If you’re a French speaker looking to immigrate to Canada, you may be wondering what the process is like. Canada is a bilingual country, which means that there are many opportunities for French speakers. To encourage the continued growth of francophone immigration, the Canadian government has set a goal of 4.4 percent of all french-speaking immigrants settling outside Quebec by 2023.
One of the reasons why immigration to French-speaking Canada has increased is because of declining populations across the country. Statistics Canada reports that in 2021, only 19.2% of Canadians predominantly speak French at home. This number is down from 20% in 2016, and from 21.3% in 2006. The proportion of French speakers has declined in most regions, including Quebec.
Canada is a country that attracts French-speaking immigrants. This is because Canada makes it possible for even inexperienced French speakers to immigrate and find a new start in their careers. As the world becomes more international, Canada has invested in immigration incentives that target French speakers specifically. Here are three of the best places to live in Canada if you speak French:
1. Ontario
Ontario is the most popular province for newcomers to move to in Canada. In 2021, Ontario received about half of all new Canadian permanent residents. It also has the largest francophone population outside of Québec.
Ontario has created a specific French-speaking immigration stream for French speakers who are good at English. If you qualify, you can apply to Ontario’s Express Entry French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream. This stream lets qualified French speakers live and work in Ontario.
Toronto is Ontario’s most populous and most visited city. Immigrants from all over the world choose to settle in Toronto, as it is home to Canada’s largest French-speaking population. More than 60,000 people speak French or French and another language at home; 239,000 individuals have knowledge of some form of French.
2. New Brunswick
As Canada’s only officially bilingual province, New Brunswick is the place to be for francophone immigration. One-third of people living in New Brunswick speak French, and there are francophone communities in every corner of the province.
New Brunswick is a beautiful Maritime province known for its picturesque mountains, rivers, forests, and other natural sights. Nature lovers will enjoy all the fun spots to explore in the area- from camping and hiking to biking on the trails, there’s something for everyone to do!
One of the best places in New Brunswick for francophone newcomers is Haut-Saint-Jean. Haut-Saint-Jean offers scenic views, festivals, and a rich francophone culture. Over 90 percent of the 98,000 residents speak French as a first language.
The Canadian government has selected Haut-Saint-Jean as a Welcoming Francophone Community to receive funding for programs designed to help French-speaking newcomers feel welcomed into Francophone minority communities.
3. Quebec
It’s not much of a surprise that Quebec tops the list: It’s the only French-speaking province in Canada, as well as the one with the highest population of French speakers. With 75 percent of Quebecers speaking French first and 95 percent having some level of French proficiency, it is no wonder that it is such a popular province for francophone immigrants coming to Canada. Although Quebec is known predominantly for its francophone culture, it also boasts exceptional cultural activities, history, and breathtaking nature.
One popular destination for immigrants, both within and outside of Quebec, in Montreal. It has many areas that are desirable to people from different places around the world. Not only is it the most populous city in Quebec; but also it’s the third most popular city among newcomers.
Montreal is North America’s most popular host city for international events, which makes it Canada’s most culturally diverse city. You’ll find top-tier music and comedy festivals year-round in Montreal.
Montreal is the unofficial bilingual city of Canada and hosts many opportunities for bilingual immigrants and families. From shopping to school, it’s easy to find French-speaking areas that are perfect for improving your language skills.
Best way to immigrate to Canada as a French speaker?
To immigrate to Canada as a French speaker there are many different options available.
If you’re looking to study, there are dozens of prestigious institutions across Canada that offer quality bilingual education and programs designed to suit your needs. Studying in Canada also tends to be more affordable than in other popular destinations such as the United States.
If you want to work in Canada, applying for the Working Holiday Visa is the best option. With an increased labour shortage, many companies are turning to immigrants to meet labour demands. If you want to stand out from the other applicants, make sure you have French proficiency.
Once you’ve decided to apply for Canadian permanent residency, you can explore your options. One such option is Express Entry, in which you apply from your country of residence. If you’re not sure whether or not you want to make your immigration permanent yet, there’s nothing stopping you from visiting Canada and seeing how it feels.
If you’re looking for immigration services, Cougar Immigration is here to help. All our cases are handled by knowledgeable and experienced immigration professionals. Our professionals include lawyers and licensed paralegals with years of experience who work hand in hand to protect your rights.
Schedule your 1-on-1 consultation now or call us at 1-888-317-5770.
