Canada Invests Over $9.3 Million in Francophone Minority Communities
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
The Importance of Francophone Immigration in Canada
Francophone immigration significantly contributes to Canada’s economic growth and the vitality of Francophone minority communities. It also addresses the nation’s labor market needs.
On International Francophonie Day, the Honourable Rachel Bendayan, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced a substantial investment of $9.3 million for 12 new projects. These initiatives aim to bolster the economic and demographic strength of Francophone minority communities.
Administered by the Centre for Innovation in Francophone Immigration, the projects receive funding through the Francophone Immigration Support Program. They focus on promoting community vitality, recruiting French-speaking candidates, and assisting them in attaining permanent residency.
Additionally, some initiatives aim to gather and analyze data to identify solutions that lower barriers to Francophone immigration.
For further details, visit the Centre for Innovation in Francophone Immigration.
Future Targets for Francophone Immigration
As outlined in the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada plans to increase the proportion of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec. The targets are set at 8.5% for 2025, 9.5% for 2026, and 10% by 2027. The government proudly surpassed its 2024 target of 1.21%, achieving 7.21% admissions of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec, reinforcing its commitment to Francophone immigration.
Minister’s Statement
“On this International Francophonie Day, I am pleased to announce concrete investments for the growth of Francophone communities. By continuing our efforts, we will ensure the future and sustainability of our cultural and linguistic landscape, which defines our country’s identity.” – The Honourable Rachel Bendayan, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Key Facts About the Initiative
- The Centre for Innovation in Francophone Immigration (CIFI) is nationally responsible for integrating Francophone perspectives into immigration programs. It promotes these programs to Francophone employers and stakeholders, enhancing the selection and admission of Francophone candidates.
- The Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028: Protection-Promotion-Collaboration allocates over $137 million to support Francophone immigration measures, facilitating the integration of Francophone immigrants.
- The 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan aims to strengthen Francophone minority communities by setting admission targets for Francophone permanent residents outside Quebec.
Additional Resources
- Centre for Innovation in Francophone Immigration
- Immigrate through Express Entry
- Policy on Francophone Immigration
- Action Plan for Official Languages 2023–2028: Protection-Promotion-Collaboration
- Immigrate to a Francophone community outside Quebec
Media Contacts
Contacts for media only
Renée LeBlanc Proctor
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Renee.Proctor@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Sector
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of the Francophone Immigration Support Program?
The program aims to promote Francophone minority communities, recruit French-speaking candidates, and support their path to permanent residency.
What are the future targets for French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec?
The targets are set at 8.5% for 2025, 9.5% for 2026, and 10% by 2027, reflecting Canada’s commitment to supporting Francophone immigration.
How much funding is allocated for Francophone immigration initiatives?
Over $137 million is invested in federal initiatives from 2023–2028 to support Francophone immigration measures.
Where can I find more information on the projects?
Details on the projects can be found on the Centre for Innovation in Francophone Immigration web page.
