The Francophone Mobility Program allows French-speaking foreign workers to work in Canada outside of Quebec. It helps employers hire skilled Francophone workers without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Benefits of the Francophone Mobility Program
- No LMIA required (faster hiring process)
- Easier work permit approval for skilled workers
- Opportunity to gain Canadian work experience
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) through Express Entry, PNP, or other programs
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, you must:
- Be fluent in French (minimum CLB 7 in speaking and listening)
- Have a valid job offer in any skilled occupation (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3) outside of Quebec
- Meet work permit requirements (such as proof of funds and medical exams, if required)
As of June 15, 2023, the program includes all TEER categories.
How to Apply for the Francophone Mobility Program
Step 1: Find a Job in Canada
Search for jobs in Canada (outside Quebec) through:
- Job Bank Canada (https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/)
- Company career pages
- Recruitment agencies
Ensure the employer is willing to hire a French-speaking worker.
Step 2: Get a Job Offer
Your employer must provide a valid job offer letter with details like:
- Job title and duties
- Salary and benefits
- Work location (must be outside Quebec)
Step 3: Employer Submits Offer on IRCC Portal
Your employer must:
- Create an Employer Portal account
- Submit the job offer through IRCC’s Employer Portal
- Pay the $230 employer compliance fee
The employer will receive an “Offer of Employment Number,” which you’ll need for your work permit application.
Step 4: Apply for a Work Permit
Once your employer submits the job offer, you can apply for a work permit online through IRCC. You’ll need:
- Job offer number from the employer
- Proof of French proficiency (e.g., TEF or TCF test results)
- Passport & travel history
- Medical exam (if required)
- Police clearance certificate (if required)
- Proof of funds (if applicable)
Step 5: Wait for Approval
Processing time varies by country but generally takes between two to eight weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive a work permit valid for up to two years.
Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR)
After gaining Canadian work experience, you can apply for PR through:
- Express Entry (CEC or FSWP)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP)
- Agri-Food Pilot (for agriculture workers)