The Francophone Mobility Program is a Canadian immigration initiative designed to help French-speaking foreign workers find jobs in Canada outside Quebec. This program allows employers to hire qualified candidates without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), making it easier and faster for French-speaking professionals to work in Canada.
This program falls under the International Mobility Program (IMP) and aims to promote the French language and culture in Canadian provinces and territories where English is the primary language.
Francophone Mobility Program Eligibility
To qualify for the Francophone Mobility Program, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Language Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate that their French proficiency is at an intermediate level (CLB 5 or higher) in speaking and listening.
- Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer for a position outside Quebec is required. The job must be in a TEER category 0, 1, 2, or 3 NOC Code.
- Work Permit: Eligible candidates can apply for an employer-specific work permit, which allows them to work only for the hiring employer in Canada.
Note: Low-skilled jobs (TEER 4 and 5) are generally not eligible for this program unless a special exemption applies.
Francophone Mobility Program Requirements
To apply under this program, applicants and employers must meet the following requirements:
For Applicants:
- Proof of French language proficiency (such as a TEF or TCF test score of CLB 5 or higher).
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer outside Quebec.
- A completed work permit application under the International Mobility Program.
For Employers:
- A valid job offer letter specifying job details (salary, duties, duration, etc.).
- The employer must submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and pay the compliance fee of $230 CAD.
- The job offer must fall under TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3.
Once all requirements are met, the candidate can apply for a work permit under the Francophone Mobility Program.
Francophone Mobility Program Processing Time
The processing time for the Francophone Mobility Program varies depending on the country of application and the applicant’s situation. Generally, work permits under this program take 1 to 3 months to process.
However, priority processing may be available for certain applicants from countries with active agreements with Canada.
Is There an End Date for the Francophone Mobility Program?
As of now, the Francophone Mobility Program is ongoing with no announced end date. However, policies may change, and applicants are encouraged to check the official IRCC website for updates.
FAQs About the Francophone Mobility Program
1. What is the Francophone Mobility Program?
The Francophone Mobility Program is a work permit program under Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP) that allows French-speaking foreign workers to get a job in Canada outside Quebec without requiring an LMIA.
2. Who is eligible for the Francophone category?
To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate French proficiency (CLB 5 or higher), have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer outside Quebec, and apply for a work permit.
3. Who is eligible for the International Mobility Program?
The International Mobility Program (IMP) includes various work permit programs, including the Francophone Mobility Program. It is for foreign workers who do not require an LMIA to work in Canada.
4. What is the difference between the LMIA and the International Mobility Program?
| Criteria | Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) | International Mobility Program (IMP) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Ensures that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian job market. | Facilitates the hiring of foreign workers without the need for an LMIA. |
| Employer Requirement | Employer must prove no Canadian is available for the job. | Employer does not need to prove labor market impact. |
| Processing Time | Longer processing time due to assessment requirements. | Faster processing as no LMIA is needed. |
| Application Complexity | More complex due to labor market proof requirements. | Simpler and streamlined process. |
| Examples of Eligible Workers | Temporary foreign workers where no Canadians are available. | Francophone Mobility Program, intra-company transferees, CUSMA professionals. |
| Job Market Impact | Designed to protect Canadian workers and job opportunities. | Encourages foreign talent for cultural and economic benefits. |
Conclusion
The Francophone Mobility Program is an excellent opportunity for French-speaking foreign workers to work in Canada without the need for an LMIA.
By meeting the eligibility requirements, securing a valid job offer, and demonstrating French language proficiency, applicants can take advantage of this streamlined work permit process.
