French is one of Canada’s two official languages and can play a key role in the immigration process. If you’re considering moving to Canada, knowing French can greatly increase your chances of success. Here are five reasons why you should start learning French to immigrate to Canada.

1. Additional points in the Express Entry system

For many Express Entry candidates, a lack of points can be a barrier to immigration. Knowing French gives you the opportunity to earn additional points in the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which can significantly improve your score. Knowing a second official language can earn you up to 24 additional points.

2. Bonus for a high level of French

If your French level is CLB 7 or higher, you can earn up to 50 additional points in Express Entry. These bonus points can significantly increase your chances of successfully receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

3. Category-Based Draws for Francophones

With a French language level of CLB 7 or higher, you have the opportunity to participate in the Express Entry rounds for French-speaking candidates. The cut-off score for these rounds is generally lower than for the regular rounds, making this option even more attractive to candidates with French language skills.

4. Provincial streams and federal pilot programs

Some Canadian provinces, such as Ontario and New Brunswick, actively invite French-speaking candidates to apply for permanent residence through special provincial streams. Knowledge of French can also be a significant advantage when applying for permanent residence through federal programs such as Francophone Community Immigration Pilot (FCIP).

5. Working without LMIA – Francophone Mobility Work Permit

If you need to renew your work permit in Canada but are unable to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), a CLB level of 5 in French speaking and listening will qualify you for a Work Permit through the Francophone Mobility program. This program allows you to work in Canada without the need for LMIA under any TEER category.

 

✨ Bonus: Francophones earn more

Francophones in Canada often earn more than their English-speaking counterparts due to advantages in employment opportunities and career advancement. In addition, knowledge of French is a requirement for many government jobs in Canada.

 

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"Important: Immigration requirements are constantly changing. The information on this page is current at the time of publication."