Alternate Pathways to Permanent Residence (PR) for Quebec Temporary Residents

Francophone temporary residents in Quebec seeking Canadian permanent residence (PR) can explore federal pilot programs as alternative pathways, especially if they are open to settling outside Quebec.

Key Quebec PR Streams on Hold

• Regular Skilled Worker Program: Being replaced by the Skilled Worker Selection Program on November 29.
• Quebec Experience Program – Graduates: Temporarily paused

Alternate Federal Pilot Programs

The following federal pilot programs provide opportunities for Francophone temporary residents:

Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP)

Launched on August 26, the FMCSP provides a pathway for French-speaking international students to study and settle permanently in Canada (outside Quebec).

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be citizens of an eligible Francophone country.
• Have a letter of acceptance from a participating DLI indicating FMCSP participation.
• Enroll in a post-secondary, full-time program:
  • Minimum two years in length.
  • Leads to a degree or diploma.
  • Conducted primarily in French (more than 50% of classes in French).
• Demonstrate French proficiency at NCLC level 5 or higher.
• Provide proof of sufficient funds, medical exam, and police clearance (if required).

Application Process

• Gather required documents:
  • Acceptance letter from a DLI.
  • Proof of financial support.
  • Language test results.
  • Medical and police certificates (if applicable).
• Create an IRCC account to submit the application, indicating FMCSP under exceptions.
• Pay the processing fee and upload the necessary documents.

Benefits

• Settlement services upon arrival.
• Open Work Permits (OWPs) for spouses or dependents.

Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative

The Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative, first introduced in 2018, has been renewed as a key feature of Canada’s Francophone immigration strategy in 2024. It facilitates the settlement of French-speaking newcomers in designated communities across Canada (outside Quebec) through comprehensive support and funding.

Participating Communities

This initiative includes 24 Francophone and Acadian communities in the following regions:

• Alberta
• British Columbia
• Manitoba
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Nunavut
• Ontario
• Prince Edward Island
• Saskatchewan
• Yukon

Community Support

These communities provide:

• Employment assistance.
• Language training.
• Cultural integration events.
• Settlement plans tailored to newcomers.

Further eligibility updates for this initiative are expected soon.

New Brunswick Critical Worker Pilot (NBCWP)

The NBCWP is an employer-driven pilot offering skilled workers pathways to PR, with significant settlement support provided by participating employers.

Eligibility Requirements

Candidates must:

• Reside in New Brunswick for at least 12 months before applying.
• Hold a valid job offer from a participating employer.
• Work in positions offering competitive wages.
• Demonstrate intent to settle in the province.

Application Process

• Secure a job offer from a participating employer.
• Create an Expression of Interest (EOI) in the NBPNP pool.
• Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for provincial nomination.
• Submit a settlement plan and pay the processing fee.
• Receive provincial nomination and apply for PR via IRCC.

Participating Employers

• Cooke Aquaculture Inc.
• Groupe Savoie Inc.
• Imperial Manufacturing.
• McCain Foods, among others.

Simplified Comparison Chart

These programs provide Francophone residents of Quebec viable alternatives to achieve PR by exploring opportunities across Canada.