Some candidates will not be able to move to Quebec without French
The province is making changes to two immigration programs.
Entrepreneurs who do not speak French will not be able to immigrate to the province of Quebec. The region's Minister of Immigration, Christine Fréchette, announced the intention to suspend applications for permanent residency from candidates who do not speak French as of December 28.
The changes will affect participants in the following programs:
- Entrepreneur Program (Stream 1);
- Self-Employed Worker Program.
Now only entrepreneurs who can demonstrate a good level of oral proficiency in French will be able to apply for immigration. There will be no limit on the number of applications from French-speaking participants.
According to Quebec authorities, such measures are necessary to preserve the French language in the province. In addition, the government intends to launch more programs to attract businesspeople with knowledge of French.
Entrepreneur Stream 1 requires candidates to start a business in Quebec and receive support from a business accelerator, business incubator, or university entrepreneurship center. The Self-Employed Worker Program requires a net worth of $100,000 CAD or more and a deposit of $25,000 CAD or more.
The changes did not affect Quebec's Investor Program.
