French-Speaking Express Entry Draw: 2,500 ITAs Issued by IRCC
IRCC Issues 2,500 Invitations in Latest Express Entry Draw for French-Speaking Candidates
Key Highlights
- IRCC held a new Express Entry draw focused on French-speaking candidates on August 8, 2025
- 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued
- Minimum CRS score required was 481
- Candidates had to submit their Express Entry profile before July 18, 2025
- This is the third Express Entry draw of the week
- Over 53,000 ITAs have been issued by IRCC so far in 2025
Another Boost for Francophone Applicants in Canada’s Express Entry System
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to show strong support for bilingualism by inviting 2,500 French-speaking candidates to apply for permanent residence through its Express Entry system. This latest draw, held on August 8, 2025, specifically targeted applicants with French language proficiency and required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 481.
To qualify, candidates needed to have an active Express Entry profile submitted before 5:16 a.m. UTC on July 18, 2025. This draw is part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to promote and strengthen Francophone communities outside of Quebec.
French Proficiency Becoming a Strategic Advantage
Over the past year, we’ve seen an increase in category-specific draws under Express Entry — especially for candidates with strong French language skills. IRCC has been clear about its goal to encourage more Francophone immigration to support economic growth and cultural diversity across Canada.
If you’re fluent in French, this could be the perfect time to enhance your Express Entry profile. Adding a second official language dramatically improves your CRS score and increases your chances of receiving an invitation.
Busy Week for Express Entry Draws
Interestingly, this French-language draw is the third of the week — a clear sign that IRCC is working hard to meet its immigration targets for 2025. Here’s a quick look at the three draws conducted this week alone:
- August 6: A draw for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates — 225 ITAs issued with a CRS cut-off of 739
- August 7: Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw — 1,000 ITAs issued with a cut-off score of 534
- August 8: French-language proficiency draw — 2,500 ITAs issued with a cut-off of 481
So far in 2025, a total of 53,128 ITAs have been issued through Express Entry. That’s a solid number and shows no signs of slowing down.
Breakdown of Express Entry Draws in 2025
IRCC has been diversifying its draws this year, focusing on a mix of Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates, Canadian Experience Class applicants, French-speaking candidates, and those in key occupations like healthcare and education.
Here’s a quick summary of how 2025 is shaping up so far:
| Draw Type | Number of Draws |
|---|---|
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 14 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 8 |
| French-language proficiency | 4 |
| Healthcare and social services | 3 |
| Education | 1 |
It’s clear that PNP and CEC draws continue to dominate the Express Entry landscape, but category-based draws like this French-language one are becoming a vital part of Canada’s immigration strategy.
Why This Matters for Aspiring Immigrants
For French-speaking candidates — whether currently in Canada or abroad — this draw represents a golden opportunity. With a lower CRS cut-off compared to some of the more competitive draws, it opens the door a bit wider for skilled workers who may not have otherwise qualified.
If you speak French and are looking to build a life in Canada, now’s a great time to make sure your Express Entry profile is up to date. That might include updating your language test scores, gaining more work experience, or exploring nomination options through one of the provinces.
Curious how your CRS score stacks up? You can use our handy Express Entry calculator to find out.
Tips to Improve Your Express Entry Profile
Not quite at the cut-off score yet? No worries — here are a few tried-and-true ways to boost your CRS ranking:
- Language Skills: Retake your IELTS or TEF exam to improve your scores in English or French
- Education: Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for any additional diplomas or degrees
- Work Experience: Add any new experience to your profile, especially Canadian work experience if you have it
- Provincial Nominee Programs: Consider applying through a PNP — many provinces offer additional points or direct invitations
- Spouse Factors: If you’re applying with a spouse, make sure you’re maximizing their points as well
Pro tip: If you’re interested in applying through the Manitoba PNP, it can be a great pathway, especially for applicants with ties to the province or in-demand job skills.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve, and Express Entry remains a powerful tool for bringing skilled talent into the country. This latest draw for French-speaking candidates is a strong example of the government’s commitment to supporting bilingualism and regional growth.
Whether you’re just starting your immigration journey or fine-tuning your Express Entry profile, staying informed about the latest draws and trends can give you a real edge.
Want to find out if you’re ready? Take the next step and check your Express Entry competitiveness today.
Let’s get you one step closer to calling Canada home. 🇨🇦
