Francophone Immigration Strategy Outside Quebec
December 3, 2025
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Canada's commitment to linguistic duality is reflected in its efforts to support and grow French-speaking communities outside Quebec. The renewed Francophone Immigration Strategy, introduced in 2024, aims to increase the number of French-speaking permanent residents (PRs) settling in these communities, thereby enhancing their demographic and economic vitality.
Strategic Objectives and Targets
The strategy outlines a gradual and evidence-based approach to increasing admissions of French-speaking PRs. In 2024, Canada surpassed its 6% target by achieving 7.2%, with plans to reach 8.5% in 2025, 9.5% in 2026, and 10% by 2027. These targets are integrated into the Immigration Levels Plan and are informed by data and community feedback.
Key Initiatives Supporting the Strategy
1. Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative
Launched in 2020, this initiative focuses on helping French-speaking newcomers settle in 24 Francophone and Acadian communities across Canada. It emphasizes community-driven approaches, with local Francophone networks identifying and supporting the needs of newcomers.
2. Express Entry for French-Speaking Skilled Workers
Introduced in 2023, this program awards additional points to candidates with strong French-language skills, prioritizing them for permanent residency. This initiative aims to attract skilled workers to contribute to Canada's economy while supporting the growth of Francophone communities.
3. Francophone Community Immigration Pilot
Launched in 2025, this pilot program targets rural and remote Francophone communities, offering permanent residency pathways to skilled workers willing to settle in these areas. It addresses labor shortages and promotes the economic development of these communities.
Community Engagement and Support
The success of the strategy relies heavily on the active participation of Francophone and Acadian communities. Through the Réseaux en immigration francophone (Francophone immigration networks), these communities play a pivotal role in welcoming and integrating newcomers, ensuring they feel at home and can contribute meaningfully to their new environment.
Looking Ahead
With the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan setting ambitious targets, the continued success of the Francophone Immigration Strategy will depend on sustained collaboration between federal, provincial, and territorial governments, as well as community organizations. The focus will be on creating inclusive environments, providing language training, and ensuring access to employment and settlement services to support the integration and retention of French-speaking newcomers.
For more information on Canada's Francophone Immigration Strategy, visit IRCC's official page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Francophone Immigration Strategy Outside Quebec?
The strategy aims to increase the number of French-speaking permanent residents settling in Francophone and Acadian communities outside Quebec, enhancing their demographic and economic vitality.
How Does the Express Entry System Support French-speaking Immigrants?
The Express Entry system awards additional points to candidates with strong French-language skills, prioritizing them for permanent residency and encouraging settlement in Francophone communities.
What is the Francophone Community Immigration Pilot?
Launched in 2025, this pilot program offers permanent residency pathways to skilled workers willing to settle in rural and remote Francophone communities, addressing labor shortages and promoting economic development.