By: Karina Juma, Canadian Immigration & Refugee Lawyer, Heron Law Offices
Did you know that French-language skills can unlock more immigration pathways to Canada?
IRCC is prioritizing temporary and permanent residence opportunities for French-speaking applicants through its Policy on Francophone Immigration. For example, in its immigration levels plan released last October, IRCC announced French-speaking permanent resident targets outside Quebec of 8.5% in 2025, 9.5% in 2026, and 10% in 2027, as well as priority French-language draws in the Express Entry system.
Lately, we’ve seen growing interest in how French language skills can help applicants come to or stay in Canada. Below are some programs where French may give you an edge.
Francophone Mobility Work Permit
The Francophone Mobility Work Permit (C-16) allows Canadian employers to hire temporary workers without a labour market impact assessment if:
- They plan to work and live outside Quebec; and
- They have a French level of 5 or above in speaking and listening.
Proof of language ability can be shown through French test results, transcripts or letters of completion for college or university programs taken in French, or other documents showing education in French.
Francophone Community Immigration Pilot
The Francophone Community Immigration Pilot is a permanent residence pathway for skilled workers willing to work and settle in rural Francophone-minority communities. To qualify, applicants need to:
- Have a valid job offer from an employer in 1 of the 6 participating communities;
- Have at least 1 year of related work experience in the past 3 years;
- Have a French level of 5 or above in reading, writing, listening, and speaking;
- Have studied in Canada or have a foreign equivalency; and
- Show proof of funds (if not already working in Canada).
French-Language Proficiency Draws
Express Entry candidates with a French level of 7 or higher in reading, writing, listening, and speaking can earn up to 50 additional CRS points and may be invited to apply for permanent residence under French-language draws. The latest French-language proficiency draw was held on September 4, 2025, with a CRS cut-off of 446. Compare this with the CRS cut-off for recent Provincial Nominee Program draws (772 and 746) and Canadian Experience Class draws (534).
Are you a French-speaker exploring your Canadian immigration options? Contact Heron Law Offices today to learn which pathway may be right for you.
