Francophone Mobility Program
The Francophone Mobility Program is an LMIA-exempt work permit pathway designed to encourage French-speaking foreign nationals to work and settle in communities outside Quebec.
Under LMIA exemption code C16, eligible employers can hire qualified French-speaking workers without going through the regular LMIA approval process.
Generally, applicants must have a genuine job offer from an eligible Canadian employer outside Quebec, demonstrate the required French-language proficiency, meet the qualifications of the offered position, and satisfy Canada's work permit and admissibility requirements.
English proficiency is not a separate mandatory language requirement under the Francophone Mobility exemption. However, employers may require English communication skills depending on the nature of the position, customer interaction, and workplace responsibilities.
Applicants must demonstrate at least NCLC Level 5 in French speaking and listening. Reading and writing scores are not required to meet the specific Francophone Mobility language threshold.
Not necessarily. IRCC accepts various forms of evidence of French-speaking and listening ability, including qualifying language test results or educational documents demonstrating French-language instruction.
Official test results, such as TEF Canada or TCF Canada, can provide clear supporting evidence.
Most occupations classified under NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 may qualify. The main occupational exclusion is primary agriculture jobs in TEER 4 and 5.
Yes. Restaurant workers may qualify, including food service supervisors, cooks, kitchen helpers, food counter attendants and other eligible occupations. Applicants must demonstrate that they are qualified for the position offered.
The Francophone Mobility Program does not impose one universal minimum number of years of work experience. However, applicants must demonstrate that they can perform the offered job. Employers may require relevant experience, training or professional qualifications.
Yes. An eligible Canadian employer must offer you employment and complete the required Employer Portal submission before you apply for the employer-specific work permit.
The duration depends on the employment offer, passport validity and IRCC's assessment. A work permit may be issued for up to three years in appropriate circumstances, but a three-year duration is not guaranteed.
Yes, if you meet the applicable requirements for submitting a work permit application from within Canada. Applicants outside Canada may also apply.
The process generally involves:
Securing a genuine job offer from a Canadian employer outside Quebec.
Demonstrating French speaking and listening proficiency at NCLC 5 or higher.
Having the employer submit the LMIA-exempt offer through IRCC's Employer Portal using exemption code C16.
Receiving the Employer Portal offer number and signed employment agreement.
Submitting the work permit application with supporting documents.
Completing biometrics, medical examinations or other requirements, where applicable.
Awaiting IRCC's decision
Yes. A spouse or common-law partner may apply to accompany the principal applicant. However, eligibility for a spousal open work permit depends on the applicable family work permit rules, including the principal worker's occupation and remaining work authorization.
No. Francophone Mobility is a temporary work permit pathway, not a permanent residence program. However, eligible workers may subsequently qualify for Express Entry, a Provincial Nominee Program or another permanent residence pathway.
Yes. Qualifying Canadian work experience may help applicants meet eligibility requirements under certain economic immigration programs, including the Canadian Experience Class. Eligibility depends on the occupation, authorized employment and other program requirements.
Global Immigration and Placement Consultancy Services Ltd. (GIPCS) assists eligible French-speaking candidates and Canadian employers with Francophone Mobility eligibility assessments, work permit applications, documentation, employer compliance procedures and immigration representation.
Our team works with employers and candidates to support accurate, complete and professionally prepared applications.