Quebec Introduces Mandatory French Language Requirement for Foreign Workers Starting December 2025
The Quebec government has announced a major new policy that will significantly impact temporary foreign workers residing in the province. From December 17, 2025, all foreign nationals who have accumulated three or more years of work experience in Quebec under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) will be required to demonstrate spoken French proficiency at level 4 of the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) scale.
This new requirement highlights Quebec’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the use of the French language and preserve the province’s cultural identity while ensuring better integration of newcomers into Quebec society.
Key Highlights of the Policy
- Implementation Date: December 17, 2025
- Requirement: Spoken French at NCLC Level 4 or higher
- Applies To: Foreign workers under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) with three or more years of work experience in Quebec
- Purpose: To promote French proficiency and maintain Quebec’s Francophone identity
Grace Period for Current Workers
Foreign workers who are already in Quebec before December 17, 2025, will have an extended three-year grace period — until December 17, 2028 — to meet the new French requirement.
During this period, they will still be allowed to renew their work permits and obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) without needing to prove French proficiency immediately.
Who is Exempt from This Requirement?
Some categories of workers are not required to meet this French-speaking requirement, including:
- Agricultural workers under the TFWP
- Employees of foreign political organizations operating in Quebec
- Staff of international non-governmental organizations (INGOs) recognized by the Quebec government
Why Is Quebec Enforcing This Rule?
This policy aligns with Quebec’s broader immigration strategy focused on:
- Reducing temporary resident numbers (students and foreign workers) to ease pressure on housing and affordability.
- Strengthening the French language, which Quebec considers central to its identity, culture, and social cohesion.
- Encouraging long-term integration of newcomers into Francophone communities.
By prioritizing French-speaking workers, Quebec aims to balance economic needs with cultural preservation.
About the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The TFWP allows Canadian employers to hire foreign nationals for specific jobs when qualified Canadians or permanent residents are unavailable.
Key details:
- Each TFWP work permit is employer-specific and requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- The LMIA confirms that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact Canadian workers.
- In Quebec, foreign workers must also obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) before applying for their federal work permit.
This is separate from the International Mobility Program (IMP), which issues work permits based on reciprocal or cultural benefits to Canada and does not require an LMIA.
Impact on Workers and Employers
This change may significantly influence foreign workers’ ability to remain in Quebec long-term.
Employers are encouraged to begin preparing now by:
- Offering French language training to their international employees.
- Assisting staff in achieving NCLC level 4 or higher before the new rule takes effect.
- Reviewing staffing plans and renewal timelines for existing foreign workers.
Foreign workers, meanwhile, are urged to begin French classes early to ensure compliance and continued employment eligibility beyond 2025.
Summary of the New Policy
- Effective Date: December 17, 2025
- French Requirement: NCLC Level 4 spoken proficiency
- Applies To: TFWP workers with 3+ years in Quebec
- Grace Period: Until December 17, 2028, for existing workers
- Exemptions: Agriculture, political offices, and INGOs
- Purpose: Promote French integration and cultural preservation
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