Canada Amplifies Francophone Mobility Program to Boost French-Speaking Immigration
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Introduction to the Francophone Mobility Program Expansion
Canada prioritizes Francophone immigration, actively seeking to welcome French-speaking individuals. The nation introduces innovative programs to integrate newcomers into minority communities, enriching the social landscape.
On June 15, 2023, in Ottawa, the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced an extension of the Francophone Mobility Program for two years. This initiative enables Canadian employers to offer jobs to qualified French-speaking candidates across various occupations, excluding primary agriculture. Initially focused on highly skilled workers, this expansion now provides broader access to French-speaking immigrants, offering them a pathway to Canadian work experience and potential permanent residency.
Updated Language Requirements for Francophone Immigration
The program updates its French language criteria for applicants seeking work permits. Candidates must now demonstrate moderate proficiency in oral comprehension and expression, equivalent to level 5 on the language scale. This change widens the pool of eligible French-speaking candidates.
Applicants must provide proof of meeting these language standards, such as a French evaluation test, a diploma from a French institution, or proof of French-language studies.
These program modifications reinforce Canada’s dedication to population growth and economic strength while supporting the vitality of Francophone minority communities and addressing workforce shortages.
Officials’ Insights
“Our government is committed to increasing the presence of French-speaking immigrants from coast to coast to coast. The changes to the Francophone Mobility Program open the possibility for this and support the development of the Francophone minority communities that welcome them. By attracting more French-speaking individuals, we embrace a wealth of linguistic talents and cultural perspectives, and a shared heritage that enriches the cultural tapestry of our great nation.”
– The Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“As a proud Franco-Ontarian, I believe we need to do everything we can to protect the French culture and language. Increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec remains one of our top priorities. That’s why we will always advocate for the expansion of programs like the Francophone Mobility Program, which support the vitality of Francophone minority communities across Canada.”
– Marie-France Lalonde, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Quick Facts About the Francophone Mobility Program
- In 2016, the Francophone Mobility Program launched under the International Mobility Program to help employers recruit skilled French-speaking workers for communities outside Quebec.
- The program’s Labour Market Impact Assessment exemption simplifies hiring processes for employers seeking skilled French-speaking workers.
- Eligible workers can gain Canadian work experience and qualify for permanent residence programs, increasing their chances of receiving an Express Entry invitation.
- Statistics: In 2019, 1,900 work permits were issued under the program, with similar numbers in 2020 and 2021. From June 2016 to December 2020, 1,080 of 5,700 temporary permit holders transitioned to permanent residence. Nearly two-thirds of applicants work in sectors requiring post-secondary training.
Associated Links
- Francophone Mobility work permit: How to apply
- Immigrate to a French community outside Quebec
- Find your National Occupation Classification (NOC)
- TCF Canada
- TEF Canada
- Canada meets its Francophone immigration target in 2022
Contact Information for Media
Contacts for media only:
Bahoz Dara Aziz
Press Secretary
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Bahoz.DaraAziz@cic.gc.ca
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
media@cic.gc.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Francophone Mobility Program?
The Francophone Mobility Program is an initiative under the International Mobility Program, designed to recruit French-speaking temporary foreign workers for communities outside Quebec.
Who is eligible for the Francophone Mobility Program?
Eligible candidates must demonstrate moderate proficiency in French and meet specific language requirements. They must provide proof of language skills, such as a French evaluation test or diploma.
How does the program benefit French-speaking immigrants?
The program allows French-speaking immigrants to gain Canadian work experience, enhancing their chances of permanent residency and supporting the vitality of minority communities.
Are there any occupation restrictions in the program?
While the program covers a wide range of occupations, it excludes primary agriculture jobs.
How does the program support Canadian employers?
By exempting the Labour Market Impact Assessment, the program simplifies the hiring process for Canadian employers seeking skilled French-speaking workers.
Read our immigration guide for more detailed information.
For further inquiries, please contact the media relations team.
