As of June 1st, 2025, new provisions of Loi 96 have officially come into effect, reinforcing the use of French as the national language of Québec. For businesses, this marks a meaningful shift in how they operate, communicate, and serve the Québec public.
Why Is French Being Protected?
French is at the heart of Québec’s identity. It’s not just a language—it’s a culture, a history, and a collective heritage. In a predominantly English-speaking continent, protecting French in Québec ensures that future generations can live, work, and thrive in a society where their language remains vibrant and central.
Loi 96 is about ensuring that French remains the common language of the public sphere—in commerce, in the workplace, in education, and in daily life. It strengthens the Charter of the French Language (Bill 101) and reinforces Québec’s commitment to its unique linguistic character.
What Are the New Requirements for Businesses?
Here’s what businesses need to know:
1. French Contracts
All standard form contracts and contracts of adhesion must be presented in French first. Only after presenting the French version can a party request an English translation.
2. French Signage and Trademarks
If your business uses a non-French trademark on public signage, it must be accompanied by a French description or generic term—and it must be displayed 2x the size of your storefront signage.
3. Websites in French
Businesses offering goods or services to Québec consumers must ensure their websites and online platforms are available in French, and the French version must be equivalent in quality and accessibility.
4. French at Work
Businesses with 25 or more employees must operate primarily in French internally. This includes employee communications, work tools, software, and training materials.
5. French Job Postings and Hiring
A job posting that requires knowledge of a language other than French must include a justified explanation of why that language is necessary for the role.
Why This Is a Positive Measure
Loi 96 isn’t about excluding English—it’s about making room for French to thrive and be prioritized. It ensures that Québec remains a place where French-speaking citizens can live fully in their own language—without compromise.
For businesses, this law offers a chance to:
Build stronger ties with Québec customers
Demonstrate cultural respect and adaptability
Foster a more inclusive French-speaking workplace
French is more than a linguistic requirement—it’s a bridge to trust, connection, and belonging in Québec society.
By embracing Loi 96, businesses aren’t just complying with the law—they’re participating in the cultural continuity of Québec!
It’s a powerful message that French matters, and that Québec’s identity is worth protecting and celebrating.
Vive le Québec!