Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), in collaboration with Destination Canada, is organizing a virtual job fair this November for French-speaking and bilingual professionals with experience in tourism, hospitality, and culinary sectors. The event targets job opportunities across Canada, excluding the province of Quebec.
The virtual fair will run from November 13 to 15, 2024, between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. Central European Time (CET). Participation is free but limited to invited applicants. Job seekers must first register between September 23 and October 27, 2024, and submit a bilingual (French-English) resume in Canadian format to be considered.
Once accepted, candidates will gain access to online networking sessions with Canadian employers hiring in their field. They will also be able to apply directly to job openings featured during the event. Detailed employer listings and available positions will be shared with registrants shortly before the fair.
The event includes interactive sessions with representatives from Francophone communities outside Quebec. Attendees will receive valuable insights into regional support services, lifestyle, and immigration pathways specifically designed for French-speaking newcomers. This information is particularly beneficial for those looking to settle in minority Francophone communities across Canada.
Presentations will be delivered in French, while Q&A sessions will be conducted in both French and English to accommodate diverse participants. Additionally, attendees already residing in Canada under a valid work or study permit may be eligible for a special facilitated work permit through the federal Mobilité Francophone stream if they receive a job offer.
The event also includes informative conferences covering labor market trends in hospitality and tourism, as well as guidance on immigration procedures and settlement support for both temporary and permanent residence options in Canada.
This initiative reflects Canada’s broader strategy to boost Francophone immigration outside Quebec. Recent federal measures include increasing Francophone immigration targets—rising from 6% in 2024 to 8% by 2026—and launching direct pathways to permanent residence for Francophone international students. The government has also expanded the Welcoming Francophone Communities Initiative to include 14 communities dedicated to supporting French-speaking immigrants.
By prioritizing bilingual talent and offering specialized immigration pathways, Canada continues to reinforce its commitment to enriching cultural diversity and addressing labor shortages in key economic sectors.