Francophones seeking pathways to Canadian permanent residence (PR) may find opportunities through Canada's immigration pilot programs.
International students and skilled workers in Quebec have seen two major PR streams put on hold:
- The Regular Skilled Worker Program (along with the Skilled Worker Selection Program, which is set to replace it on November 29)
- The Quebec Experience Program – Graduates
Alternate Pathways to Permanent Residency for Quebec Temporary Residents: Federal Immigration Pilot Programs
Temporary residents of Quebec who are open to relocating to other provinces may want to explore Canada’s federal immigration pilot programs, many of which are designed to support French-speaking immigrants.
Here are some key pilot programs to consider:
Pilot Program | Regional Placement | Ideal For
Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot
Location dependent on approved Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
French-speaking students pursuing post-secondary studies outside Quebec.
Post-secondary students from eligible Francophone countries.
Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative
Communities in:
British Columbia
Manitoba
New Brunswick
Nova Scotia
Ontario
Saskatchewan
Additional communities across Canada.
Francophone immigrants accepted into a designated Francophone community outside Quebec.
New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot
Various regions in New Brunswick (location based on employer)
Skilled workers in specialized fields such as:
Agriculture
Aquaculture
Manufacturing
Transportation
Forestry
Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP)
Launched on August 26, Canada introduced the FMCSP to attract French-speaking students to minority Francophone communities outside of Quebec and provide them with a pathway to permanent residency after graduation.
Students accepted into this program may be eligible to apply for PR after completing their program if they meet the following conditions:
They are residing in Canada (outside Quebec) at the time of their PR application.
They hold valid temporary status in Canada during the application process.
They have completed a qualifying degree or diploma through the FMCSP.
Eligibility Criteria for FMCSP Applicants:
Must be a citizen of an eligible Francophone country.
Must have an acceptance letter from a participating Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that confirms their application under the FMCSP.
Must meet specific study program requirements, including:
Full-time post-secondary studies in French (at least 50% of classes in French).
Program duration of two years or more, leading to a degree or diploma.
Must demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover tuition and living expenses (for themselves and any accompanying family members).
Must provide a medical exam and police certificate (if required).
French language proficiency must meet at least NCLC level 5.
Application Process for the FMCSP:
Submit the required documents, including proof of financial support, a valid language test (showing French proficiency), medical exam, and police certificates.
Create an IRCC account and submit the application online, using the standard study permit application form.
Once approved, successful applicants may also be eligible for open work permits for their spouse or dependents.
Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative
Launched in 2018 and renewed in 2024, this initiative aims to help French-speaking newcomers settle in communities outside Quebec. Participating communities offer settlement services such as employment support, language training, and community-building events. They also receive funding from IRCC to enhance these services.
Currently, 24 Francophone and Acadian communities across Canada participate, including those in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario, and others.
Details regarding eligibility under the updated initiative will be announced soon.
New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP)
The NBCWP is designed to help skilled workers settle in New Brunswick through employer-driven pathways. Participating employers provide settlement support, including housing, transportation, language training, and on-the-job skills training.
Eligible Employers:
Cooke Aquaculture Inc.
Groupe Savoie Inc.
Groupe Westco
Imperial Manufacturing
J.D. Irving Ltd.
McCain Foods
Eligibility Requirements for Candidates:
Reside in New Brunswick for at least 12 months before applying.
Have a valid job offer from one of the participating employers.
The job must offer a competitive wage comparable to the provincial wage structure.
Candidates must demonstrate intent to remain in New Brunswick long-term.
Application Process for NBCWP:
Accept an employment offer from a participating employer.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP).
If invited, submit a provincial nomination application with a settlement plan.
Once nominated, submit a permanent residency application to IRCC.
If successful, applicants will receive permanent residency status, with support services provided throughout the process.
These pilot programs offer exciting opportunities for Quebec temporary residents looking to gain permanent residency while settling in other parts of Canada. By pursuing one of these federal immigration pathways, French-speaking individuals can build a future in vibrant communities across the country.
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