Canada is launching a new pilot program on August 26 aimed at attracting Francophone international students by offering a direct pathway to permanent residency upon graduation. As part of Canada's Francophone immigration strategy, the initiative seeks to boost the French-speaking population outside Quebec, which has declined significantly over the years. This program is tailored to students primarily from Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, offering unique exemptions and financial flexibility to make the study permit process more accessible.
Participants in the program will benefit from government-funded settlement services during their studies and can apply for permanent residency after obtaining their diploma or degree. Their spouses are also eligible to join them in Canada. While the pilot program has a target of 2,300 applications for its first year, it is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Francophone communities across several Canadian provinces, including British Columbia, Ontario, and Nova Scotia.
This initiative represents a significant opportunity for Francophone students to build long-term futures in Canada, contributing to the country's dynamic cultural and linguistic diversity.