Immigrants to Canada are increasingly learning French as traditional paths to permanent residency become more challenging. This shift comes as Canada introduces a new French-language category in its immigration system, prioritizing French-speaking applicants. While some economists criticize this move, arguing it may hinder Canada’s ability to attract top talent in fields like computer science, government officials defend the policy. They cite Canada’s commitment to supporting francophone communities and fulfilling obligations under the Official Languages Act. This development has sparked debate about balancing economic productivity with cultural preservation in Canada’s immigration strategy.