On This Page You Will Find
- Why French-speaking immigrants are a priority for Canada
- Canada’s new French-speaking PR admissions targets (2023–2027)
- Which programs favour French-speaking candidates
- How speaking French increases your chances of success
- Key pilot programs for Francophone newcomers
- FAQs on Francophone immigration
French-Speaking Newcomers in Demand
Canada is making it easier to immigrate if you speak French. In response to the long-term decline in the percentage of Francophones living outside Quebec, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has launched several initiatives to boost the number of French-speaking newcomers.
For many candidates, speaking French has become a fast track to permanent residence (PR), thanks to new language-based immigration targets, dedicated pilot programs, plus bonus points and a specific Francophone category in Express Entry.
Why Is Canada Prioritising Francophone Immigration?
Francophones currently make up just 3.5% of Canada’s population outside Quebec – a sharp drop from 6.1% in 1971. Without intervention, this demographic is projected to decline further. Recognising this, the federal government passed a modernised Official Languages Act (OLA), which now mandates IRCC to restore and increase the demographic weight of Francophone minority communities.
Francophone immigration is seen as a key solution to preserving Canada’s bilingual character and supporting vibrant, diverse communities across the country.
New French-Speaking Permanent Resident Targets
As part of its January 2024 Policy on Francophone Immigration, IRCC is gradually increasing French-speaking PR admissions targets through 2027. These targets apply to Francophone immigrants settling outside Quebec.
| Year | Target | Actual (if available) |
| 2023 | 4.4% | 4.7% |
| 2024 | 6% | 7.21% |
| 2025 | 8.5% | TBD |
| 2026 | 9.5% | TBD |
| 2027 | 10% | TBD |
By 2027, one in ten new permanent residents outside Quebec is expected to be French-speaking – a substantial shift from historical patterns.
Which Immigration Programs Favour French Speakers?
Express Entry – Category-based Draws and Additional Points for French Proficiency
French-speaking ability is the only non-occupation-based category included in Express Entry category-based draws. Canada had conducted several draws, inviting thousands of candidates who qualify.
French-speaking candidates also get a significant advantage in Express Entry:
- 25 bonus CRS points for intermediate French (CLB 7+) without English
- 50 bonus CRS points for advanced French (CLB 7+) combined with English (CLB 5+)
These points can often make the difference between receiving an invitation to apply and being left in the pool.
Francophone Mobility Work Permit
This program allows French-speaking foreign workers to get an open work permit to work outside Quebec without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It’s especially helpful for employers seeking bilingual talent.
Francophone Immigration Community Pilot (FCIP)
Launched in January 2025, this pilot provides permanent residence to skilled French-speaking workers settling in selected rural communities. It is designed to help smaller Francophone regions grow economically and culturally.
Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP)
French-speaking international students who graduate from eligible Francophone colleges and universities outside Quebec can apply for permanent residence more easily through this 2024 pilot. It also offers settlement support during their studies.
Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative (WFC)
This initiative supports newcomers by funding local Francophone groups in 24 communities. These organisations provide social support, help with housing, and connect immigrants with job and integration opportunities.
How Speaking French Increases Your Immigration Chances
If you are a French speaker, you may benefit in several ways:
- Higher CRS scores in Express Entry due to language bonus points
- Exclusive access to Francophone-only pilot programs
- Priority in rural and regional immigration strategies
- Strong community support through Francophone settlement organisations
- Increased employment demand for bilingual candidates in healthcare, education, public service, and customer support roles
In short, speaking French makes you more competitive – and more wanted – as an immigrant to Canada.
Canada’s Global Promotion Strategy for French Speakers
IRCC is actively recruiting French-speaking candidates from across the globe, particularly from Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, where French is widely spoken. Priority countries include:
- Democratic Republic of Congo
- Senegal
- Ivory Coast
- Cameroon
- Madagascar
- Vietnam
- India (French-speaking regions)
This global outreach supports Canada’s dual goals of linguistic diversity and economic development.
Coordinated Government Effort
Canada’s approach to Francophone immigration is not limited to IRCC. The federal government is taking a whole-of-government approach, coordinating with:
- Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)
- Global Affairs Canada
- Health Canada
- Canadian Heritage
Additionally, provinces and territories are revising immigration agreements with Ottawa to include stronger Francophone targets.
What’s Coming Next
Two important developments are expected soon:
- New French-speaking PR targets will be announced in the 2026–2028 Multi-Year Immigration Levels Plan.
- The first annual review of the Francophone Immigration Policy Implementation Plan will evaluate success to date and gather feedback from provinces and communities.
These will shape the next phase of Canada’s pro-Francophone strategy.
Doors Open to Francophones
If you speak French and are considering immigrating to Canada, your timing has never been better. With increasing permanent resident targets, special programs, and government-wide support, French-speaking newcomers now enjoy more advantages than ever before.
Whether through Express Entry, work permits, or study pathways, Canada is actively opening its doors to Francophones – especially those looking to settle outside Quebec and contribute to bilingual, multicultural communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak both French and English to benefit from these programs?
No. You can qualify with French alone. However, combining both languages increases your Express Entry score and broadens your job prospects.
What level of French do I need?
You typically need CLB 7 (intermediate) in French to qualify for immigration bonuses. You may need to take TEF Canada or TCF Canada to prove proficiency.
Can I apply to live in Quebec through these Francophone programs?
No. These initiatives are focused on increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec. Quebec manages its own immigration system.
What types of jobs are in demand for French-speaking immigrants?
Healthcare, education, administration, skilled trades, and customer service are common sectors where bilingual skills are in high demand.
Are there age limits for Francophone immigration programs?
No formal age limits exist, but Express Entry awards more points to applicants aged 20 to 29. Other programs may have flexible age requirements.
