As Canada implements significant reductions in immigration levels, the Federal Government is making a notable exception for French-speaking immigrants settling outside Quebec. Prime Minister Mark Carney has raised the francophone immigration target to an ambitious 12% of all permanent residents admitted outside Quebec by 2029, up from the previous 4.4% goal that took 19 years to achieve. This strategic initiative aims to counter the declining demographic weight of francophone communities, which has dropped from 6.1% in 1971 to 3.5% in 2021. While overall permanent resident admissions will be limited to 395,000 in 2025, the government is actively promoting francophone immigration through specialized programs and express entry draws for French speakers.
The Federal Government boosts Francophone immigration despite overall cuts, targeting 12% by 2029
