Canada is making it easier to immigrate for French speakers. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced programs and incentives to attract more Francophone newcomers. This comes in response to the declining number of French-speaking residents outside Quebec.
For many candidates, speaking French can fast-track permanent residency. French language skills can increase your score in Express Entry, open access to special pilot programs, and provide settlement support.
Why French-Speaking Immigrants Are a Priority
French-speaking residents outside Quebec currently make up only 3.5% of Canada’s population, down from 6.1% in 1971. Without intervention, this share is projected to fall further. To address this, the federal government passed a modernized Official Languages Act. The law directs IRCC to increase the number of Francophone immigrants and support minority Francophone communities.
New French-Speaking Permanent Resident Targets
IRCC has set annual targets for French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec. In 2023, the target was 4.4% of new PRs, and the actual was slightly higher at 4.7%. The target for 2024 increased to 6%, and early data shows an actual rate of 7.21%. For 2025, the target is 8.5%, rising to 9.5% in 2026, and reaching 10% by 2027. By then, one in ten new permanent residents outside Quebec is expected to speak French, marking a significant shift from historical trends.
Immigration Programs That Favor French Speakers
Express Entry
French-speaking ability is a non-occupation-based category in Express Entry draws. Candidates can earn bonus points: 25 points for intermediate French (CLB 7+) without English, and 50 points for advanced French (CLB 7+) with English (CLB 5+). These points can make the difference in receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Francophone Mobility Work Permit
This program allows French-speaking foreign workers to work anywhere in Canada outside Quebec without a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It benefits employers seeking bilingual talent.
Francophone Immigration Community Pilot (FCIP)
Launched in 2025, this pilot offers permanent residence to skilled French-speaking workers in selected rural communities. It helps smaller Francophone regions grow culturally and economically.
Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP)
French-speaking international students graduating from eligible colleges or universities outside Quebec can apply for permanent residence more easily. The program also provides settlement support during studies.
Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative (WFC)
This initiative funds local Francophone groups in 24 communities. These organizations provide housing assistance, job support, and help with integration.
How Speaking French Increases Your Immigration Chances
French speakers benefit in several ways. They earn higher CRS scores in Express Entry due to bonus points, gain access to Francophone-only pilot programs, and get priority in rural and regional immigration strategies. They also receive strong community support through Francophone settlement organizations.
Employment demand for bilingual candidates is higher in healthcare, education, public service, and customer support. Speaking French makes candidates more competitive and more wanted in Canada.
Global Promotion of French-Speaking Immigration
IRCC targets French speakers worldwide, particularly from countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia. Priority countries include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Madagascar, Vietnam, and French-speaking regions of India. This global outreach supports Canada’s bilingual character and economic development.
Coordinated Government Effort
Francophone immigration involves multiple federal agencies. These include Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), Global Affairs Canada, Health Canada, and Canadian Heritage. Provinces and territories are also updating agreements with Ottawa to strengthen Francophone targets and support.
What’s Coming Next
Two major developments are expected soon. First, new French-speaking PR targets for 2026–2028 will be announced. Second, the first annual review of the Francophone Immigration Policy Implementation Plan will assess progress and gather feedback from provinces and communities. These steps will shape the next phase of Canada’s strategy to attract Francophone immigrants.
Conclusion
Speaking French significantly improves your chances of immigrating to Canada. With higher CRS points, access to pilot programs, and strong community support, French speakers are highly valued. Whether through Express Entry, work permits, or study programs, Canada is opening doors for Francophone newcomers. These programs focus on those willing to settle outside Quebec and contribute to bilingual, multicultural communities.