ENTRY EXPRESS - FRANCOPHONE AND LETTER INTENTION LIVE OUTSIDE OF QUEBEC

[KamelBen514]

Hi everyone,


I recently received an ITA for permanent residence through Express Entry, Francophone CEC category, and I need advice regarding proof of my intention to live outside Quebec.


Here’s my situation:

• I studied in Quebec, currently work here, and have an apartment in my name.
• My Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) expires on February 26, 2026, and I have until February 16, 2026 to submit my PR application.
• I want to settle in Ontario (Mississauga / GTA) as soon as my PR is granted.

Actions I’ve already taken to show my intention to settle in Ontario:

1. Notarized Letter of Intent clearly stating I plan to live in Mississauga / GTA.
2. Active job search in Ontario: Job Bank, LinkedIn, recruiters since January 2024 (6 contacts saved).
3. Sent over 500 CVs for Ontario positions since receiving the ITA.
4. Visited Ontario multiple times to check neighborhoods, housing, and infrastructure.
5. In-person apartment visits in Ontario: Even though I currently live in Montreal, I spend periods in Ontario to look for apartments and explore the area.
6. 6-week plan on-site to search actively for jobs and get familiar with the area.
7. Canadian bank account opened in preparation for moving to Ontario.
8. Partial remote work possibility: my current employer could allow me to work from Ontario while attending the office 2x per week.
9. I plan not to renew my Montreal lease when it expires in July 2026.

My concerns / questions:

• I’m afraid to sign a lease immediately in Ontario, because I have no guarantee my PR will be approved — this is really the hardest part for me.
• Is all this sufficient to prove my genuine intention to live outside Quebec for the Francophone CEC category?
• Does staying temporarily employed by a Quebec-based company pose any problem for this category?
• My employer might help me get a Young Professional work permit (Experience category) — is it compatible with living in Ontario while continuing to attend the office 2x per week?
• Is it recommended to take a lease in Ontario now to strengthen my file, or are there other, less risky ways to prove my intention?
• Are there other concrete pieces of evidence I can quickly add to show that I truly intend to settle in Ontario?
• I’ve already completed everything in my PR application, but I’m thinking carefully about how best to submit — what do you think?

Thank you in advance for your advice, experiences, and support