C16 — Francophone Mobility Work Permit (Mobilité Francophone)

The Francophone Mobility (C16) is a Canadian LMIA-exempt, employer-specific work permit for French-speaking workers destined for provinces or territories outside Quebec. Employers use exemption code C16 through the IRCC Employer Portal, bypassing the standard labour market impact assessment.

Permits are normally issued for the length of the employment contract and are renewable. Spouses or common-law partners can apply for an open work permit if the contract is six months or more; dependent children may study or visit. Permit holders can boost their Express Entry profile with French-language scores.

This visa is ideal for French-speaking foreign workers with a job offer in Canada outside Quebec at NCLC Level 5 or higher in any TEER 0-5 category (excluding primary agriculture TEER 4/5).