Good news for those who know French

Good news for those who know French

This article contains good news for those who know French. The Canadian government is making changes to its Express Entry system to prioritize francophone immigrants in order to support economic growth and strengthen francophone minority communities across the country. The new category-based selection invites candidates with relevant work experience or French language skills to apply for permanent residence. The goal of this initiative is to address the labor shortage and promote the French language in communities outside of Quebec. The government believes that French-speaking immigration contributes to the uniqueness of these communities in terms of language, population and economy.

Category-based selection rounds are held alongside public invitational rounds throughout the year. The Ministers of Immigration and Official Languages emphasize the importance of this milestone in recognizing the contributions and cultural diversity created by French-speaking communities.

The Express Entry system serves as Canada’s primary application management system for permanent immigration. Changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act in 2022 made it possible to select immigrants based on economic preferences and knowledge of the French language. It is important to note that Quebec has its own immigration levels according to the Canada-Quebec agreement.

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July 7, 2023 – Ottawa – The French language is an integral part of Canadian identity. It is our shared responsibility to create a Canada where everyone can flourish in the official language of their choice. Given the importance of increasing the vitality of Francophone minority communities across the country, Canada’s Express Entry system is now designed to provide a simple and efficient path for French-speaking immigrants. By prioritizing the invitation of French-speaking newcomers, Canada aims to support economic growth through francophone immigration outside of Quebec while enriching and strengthening these communities.

On May 31, Minister Fraser announced new changes to Express Entry through category selection. These changes help address the labor shortage that supports a specific economic objective by inviting candidates with specific work experience or French language ability to apply for permanent residency.

Today, the Minister, the Honorable Jeanette Petitpas Tayloroisier of Official Languages, on behalf of the Honorable Sean Fraser, Minister for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced the first round of French language selection by category. This focus on French-speaking newcomers will help promote the French language and address labor shortages in communities outside of Quebec.

Selection by category reflects Canada’s commitment to attracting top global talent and helping to meet the need for Francophone and bilingual workers to support the economy, while recognizing the rich cultural and linguistic diversity of the communities in which French-speaking newcomers contribute. amplifies; strengthens; intensifies. Alongside the general invitational rounds, these category-based selection rounds will continue throughout the year, with more details to be announced in the coming weeks.

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Quotations

“Today marks an important milestone in our government’s unwavering commitment to embracing, promoting and protecting linguistic diversity and inclusiveness. This historic step shows our appreciation for the valuable contributions and cultural richness brought about by French-speaking communities.

By opening up new avenues and opportunities, we will not only strengthen our ties with global francophones, but build a stronger and more vibrant Canada for all. The contribution of French immigration is even more significant, as it enriches the linguistic, demographic and economic uniqueness of French-speaking societies.

Honorable Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Sean Fraser,

The French language is an integral and historic part of Canada’s rich cultural and linguistic landscape. This important milestone highlights the immeasurable contributions and cultural diversity made by French-speaking communities. Through new opportunities for Francophone immigration, we continue to strengthen the vitality of communities across Canada and respond to their unique realities. Together, we will continue to promote and preserve Canada’s linguistic and social diversity.”

• Honorable Minister Jeanette Pettypas Taylor, Minister of Official Languages

Immediate facts

Express Entry is Canada’s flagship program management system for those seeking permanent immigration through the federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, the federal Skilled Occupation Class, and part of the Provincial Nominee Program.

In June 2022, the Government of Canada introduced changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to allow immigrants to be selected based on key characteristics that support economic priorities, such as specific work experience or knowledge of the French language.

On 31 May 2023, Minister Fraser announced the first launch of Category Based Selection, a new process to welcome skilled newcomers with work experience in priority occupations as permanent residents.

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These categories were determined after extensive consultations with provincial and regional partners, shareholders and people, as well as examining the needs of the labor market. The complete list of eligible jobs for the new categories is available on our website.

Immigration accounts for nearly 100 percent of Canada’s labor force growth and helps fill labor shortages in key sectors.

Under the Canada-Quebec Agreement, Quebec establishes its own immigration levels. From 2018 to 2022, admissions under the high-skilled federal program will account for between 34 and 40 per cent of all francophone admissions outside of Quebec.