The federal government has announced a $3.6 million investment to support four new projects aimed at boosting Francophone immigration outside Quebec, strengthening minority communities, and attracting top bilingual talent from around the world.
As part of Budget 2025, the Government of Canada is prioritizing immigration where it can have the greatest impact: addressing labour shortages, supporting key economic sectors, and promoting the growth of Francophone and Acadian communities. The Francophone Immigration Support Program (PAIF) will fund initiatives that facilitate the recruitment, promotion, and integration of Francophone and bilingual candidates, particularly in health, education, and early childhood sectors.
“By supporting these Francophone and Acadian communities, we are affirming Canada’s future and unique identity, for a stronger and more inclusive country,” said the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.
The four projects announced today include efforts to attract talent to Eastern Ontario, support international students, strengthen health system capacity, and foster connections between institutions and local communities. One initiative, led by the Association of Colleges and Universities of the Canadian Francophonie (ACUFC), will improve collaboration among institutions, community service providers, and IRCC, while generating new data to reduce barriers faced by international students in Francophone minority communities.
“Whether it’s attracting talent, supporting students, or building lasting community connections, these initiatives contribute to the economic and cultural vitality of Francophone minority communities across the country,” said the Honourable Mona Fortier, Member of Parliament for Ottawa – Vanier – Gloucester.
Key Facts:
- The 2026-2028 immigration levels plan targets 9% of admissions of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec in 2026 (30,267 admissions), rising to 10.5% in 2028 (35,175 admissions).
- Canada aims to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec to 12% of admissions by 2029.
- The Government has invested $25 million over five years in the Centre for Francophone Immigration Innovation (CIIF) to support PAIF projects and promote innovative Francophone immigration initiatives.
- Recent successes include achieving 7.2% of admissions of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec in 2024, increasing participation in the Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative from 14 to 24 communities, and funding several innovative projects through PAIF.
These investments reflect Canada’s ongoing commitment to Francophone immigration and its role in building vibrant, diverse communities while addressing regional labour market needs.