Maple News reports that Quebec will introduce a new French language requirement for certain temporary foreign workers starting December 17, 2025. The policy mandates that foreign nationals with at least three years of work experience in Quebec must demonstrate spoken French proficiency equivalent to Level 4 on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) scale.
This new regulation will impact those applying for a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and a work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). Language proficiency will become a prerequisite for these applications, serving as part of Quebec’s broader immigration framework to promote French language integration and preserve its francophone identity.
However, transition measures are in place for foreign workers already residing in the province. Those who are in Quebec under the TFWP as of the implementation date will have until December 17, 2028, to meet the French language requirement. Until then, they may continue extending their work permits and applying for CAQs without speaking French.
Quebec has also outlined specific exemptions for workers in certain roles. These include temporary foreign workers in agricultural occupations, individuals working for political organizations representing foreign states, and employees of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) officially recognized by the Quebec government. These groups will not be subject to the French language requirement.
To work in Quebec under the TFWP, foreign nationals must first obtain a CAQ from Quebec’s immigration ministry. This document is required prior to applying for a federal work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Applicants will also need a valid Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to complete their application.
The policy is part of Quebec’s strategy to manage the province’s temporary resident population, including both international students and foreign workers, amid concerns about housing availability and affordability. The initiative also underscores Quebec’s commitment to preserving French as a cornerstone of its cultural identity.
By prioritizing French-speaking workers, the province aims to ensure better integration outcomes for newcomers and maintain its distinct linguistic heritage. The new requirement may also influence the types of temporary foreign workers entering Quebec, shaping the makeup of the province’s labour force in the coming years.
Maple News will continue to monitor implementation updates and provide guidance on how workers and employers can prepare for the upcoming changes.