Hamilton: A Hub for Francophone Immigration
From: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Hamilton’s New Role in Francophone Immigration
On May 31, 2019, Hamilton, ON, was chosen as a Welcoming Francophone Community under Canada’s Action Plan for Official Languages. This initiative aims to assist 14 communities across the nation with funding to develop programs that help French-speaking newcomers integrate into Francophone minority communities.
The initiative, backed by a $12.6 million budget over three years, was introduced in Budget 2018. It focuses on supporting the integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers in Canada. The strategy, unveiled on March 13, 2019, involves collaboration between federal, provincial, territorial, and community partners to enhance the vitality of official-language minority communities through immigration.
Key Aspects of the Francophone Immigration Strategy
Community and Government Collaboration
The Francophone Immigration Strategy emphasizes a collective approach “by and for Francophones,” aiming to increase the number of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec, support newcomer integration, and strengthen Francophone community capacities.
Quotes from Key Figures
“Francophone communities warmly welcome French-speaking newcomers to Canada. Hamilton can now become more inviting, offering Francophone immigrants opportunities to call Canada home. With the Francophone Immigration Strategy, we are dedicated to increasing the proportion of French-speaking immigrants in minority communities.” – The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
“Hamilton’s vibrant Francophone community will benefit from our government’s investment. I look forward to welcoming more Francophones and sharing in Hamilton’s growing Francophone culture.” – The Honourable Filomena Tassi, MP for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas and Minister of Seniors
“Hamilton is proud of its diverse immigrant population. This $1,350,000 funding will help ensure Francophone immigrants find a welcoming home in Hamilton.” – Bob Bratina, MP for Hamilton East—Stoney Creek
Quick Facts
- Francophone Welcoming Communities initiative
- This pilot project is co-led by IRCC and Francophone communities, including 13 Réseaux en immigration francophone, the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne du Canada, and the Comité atlantique sur l’immigration francophone.
- Meeting Our Objectives: Francophone Immigration Strategy
- Several initiatives have already begun, including those announced during National Francophone Immigration Week in November 2018.
- By December 2018, 4.5% of Express Entry invitations were extended to French-speaking candidates, up from 2.9% in 2017.
Associated Links
- Meeting Our Objectives: Francophone Immigration Strategy 2018-2023
- Francophone Immigration (Outside Quebec)
- Action Plan for Official Languages – 2018-2023: Investing in Our Future
- Immigration Minister announces key initiatives to promote Francophone immigration from pre-arrival to citizenship
- Federal/Provincial/Territorial Action Plan for Increasing Francophone Immigration Outside of Quebec
Contact Information
Contacts for media only:
Mathieu Genest
Minister’s Office
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-954-1064
Media Relations
Communications Branch
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
613-952-1650
IRCC.COMMMediaRelations-RelationsmediasCOMM.IRCC@cic.gc.ca
FAQs About Francophone Immigration
What is the objective of the Francophone Immigration Strategy?
The strategy aims to increase the number of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec and enhance the integration and retention of these newcomers.
How is the Francophone Welcoming Communities initiative funded?
The initiative is supported by a $12.6 million budget over three years as announced in Budget 2018.
What role does the community play in this initiative?
The initiative is a collaborative effort involving community partners to support the integration of French-speaking newcomers.
How many communities are part of the program?
A total of 14 communities across Canada are selected to participate in this initiative.
Ready to become part of a thriving Francophone community? Read our immigration guide to learn more about opportunities in Hamilton.
