Canada Raises Francophone Immigration Targets
Canada has announced higher targets for welcoming French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec over the next several years. This confirms that Francophone immigration will continue to play an important role in Canada’s long-term immigration strategy.
Canada’s New Francophone Immigration Targets
The federal government plans to increase the proportion of French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec to:
| Year | Target |
|---|---|
| 2026 | 9% |
| 2027 | 9.5% |
| 2028 | 10.5% |
Canada has also stated its intention to increase this target to 12% by 2029.
These targets indicate a continued commitment to attracting more French-speaking immigrants across Canada.
What Does This Mean for TEF Canada Candidates?
A higher Francophone immigration target does not mean that passing TEF Canada automatically leads to permanent residence.
However, obtaining a valid TEF Canada result can strengthen an applicant’s Express Entry profile.
Candidates who achieve NCLC 7 or higher in all four French language skills may become eligible for French-language category-based Express Entry draws.
The four required language skills are:
- Listening
- Speaking
- Reading
- Writing
Important: Candidates must reach NCLC 7 in all four sections. If even one section falls below NCLC 7, they may not qualify for the French-language category.
Can French Language Results Increase CRS Points?
Yes.
Applicants who obtain NCLC 7 or higher in all four French skills may receive additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points.
25 Additional CRS Points
Candidates may receive 25 extra CRS points if:
- They do not have eligible English language results; or
- Their English level is CLB 4 or lower.
50 Additional CRS Points
Candidates may receive 50 extra CRS points if they also achieve:
- CLB 5 or higher in all four English language skills.
These bonus points can significantly improve an applicant’s competitiveness in the Express Entry pool.
Why Take TEF Canada?
TEF Canada is one of the official French language tests accepted for Canadian immigration.
For immigration purposes, candidates must complete all four test sections:
- Reading
- Listening
- Writing
- Speaking
A strong TEF Canada score may help candidates:
- Qualify for French-language Express Entry draws
- Increase their CRS score
- Expand immigration opportunities outside Quebec
- Add French language results to an existing English-language Express Entry profile
French does not need to be the applicant’s first language. What matters is achieving the required official test scores.
Does a Higher Immigration Target Mean an Easier Invitation?
Not necessarily.
Although Canada plans to admit more French-speaking immigrants, applicants must still:
- Meet the eligibility requirements of an Express Entry program;
- Achieve competitive CRS scores; and
- Compete with other qualified candidates in the Express Entry pool.
In other words, TEF Canada provides an advantage—but it does not guarantee an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
For many candidates, the most important objective is to achieve NCLC 7 in all four language skills. Adequate preparation—and allowing enough time for a possible retake—can greatly improve the chances of success.
Take Your Official TEF Canada Exam at CSA Montréal
CSA Montréal is an official TEF Canada examination centre located in downtown Montreal.
We offer regular TEF Canada exam sessions throughout the year.