IRCC has announced an increase in the intake for its Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP) Canada study to the permanent residence pathway. The federal immigration department will now accept nearly 700 additional applications. This brings the total annual cap to 2,970, up from 2,300 last year. Applicants will be accepted from August 26, 2025, to August 25, 2026.
This initiative is part of IRCC's commitment to attract more francophone immigrants outside Quebec, where the proportion of French-speaking residents has declined steadily. The FMCSP study to the PR Canada pathway allows international students to pursue postsecondary education in French-speaking programs while securing a clear route to permanent residence after graduation.
Eligibility and Benefits of the FMCSP
To apply under the FMCSP Canada, applicants must demonstrate a minimum level 5 proficiency in French according to Canada’s Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC). This is lower than the level 7 NCLC required under Express Entry, making the pathway more accessible to francophone students.
Eligible students must:
- Submit a study permit application before entering Canada.
- Be a citizen of an eligible Francophone member country from Africa, the Middle East, or the Americas.
- Have a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution participating in the FMCSP. This confirms enrollment in a full-time postsecondary program taught primarily in French, lasting at least two years, and leading to a diploma or degree.
- Provide French language test results meeting NCLC level 5 in speaking, listening, reading, and writing.
- Show proof of sufficient funds to cover living expenses beyond tuition.
- Be admissible to Canada along with any accompanying family members.
Pathway for Immediate Family Members
The FMCSP allows immediate family members to accompany. This includes a spouse or common-law partner, dependent children, and the dependent children of dependent children, who can also apply for PR. While awaiting PR decisions, both the primary applicant and family members may qualify for open work permits. This enables them to work across Canada in most industries.
Application Process
Applicants can access country-specific instructions through IRCC’s “How to Apply” portal for the FMCSP. The portal generates a personalised checklist based on family involvement. This will include the required documents, such as application forms, academic records, proof of funds, and French language test results. IRCC emphasises the importance of completing the application carefully to correctly indicate FMCSP status.
Why IRCC Raised the Cap
The increased intake supports IRCC’s mandate to strengthen francophone communities outside Quebec. Under the department’s policy on Francophone immigration, 9.5% of Canada’s 2026 immigrant landings are planned for francophones outside Quebec. Initiatives such as the French-language category of IRCC Express Entry, the Welcoming Francophone Community initiative, and the FMCSP ensure that more francophone students can study and settle in Canada.
Croyez Immigration’s Assistance
Croyez Immigration Canada offers comprehensive guidance for students seeking the FMCSP study to PR pathway. Our experts help with eligibility assessments, securing DLI acceptance, French-language documentation, and applications for both the student and accompanying family members. Aspiring Francophone students can easily navigate the study to PR Canada process with the assistance of Croyez Immigration. Our assistance makes the process smoother and increases the likelihood of a successful settlement in Canada.
