New LMIA Exemption for Francophone Workers Outside of Quebec
In an effort to encourage skilled Francophone workers to come to Canada and settle in communities outside of Quebec, starting June 1, 2016, IRCC, is launching the LMIA exempt Mobilité Francophone stream. Little is known about the stream to date, except that it will exempt employers from having to complete an LMIA when they hire francophone workers in managerial, professional, and technical/skilled trade occupations from abroad to work in francophone minority communities outside of Quebec.
Currently, there is no defined list of “francophone minority communities outside of Quebec.”
However, it should be noted that as the system currently stands, workers holding an LMIA exempt work permit under the Mobilité Francophone stream will not benefit from the additional 600 CRS points granted under Express Entry for an LMIA. If employers are considering using the Mobilité Francophone stream and wish to support the foreign worker’s application for permanent residence, they can also consider undertaking a Permanent Labour Market Impact Assessment (“PLMIA”). Under the PLMIA, the employer would still have to test the labour market and advertise for at least 30 days, but if they do not require the PLMIA to support a work permit, they are exempt from the $1000 processing fee requirement.
Employers of these LMIA exempt Francophone workers will still have to complete an Offer of Employment and pay the $230 employer compliance fee through the Employer Portal.
The lawyers of Capelle Kane are committed to keeping up-to-date on the latest updates and changes to Canadian immigration. More details about this program will be posted once they are released.