Did you know that a strong command of French can unlock various pathways for immigration to Canada?

French holds status as one of Canada’s official languages, playing a vital role in the nation’s identity and cultural heritage. Consequently, Canada provides several streamlined measures to welcome French-speaking immigrants. 

Canada Simplifies Entry for French-Speakers

In the summer of 2023, Canada introduced category-based draws for French-speaking candidates within the Express Entry system. This initiative significantly reduced the points requirement for candidates with French proficiency, even for those with basic or intermediate skills, often by more than 100 points compared to candidates without such language abilities. Consequently, French-speaking candidates now have a notably higher chance of receiving invitations to apply for immigration. This approach resembles a high jump competition where the bar is set lower for French-speaking candidates.

While Quebec predominantly speaks French and maintains more control over its immigration system, Canada aims to attract French-speaking immigrants to other regions as well. In 2022, Canada exceeded its target of welcoming 4.4 percent of French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec, reaching approximately 4.7 percent. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to further increase this ratio to 6% in 2024, 7% in 2025, and ultimately achieve 8% by 2026.

The introduction of the lower bar for French-speaking candidates in 2023 was accompanied by recognition from Canada’s then-immigration minister, Sean Fraser, of the valuable contributions that French speakers bring to the country.

In 2023, a new legislation aimed at further promoting the use of French was enacted. Among its provisions, the law requires the immigration minister to develop a policy to attract French-speaking immigrants to Canada. Minister Marc Miller, overseeing immigration, unveiled a series of policies and new laws in January 2024. This included an expansion of the Welcoming Francophone Communities initiative. Subsequently, in March, he announced the launch of a new Francophone Community Immigration pilot program. This initiative is designed to increase the proportion of French-speaking immigrants settling in rural and northern communities, thus supporting the growth and vitality of Francophone minority communities outside Quebec. These projects are bolstered by significant funding through the Francophone Immigration Support Program.

According to the Express Entry annual report, the proportion of immigrants gaining points for French language proficiency within the system has been steadily increasing from 4 percent in 2019 to 6 percent in 2021. In 2021 alone, 18,140 Express Entry candidates earned points for their French language skills. With French now designated as its own Express Entry category, it is expected that this number will continue to rise. Given the relatively low Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores required, proficiency in French could arguably be the most straightforward path to immigration through Express Entry in 2024.

How French Proficiency Aids Immigration to Canada via Express Entry?

Having proficiency in French not only helps you earn additional points in the Express Entry system, thereby increasing your chances of receiving an invitation in any draw, but it also makes you eligible for specialized French category-based draws, often with lower points thresholds.

Express Entry is Canada’s electronic application management system for skilled worker immigration programs. It encompasses three main programs: Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades (FST).

Express Entry operates on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), a points-based matrix that evaluates candidates based on factors like language ability, work experience, education, and age. Proficiency in English or French, or ideally both, is essential for all candidates.

To immigrate to Canada through Express Entry, you need to qualify for one of the Express Entry programs, accumulate CRS points, receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) in an Express Entry draw, and then submit a complete and accurate application. The ITA serves as your opportunity to apply for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry.

What Are the Advantages of Speaking French in Canada?

There are numerous economic advantages for French speakers in Canada. Proficiency in both English and French can enhance your prospects on job applications significantly.

For example, fluency in French opens doors to coveted positions within the Government of Canada, which is mandated to offer services in both official languages, as well as some provincial governments. Moreover, under Bill C-13, federally-regulated private businesses are required to provide service options in French.

Furthermore, if you aspire to teach French in Canada, numerous opportunities exist nationwide, including French immersion schools catering to children.

While we can’t cover all economic prospects associated with French proficiency in Canada, it’s noteworthy that the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation offers media job opportunities in French across the country.

Additionally, Canada’s tourism industry caters to French speakers globally, providing further employment prospects.

Beyond economics, the value of speaking French in Canada transcends career advancement, fostering connections with the broader francophone community nationwide.

Final Thoughts:
The importance of French language proficiency in Canada extends far beyond linguistic capabilities, offering numerous economic opportunities and cultural connections. Being bilingual in English and French enhances job prospects significantly, particularly within the Government of Canada and federally-regulated private businesses required to offer services in both languages. Additionally, opportunities abound for French teachers across the country, including in French immersion schools. The media sector, represented by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, also offers employment options in French. Moreover, Canada’s tourism industry caters to French-speaking visitors, further highlighting the value of French language skills. Beyond economics, speaking French in Canada fosters a sense of belonging within the broader francophone community, enriching cultural experiences and connections nationwide.