Work in Canada Without LMIA: Francophone Permit Explained

How Canada’s Francophone Mobility Work Permit Makes It Easier to Work Without an LMIA

Looking to work in Canada but worried about language tests and complex paperwork? The Francophone Mobility Work Permit (FMWP) might be just the pathway you need—especially if you speak a bit of French and have a job offer lined up. This LMIA-exempt program is often overlooked but offers a streamlined route for French-speaking applicants to live and work in Canada outside Quebec.

Whether you’re already in Canada or applying from abroad, the FMWP is one of the most accessible employer-specific work permits available. Let’s walk you through how it works, who’s eligible, and how to apply.

Key Highlights

• The FMWP is exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which simplifies the process for foreign workers and employers.
• Applicants need only intermediate French proficiency in speaking and listening—writing and reading tests aren’t required.
• You must plan to work outside of Quebec.
• This permit applies to most job offers, as long as they’re not in low-skill agricultural occupations.
• Employers must submit an offer of employment and pay a compliance fee before you apply.
• Both applicants inside and outside Canada can apply or extend their status through this program.

What Is the Francophone Mobility Work Permit?

The FMWP is a special work permit program that allows French-speaking foreign nationals to work in Canada without needing an LMIA. It was designed to support Canada’s goal of increasing the number of francophones living and working outside Quebec. Simply put, it’s a more flexible and accessible path to Canadian work experience—particularly useful if you’re not fully fluent in French but have intermediate speaking and listening skills.

Why the FMWP Is a Game-Changer for French Speakers

Unlike many other Canadian immigration and work programs that require advanced French or bilingual skills, the FMWP only asks for intermediate ability—that’s a level 5 on the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) scale. What’s more, this level can be demonstrated in a few different ways:

• Through official French language test results;
• By submitting a post-secondary transcript or diploma that shows your education was in French;
• Or with a letter from an institution confirming your education was delivered in French.

This flexibility opens the door to many candidates who may not meet the stricter language criteria of other programs.

Who Can Apply for the FMWP?

To be eligible for this work permit, both the worker and the employer must meet certain criteria. Here’s what you’ll need as an applicant:

• Plan to live and work outside of Quebec. This permit is meant to support francophone communities across other provinces and territories.
• Demonstrate intermediate French-speaking and listening skills (NCLC level 5 or higher).
• Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer in any Training, Education, Experience and Responsibility (TEER) category—except low-skill agriculture jobs in TEER 4 or 5.

Not sure what TEER level your job falls under? Learn more about it on our National Occupational Classification (NOC) guide.

What Your Employer Needs to Do

Before you can submit your FMWP application, your Canadian employer must complete a few key steps:

• Submit an Offer of Employment through the IRCC Employer Portal using exemption code C16 (Mobilité Francophone).
• Pay the $230 employer compliance fee.
• Provide you with a seven-digit offer of employment number, which is required for your application.

It’s important to double-check that your employer has taken care of these items before you move forward with your application.

How to Apply for the Francophone Mobility Work Permit

Whether you’re applying from outside Canada or trying to extend your work permit while already here, the process is fairly straightforward. Here’s a breakdown of the steps:

Step 1: Create or Sign into Your IRCC Account

• Visit the IRCC website and sign in or create a new account.
• This account is where you’ll manage your application, upload documents, and receive updates.

Step 2: Start Your Application

• Click “Start your application” and select “Apply to come to Canada.”
• Choose “I do not have a personal reference code.”
• Select “Visitor visa, study, and/or work permit,” and then choose “Work.”

Step 3: Answer the Questionnaire

Your answers will generate a customized document checklist. Here’s what to say depending on your situation:

If You’re Applying from Outside Canada:

• Choose your intended stay (e.g., “temporarily – more than six months”).
• Say “Yes” when asked if you have a job offer and enter your offer of employment number.
• Select “A work permit with an LMIA.” (Yes, even though it’s LMIA-exempt—it’s how the system routes your application.)

If You’re Inside Canada (Extending Your Status):

• Choose your intended stay length.
• Say “Yes” to having a written job offer.
• Select “I’m applying for an employer-specific work permit with LMIA-exemption.”

Step 4: Complete the Forms

• Use the checklist and instruction guide to fill out your application accurately.

Step 5: Upload Your Documents

• Upload required documents such as your job offer, proof of language ability, and identity documents.
• Use the “Client Information” section to include any extras or merged files.

Step 6: Pay and Submit

• Pay the $155 work permit processing fee.
• Submit your application and wait for IRCC to process it.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve got French skills and a job offer in hand, the Francophone Mobility Work Permit could be your ticket to working in Canada—without jumping through the hoops of an LMIA. It’s a practical, user-friendly pathway that supports Canada’s commitment to strengthening its francophone communities across the country.

And remember: this program is open to workers already in Canada as well as those applying from overseas. So whether you’re looking to kick off a new chapter or extend your stay, the FMWP is worth considering.

Thinking about settling permanently in Canada after your work permit? You might also want to explore the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP), which offers a route to permanent residency for skilled workers.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Still have questions, or want personalized guidance? Get in touch with one of our trusted immigration experts or schedule a free consultation today. We’re here to help you navigate the Canadian immigration system with confidence.