Marc Miller, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, issued Ministerial Instructions concerning the Francophone Community Immigration Class. These directives aim to attract French-speaking immigrants to communities outside Quebec, bolstering their cultural and economic vibrancy. This guide delves into the work experience requirements and special provisions outlined in these instructions.

Required Work Experience according to TEER Categories

Canada classifies jobs into Training, Education, Experience, and Responsibilities (TEER) categories under the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. The work experience needed for each TEER category varies based on the job offer:

Job offer in TEER Category 0:

• Work experience in TEER Category 0, 1, 2, or 3.

Job offer in TEER Category 1:

• Work experience in TEER Category 0, 1, 2, or 3.

Job offer in TEER Category 2:

• Work experience in TEER Category 1, 2, 3, or 4.

Job offer in TEER Category 3:

• Work experience in TEER Category 2, 3, or 4, unless special provisions apply.

Job offer in TEER Category 4:

• Work experience in TEER Category 2, 3, or 4, unless special provisions apply.

Job offer in TEER Category 5:

• Work experience in the same NOC unit group as the job offer.

Criteria for Valid Work Experience

To meet eligibility, work experience must adhere to these standards:

• Duration: At least one year of continuous full-time work or an equivalent amount in part-time work.
• Recency: Acquired within the three years before applying for permanent residence.
• Alignment with NOC:
• Performance of actions described in the lead statement of the occupation.
• Execution of a substantial number of the main duties outlined in the occupational description.
• Employment Type: Work must be direct employment, not with a third-party staffing agency.
• Authorization: Work done in Canada must be under proper authorization and with valid temporary resident status.

Special Provisions

1. Nursing Work Experience: Applicants with one year of nursing experience (NOC unit group 31301) in the past three years can qualify if they have a job offer in unit groups 33102 or 44101.
   
   
2. International Graduate Exemption: Recent graduates from eligible Canadian post-secondary programs may be exempt from the work experience requirement if they:
   
   

• Were full-time students throughout the program.
• Obtained their credential within 18 months of application.
• Resided in the designated community during their studies.

Eligible Credentials for Graduates

An eligible credential must be obtained from a Canadian public post-secondary institution in the designated community of employment and cannot:

• Consist mainly of language study (English or French).
• Be primarily through distance learning.
• Be associated with scholarships or fellowships requiring the applicant to return to their home country.

Key Takeaways

The Francophone Community Immigration Class emphasizes work experience that aligns with Canada's TEER system and supports Francophone communities. Exceptions for international graduates and specific occupations like nursing provide flexible pathways for skilled immigrants.



For personalized guidance and support, contact iCA Immigration and Talent Services. Let us simplify your journey to Canadian permanent residency.