How do you really comply with Bill 96 in Quebec?
Bill 96 in Quebec introduces strict new language requirement as of June 1, 2025 , impacting how businesses communicate, market, recruit and operate, both locally and internationally. It represents a major shift in the Charter of the French Language, also known as Bill 101.
Why it matters
As Quebec continues to attract Canadian and international businesses, compliance with Bill 96 in Quebec is now a legal and strategic necessity.
What is Bill 96?
Passed in 2022, Bill 96 reinforces French as Quebec’s only official language. It amends more than 20 existing laws, including the Charter of the French Language, and applies to any business whose content or services are accessible to a Quebec-based audience—even without a physical presence in the province.
It affects:
-
Websites and digital platforms
-
Legal and commercial documentation
-
HR, signage, and customer service
-
Internal company operations
What are your obligations?
If your company targets Quebec (even passively) you’re likely subject to the law. Key obligations include:
- A fully translated French version of your website and apps
- French versions of contracts, terms and policies
- French signage, HR documents and customer service
⚠️ With 25+ employees in Quebec, you must also :
-
Register with the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF)
-
Undergo a language audit
-
Establish a francization program, with a committee if required
-
Who’s affected?
Bill 96 applies to:
-
Quebec-based SMEs (5+ employees)
-
Canadian companies operating in Quebec
-
Foreign companies marketing or selling in Quebec—even online
What are the risks of Non-compliance?
The Ministry of the French Language has expanded powers to audit and enforce. Sanctions may include:
-
Substantial fines
-
Suspension of commercial rights
-
Reputational damage and lost customer trust
How to adapt strategically?
Complying with Bill 96 in Quebec is more than a legal checkbox, it’s a cultural and linguistic transformation.
We recommend:
- Conducting a language and content audit
- Translating and localizing your websites, HR, marketing, and sales tools
- Training your teams on compliance
- Implementing long-term internal processes
Want to learn more? Read our article on Quebec’s culture of consensus and how it impacts business strategy.
Zèbre Stratégie supports you
We support Belgium and foreign companies in their efforts to comply with Bill 96 in Quebec, through :
- Customized audits
- Translation and localization services
- Bilingual content management tools
- Quebec-specific marketing strategies
Ready to comply?
Our team will work with you step by step to assess your risks, translate your media and adapt your strategy.
✅ Personalized audit
✅ Concrete solutions for your websites, documents, HR
✅ Bilingual specialists in the Quebec market
Schedule a free strategy session
You may be asking yourself these questions:
Do I need a French site if I only sell online?
➡ That depends on whether you’re actively targeting Quebec customers. Let’s talk about it.
What if I only operate in B2B?
➡ Bill 96 in Quebec also applies to business-to-business relations if you offer your services to the Quebec public.
I only offer online services. Am I concerned?
➡ Yes, if your services are accessible to Quebecers, your site must be in French.
I don't have a local team in Quebec. Do I still have to comply?
➡ The absence of staff does not dispense with the need for legally compliant communication.
Do you have a specific question?
Bill 96 in Quebec applies differently depending on your sector, distribution method or location.
Contact us for a compliance analysis.
0 Comments