• By SLHub Reporter
• In IMMIGRATION
• Posted 28 Aug 2025

How to Extend Your Work Permit Under the Francophone Mobility Program (2025 Guide)

Introduction

The Francophone Mobility Program allows French-speaking foreign workers to obtain a Canadian work permit without a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), provided they work outside of Quebec. This program strengthens French-speaking minority communities across Canada and is a great opportunity for those seeking Canadian work experience and permanent residency.

This article will guide you through the requirements, extension process, benefits, and key updates for 2025 to help you successfully extend your Francophone Mobility work permit.

1. What is the Francophone Mobility Program?

• An LMIA-exempt program (exemption code C16) designed for employers hiring French-speaking workers outside Quebec.
• Objective: support Francophone minority communities and attract skilled workers.
• Applicable to jobs across most TEER categories (0–5), except primary agriculture jobs in TEER 4–5.

2. Who is Eligible?

• Work and live in any province or territory outside Quebec.
• Prove oral French proficiency at CLB/NCLC 5 or higher (language test, studies in French, or official documentation).
• Hold a valid job offer from a Canadian employer in an eligible TEER category.

3. How to Apply for an Extension

Employer’s role

• Submit the job offer through the Employer Portal using exemption code C16.
• Pay the $230 employer compliance fee.
• Provide the offer number to the worker.

Worker’s role

• Apply online through your IRCC account.
• Select “LMIA-exempt work permit.”
• Upload required documents (job offer, proof of French ability, passport, etc.).
• Pay government fees.

4. Duration and Renewal in 2025

• The permit length depends on your employment contract or passport validity.
• You may renew multiple times if you continue to meet program requirements.
• As of June 16, 2025, the temporary expansion of the program ended.
• Eligibility now reverts to TEER 0–3 jobs only and requires CLB 7 in French for new applications.

5. Family Benefits

• Spouses or common-law partners may be eligible for an open work permit.
• Dependent children can study in Canada, and those under 18 usually do not need a study permit.

6. Step-by-Step Recap to Extend

1. Secure a new valid job offer outside Quebec.
2. Employer submits the offer via the Employer Portal with code C16.
3. Submit your renewal application to IRCC with supporting documents.
4. Pay the required fees.
5. Await approval and continue working in Canada.

7. Why Extend Through Francophone Mobility?

• No LMIA required, saving time and cost.
• Faster processing compared to regular LMIA permits.
• Gain Canadian work experience to improve your profile for Express Entry and permanent residency.
• Support and integrate into Francophone communities outside Quebec.

Conclusion

Extending your work permit under the Francophone Mobility Program is one of the most straightforward ways for French-speaking professionals to continue building their career in Canada. While the 2025 update means stricter eligibility (TEER 0–3 and higher French requirements), it remains a powerful option to secure work authorization and strengthen your pathway to permanent residency.

Francophone Mobility work permit: How to apply

• 0
• 56