Canada Boosts Francophone Immigration Outside Quebec with New Investments

The Government of Canada, through Budget 2025, aims to focus immigration efforts on addressing labour shortages and supporting the growth of Francophone minority communities outside Quebec. To advance this goal, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced an investment of approximately $3.6 million for four projects funded by the Francophone Immigration Support Program (FISP). These initiatives target recruitment and integration of Francophone and bilingual immigrants, particularly to strengthen sectors such as health care, education, and early childhood. Canada has set progressive targets for French-speaking permanent residents admitted outside Quebec, aiming for 9% in 2026, 9.5% in 2027, and 10.5% by 2028, moving towards a 12% admission rate by 2029. These efforts are complemented by broader commitments to attract global talent and support economic growth nationwide. IRCC’s recent annual review confirms steady progress toward these objectives, including expanded community involvement and enhanced promotional activities. While the news release did not detail Express Entry draws specifically, the government’s focus on recruiting skilled Francophone immigrants aligns with ongoing immigration pathways such as Express Entry, which remain crucial tools for meeting labour and demographic goals. For more information on Francophone immigration initiatives and related programs, IRCC’s resources and support mechanisms remain accessible.