Francophone Mobility Program – No LMIA Required

 

The Francophone Mobility Program offers a unique opportunity for employers to hire international talent without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This streamlining allows foreign workers to take on roles outside of primary agriculture, including operations involving agricultural machinery, animal care and breeding, and the planting and harvesting of crops, trees, sod, and more.

Why Choose the Francophone Mobility Program?

The Francophone Mobility Program presents an excellent pathway for French-speaking foreign workers to work in Canada (outside Quebec). Designed to promote linguistic and cultural diversity, this program offers numerous benefits for both employers and workers. Here’s what makes it exceptional:

• No LMIA Required: Unlike standard work permits, this program operates under the International Mobility Program, eliminating the need for an LMIA. Employers are not required to prove recruitment efforts or training for Canadians or permanent residents. Additionally, the $1,000 LMIA processing fee is waived.
• Inclusive Eligibility: Workers of any nationality or age are welcome to apply, with no restrictions based on nationality, unlike the International Experience Canada (IEC) program.
• Flexible Language Requirements: While the program encourages French-speaking workers, the job itself does not have to require French communication.
• Wide Range of Occupations: All TEER skill levels (0–5) are eligible, except for primary agricultural roles.
• Policy-Based Eligibility: The program’s requirements now align with public policy goals focused on Canada’s economic and academic needs rather than cultural or social benefits.

Who Is Eligible for the Francophone Mobility Program?

To qualify for the program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Job Offer: Obtain a valid job offer with a competitive wage from an employer outside of Quebec.
2. LMIA Exemption Code: Ensure the employer requests the LMIA exemption code for the job offer and work permit application. Employers must also pay the $230 compliance fee.
3. Language Proficiency (if needed): If language skills are unclear in the application, the Test d’Évaluation du Français (TEF) may be required. A Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) score of 5 or higher is necessary.

Employer Requirements for the Program

1. Valid Job Offer: Employers must issue a job offer at a fair market wage within the province of employment.
2. LMIA Exemption Code: Employers must request the LMIA exemption code and pay the $230 compliance fee for the application.
3. Operational Proof: Employers need to provide evidence of their business operations, payroll, and income to justify the hire.
4. Work Location Details: Employers must specify the exact location where the worker will perform their duties.

Work Permit Duration

The work permit duration under the C16 LMIA exemption code is determined by the sooner of these two factors:

• The expiration date of the foreign worker’s passport, or
• The length of employment specified in the job offer.

Options for Family Members and Dependents

Family members of applicants under the Francophone Mobility Program can also benefit:

• Dependent Children: Eligible to apply for study permits.
• Spouses/Common-Law Partners: Eligible for an open work permit valid for as long as the principal applicant’s work permit.

How to Apply for the Francophone Mobility Program

1. Find Employment:
   • Search for job opportunities through specialized platforms or LinkedIn in regions outside Quebec.
   • Tip: Use filters to find TEER 0-5 roles that suit your skills. Note that agricultural jobs are not eligible under this program.
2. Prepare Your Documents:
   • Draft a Canadian-style resume and cover letter that highlight your fluency in French and relevant experience.
   • Tip: Include specific achievements in your work history to enhance your application.
3. Submit Your Application:
   • Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying.
   • Provide the necessary documents, such as language proficiency proof, job offer details, and qualifications.
   • Tip: Double-check your application for accuracy to avoid delays or rejections.

Renewing Your Work Permit

• Applications for renewal can be submitted either online or by mail. Work permits previously issued under the discontinued “Significant Benefit – Francophone destined to work outside Quebec” category can be renewed through the Francophone Mobility Program.

Need Help?

Have you faced application refusals in the past? Don’t worry! With over a decade of experience, our team specializes in handling previously refused cases. Although we don’t provide LMIA job placements, we assist individuals who already have valid job offers. Our tailored approach addresses specific concerns raised in previous refusals, leveraging case law and precedent to achieve a high success rate.

At Waymark Immigration, our expert visa specialists are ready to guide you through every step of the application process. Let us help you start your journey today!