The Government of Canada has announced that it has exceeded its Francophone immigration target for 2025, with 8.9% of permanent residents admitted outside Quebec being French-speaking. This marks the fourth consecutive year that Canada has surpassed its target, which was set at 8.5% for 2025.
The achievement is a result of the government’s efforts to increase Francophone immigration, including the implementation of measures such as the French-language proficiency category in the Express Entry system, the Francophone Mobility program, and the Welcoming Francophone Communities initiative. These initiatives aim to support the growth and development of Francophone communities across Canada, while addressing labor needs and promoting the French language.
As part of its 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan, the government plans to continue increasing its targets for French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec. Starting in 2026, 5,000 federal selection spaces will be reserved for provinces and territories to designate French-speaking immigrants, in addition to the annual Provincial Nominee Program allocations. This initiative is expected to help reduce the shortage of Francophone and bilingual workers in Canada.
The government’s goal is to reach 12% of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec by 2029, with intermediate targets of 9% in 2026, 9.5% in 2027, and 10.5% in 2028. This aligns with the government’s priorities announced in Budget 2025, which emphasize the importance of attracting top global talent, expanding the economy, and responding to workforce needs.
The success of Canada’s Francophone immigration efforts is a result of collaboration between the government, provinces, territories, and community representatives. The government will continue to work with stakeholders to promote Francophone immigration and support the growth and development of Francophone communities across Canada.
Key Highlights:
– Canada exceeds 2025 Francophone immigration target for the fourth consecutive year
– 8.9% of permanent residents admitted outside Quebec are French-speaking
– Government plans to increase targets for French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec
– 5,000 federal selection spaces reserved for provinces and territories to designate French-speaking immigrants starting in 2026
– Goal to reach 12% of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec by 2029
