French-Speaking Candidates Score Big in Latest Express Entry Draw
Express Entry Draw: 4,500 Invitations Issued for French-Speaking Candidates
In an exciting update from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), another round of Express Entry invitations has been issued—this time with a special focus on candidates who are proficient in French. If you’re a francophone interested in immigrating to Canada, this draw might be a promising opportunity for you!
Key Highlights
- IRCC issued 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the latest Express Entry draw.
- This draw targeted candidates with strong French language skills.
- Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 446.
- Candidates needed to have submitted their Express Entry profile before June 16, 2025, at 7:21 a.m. UTC.
- This was the third Express Entry draw in a single week.
- Over 62,000 ITAs have been issued through Express Entry so far in 2025.
What Happened in the Latest Express Entry Draw?
The IRCC held a category-based Express Entry draw focused exclusively on candidates with French-language proficiency. A total of 4,500 candidates received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency. To be eligible, applicants needed a CRS score of at least 446 and had to have submitted their Express Entry profile before June 16, 2025, at 7:21 a.m. UTC.
This draw highlights Canada’s continued efforts to encourage francophone immigration, especially outside of Quebec. It’s part of the broader strategy to promote bilingualism and support French-speaking communities across the country.
Why Is French Proficiency Being Prioritized?
Canada has been putting a strong focus on attracting French-speaking newcomers, especially in provinces and territories outside of Quebec. This is part of IRCC’s goal to increase the representation of francophone immigrants across the country. If you can demonstrate French language skills, you may enjoy added advantages in certain Express Entry draws.
French-language draws are part of Canada’s category-based selection process, which also includes priority occupations like healthcare, education, and skilled trades.
Other Recent Express Entry Draws in 2025
This French-language draw is the third Express Entry draw this week alone. Here’s a quick recap of the week’s activity:
- September 3: 1,000 ITAs issued to Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates with a cut-off CRS of 534.
- September 2: 249 ITAs issued through the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) with a high cut-off score of 772.
Earlier this summer, we also saw significant draws for healthcare professionals and other skilled workers. These strategic selections help fill in-demand roles in Canada’s workforce.
Summary of 2025 Express Entry Activity (So Far)
As of now, IRCC has issued a total of 62,109 ITAs via Express Entry in 2025. The focus has been spread across different categories, with Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws leading the pack.
| Draw Type | Number of Draws |
|---|---|
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 16 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 9 |
| French-language Proficiency | 5 |
| Healthcare and Social Services | 4 |
| Education | 1 |
This targeted approach helps IRCC meet specific labour market needs across Canada while also supporting diversity and inclusion goals.
What Is the CRS Score and Why Does It Matter?
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is the backbone of the Express Entry system. It ranks candidates based on factors like age, work experience, education, and language skills. In this recent draw, a minimum CRS score of 446 was needed—relatively moderate compared to other draws this year, especially those in the PNP stream which often see thresholds in the 700s or 800s.
For francophone candidates, having strong French skills can significantly boost your CRS score, especially if you’re also proficient in English. That language combination can give you a major leg up against other candidates.
How Does This Affect You?
If you’re a French-speaking candidate considering immigration to Canada, this is a great time to take action. With regular category-based draws specifically targeting language proficiency, your chances of receiving an ITA could be much higher than you think.
Even if you don’t speak French, it’s worth staying up to date with Express Entry changes. Category-based draws for healthcare professionals, educators, and those with skilled trades or tech experience may offer similar opportunities.
Looking to Boost Your Chances? Consider a PNP
Not everyone will meet the CRS cut-off in federal draws—but don’t worry. Canada offers another excellent immigration pathway through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). These programs allow provinces to nominate candidates based on local labour needs. A nomination essentially guarantees an ITA thanks to the 600 additional CRS points it provides.
One great example is the Manitoba PNP, which regularly selects skilled workers who want to settle in the province. If you’re open to exploring different regions of Canada, a PNP might be your best bet.
Final Thoughts
This latest Express Entry draw is another sign that Canada is actively seeking skilled newcomers to help grow the economy and enrich local communities. Whether you’re fluent in French or part of a key occupation, there are many ways to improve your chances of receiving an ITA.
Ready to see where you stand? Take a few minutes to check your Express Entry profile score and find out how competitive you are in today’s immigration landscape.
Looking to improve your CRS score or explore PNP options? Don’t wait — get started with a personalized assessment today.
