Are you a French-speaking citizen dreaming of studying and settling in Canada? There’s a golden opportunity available through the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP)—a unique and direct pathway from study to Permanent Residency (PR) without the need to compete through Express Entry.

Launched in August 2024, the FMCSP supports the development of Francophone minority communities outside Quebec and gives French-speaking students from 33 eligible countries a streamlined route to Canadian PR.


What Is the FMCSP Program?

The FMCSP was introduced to help Canada meet its goals of growing Francophone populations across the country. Unlike traditional immigration programs, FMCSP offers:

  • A direct study-to-PR pathway

  • No need for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

  • No job offer or Express Entry profile required

With FMCSP, eligible students can move to Canada, study at select institutions, and apply for permanent residency immediately after graduation.


Key Benefits of the FMCSP Pathway

Lower Language Requirements
Only NCLC level 5 in French is required—much lower than the NCLC 7 needed for French-speaking Express Entry draws.

No Job Offer Needed
You won’t have to wait for an invitation to apply through Express Entry or secure a job offer.

Access to Settlement Services
Get help while studying, including language training and job search support.

Family Can Join You
Your spouse or children may qualify for visitor visas, study permits, or open work permits.


FMCSP Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the program, you must:

  • Be a citizen of one of the 33 eligible countries (including Haiti, Cameroon, Tunisia, Morocco, Lebanon, etc.)

  • Be outside Canada when applying

  • Obtain a Letter of Acceptance from a participating Designated Learning Institution (DLI) outside Quebec

  • Prove French language proficiency at NCLC level 5

  • Demonstrate proof of funds for tuition and living expenses

Your program must be:

  • Full-time, lasting at least two years

  • Taught in French (minimum 50%)

  • Lead to a diploma or degree


List of Participating Colleges and Universities

Here are some of the 14 designated institutions under FMCSP:

  • Collège Boréal (Ontario)

  • Université de Moncton (New Brunswick)

  • University of Ottawa (Ontario)

  • York University – Glendon Campus (Ontario)

  • University of Alberta (Alberta)


FMCSP Application Process: Step-by-Step

  1. Apply to a participating DLI and receive a Letter of Acceptance that states FMCSP participation.

  2. Apply online through the IRCC portal with required documents:

    • FMCSP-specific Letter of Acceptance

    • Language test results (TEF Canada or TCF Canada)

    • Proof of financial support

    • Medical and police clearance (if required)

  3. No provincial attestation letter (PAL) is required, unlike regular study permit streams.

Financial Proof Requirements

Financial proof varies by province. A single applicant must show between $14,206 to $20,635, depending on the location. Acceptable proofs include:

  • Bank statements

  • GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)

  • Education loan documents

  • Receipts of tuition or housing payments


Transitioning to Permanent Residency After Graduation

Once you graduate from a qualifying program:

  • You must reside outside Quebec

  • Hold valid temporary resident status

  • Apply for PR without a job offer or Express Entry profile

This makes FMCSP one of the most accessible PR pathways for French-speaking students globally.


ICC Immigration – Your Trusted Immigration Partner

Navigating Canadian immigration isn’t always simple. That’s where ICC Immigration comes in. With a proven track record and regulated Canadian immigration consultants (RCICs) on staff, we’re here to help you succeed from start to finish.

How ICC Immigration Can Help:

📝 Study & Work Permit Applications
We help you choose the right institution, gather documents, and secure your FMCSP study permit or other temporary visas.

🛂 Permanent Residency Applications
Whether through FMCSP, Express Entry, or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), our experts ensure a smooth and efficient process.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Sponsorship
We assist in sponsoring your spouse, children, or parents, helping them reunite with you in Canada.

⚖️ Expert Legal Advice
Canada’s immigration policies change often. Our legal team keeps you updated and ensures your application is compliant and strong.

Instead of taking uncertain routes like asylum, choose a stable, secure path with the guidance of ICC Immigration. We’re committed to your long-term success in Canada.