metropolitan areas. The 2026–2027 REDI initiative includes six participating regions, with the program scheduled to remain active until December 31, 2027.
The participating locations are:
| Participating Region |
| Thunder Bay |
| Greater Sudbury/Grand Sudbury |
| Kenora District |
| Nipissing District |
| Rainy River District |
| Renfrew County |
These communities can use the initiative to attract qualified foreign workers whose skills are needed by regional employers.
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Which Ontario Immigration Stream Can REDI Applicants Use?
The Ontario Workforce Priority Stream (OWPS) is currently the only active OINP pathway through which foreign workers can be considered under REDI, according to the information provided.
This means that applicants must pay attention to the stream-specific eligibility conditions in addition to the regional employment requirements.
For employers, the initiative offers a way to connect recruitment needs with Ontario’s provincial immigration system. Businesses seeking further information about REDI can contact the OINP at immigration.ontario@ontario.ca to discuss participation and consultation opportunities.
Conclusion
Ontario’s immigration opportunities are not limited to employment in Toronto and the GTA. Smaller communities also need qualified professionals to support businesses, maintain essential services and strengthen local economies.
The REDI initiative addresses this gap by directing a portion of Ontario’s provincial nomination opportunities towards selected regional communities.
For foreign workers, this creates an additional route worth exploring, particularly if they already have employment prospects in Thunder Bay or another participating area.
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