Is French required for Canada’s work visa now?

No, speaking French is not a mandatory requirement for a Canadian work visa in most cases—unless the job specifically requires it or you're applying to work in a French-speaking region like Quebec.

When is French NOT Required?

In most provinces (like Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia):

• English is the primary language, and speaking French is not required.

• You can get a work visa based on:

o A valid job offer

o Employer-provided LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment), if needed

o Meeting general visa requirements

When is French REQUIRED?

You may need French if:

1. You're applying for a job in Quebec (where French is the main language of work).

2. The employer specifically requires French as part of the job (e.g., customer service, teaching).

3. You're applying under certain immigration streams like:

o Quebec Skilled Worker Program

o Francophone Mobility Program (designed to promote French outside Quebec)

Language in Work Visa Applications:

• Work visa applications don’t require a language test unless you're applying under an immigration program like Express Entry (PR pathway).

• However, if your job requires communication in French, you may be asked to demonstrate your language ability.

Summary:

For a general Canadian work visa in most provinces, speaking French is not required. However, for jobs in Quebec, French is usually required. It is also necessary for francophone-specific immigration programs and for jobs that specifically require French language skills.