French Speakers Lead New Express Entry Draw with 6,000 ITAs
IRCC Issues 6,000 ITAs in New Express Entry Draw for French-Speaking Candidates
Key Highlights
- IRCC issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a category-based Express Entry draw focused on French-language proficiency.
- Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required: 416.
- This marks the third-largest Express Entry draw of 2025.
- French-speaking candidates have received the most ITAs so far this year—36,000 in total.
- IRCC has issued over 80,000 Express Entry invitations in 2025 across various categories.
- French-language draws support Canada’s Official Languages Act and boost Francophone immigration outside Quebec.
Big News for French-Speaking Candidates in Canada’s Express Entry System
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) continues to put a strong focus on French-speaking newcomers through the Express Entry system. On October 29, 2025, IRCC issued a whopping 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a draw specifically targeting candidates with French-language proficiency.
To be eligible, candidates needed to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 416 and must’ve submitted their Express Entry profile before 3:27 p.m. UTC on September 8, 2025. This draw is part of Canada’s ongoing effort to welcome more Francophone immigrants outside of Quebec.
Why This Draw Is a Big Deal
This recent selection ranks as the third-largest Express Entry draw of the year. Notably, the two larger draws were also dedicated to French-speaking candidates, held back on February 19 and March 21. It’s clear that Francophone immigration has become a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration priorities in 2025.
With this draw, the total number of ITAs issued to French-speaking candidates this year has reached 36,000—more than any other category. This trend reflects IRCC’s commitment to boosting Francophone immigration in support of Canada’s Official Languages Act.
Snapshot of Recent Express Entry Draws
October has been a big month for Express Entry. This latest draw is the seventh of the month and follows closely behind other category-based draws:
- October 28: 1,000 ITAs issued in a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw with a 533 CRS cut-off.
- October 27: A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw invited 302 candidates with a 761 score cut-off.
- October 15: 2,500 ITAs issued in a draw focusing on healthcare and social services occupations.
Altogether, IRCC has issued 80,485 ITAs through the Express Entry system in 2025 across a range of immigration streams.
Breakdown of 2025 Express Entry Draw Types
The Express Entry system has become more dynamic, with IRCC prioritizing candidates based on in-demand occupations, language ability, and program-specific eligibility. Here’s how 2025 draw types stack up so far:
| Draw Type | Number of Draws |
|---|---|
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 20 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 11 |
| French-language proficiency | 7 |
| Healthcare and social services | 5 |
| Education | 2 |
| Trade | 1 |
French-language proficiency and the Canadian Experience Class are leading the way, showing Canada’s clear focus on attracting skilled talent with strong integration potential.
ITAs Issued by Stream in 2025
Let’s take a closer look at how ITAs are being distributed across different streams:
| Draw Type | ITAs Issued to Date |
|---|---|
| French | 36,000 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 22,850 |
| Healthcare and Social Services | 9,792 |
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 7,249 |
| Education | 3,500 |
| Trade | 1,250 |
As you can see, French-speaking candidates are far outpacing other categories. This reflects both the demand for bilingual talent and the federal government’s commitment to increasing the presence of French in communities outside Quebec.
Why This Matters for You
If you’re a French-speaking candidate considering immigration to Canada, now is a great time to get your Express Entry profile submitted. With lower CRS score requirements and a growing number of French-language draws, your chances of receiving an ITA are better than ever.
Even if French isn’t your first language, other pathways like the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) continue to offer strong opportunities—especially if you have Canadian work experience or a provincial nomination.
Not Sure If Your Profile Is Competitive?
One of the best steps you can take today is to check how your profile stacks up. Whether you’re targeting a French-language draw or another stream, knowing your CRS score and eligibility is key.
See how competitive your Express Entry profile is
Looking Ahead
With 2025 shaping up to be a record-breaking year for Express Entry, we can expect to see more category-based draws that target key sectors and language groups. If you’re considering immigration, it’s a good idea to stay informed and make sure your Express Entry profile is up to date.
And if you’re thinking about settling in a province like Manitoba, don’t forget to check your potential eligibility through the Manitoba PNP – another great pathway for skilled workers.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s immigration system continues to evolve, and opportunities for French-speaking candidates have never been more promising. Whether you’re a bilingual professional, a healthcare worker, or someone with strong Canadian work experience, there’s likely a draw type that fits your profile.
Want to learn more about your options or how to improve your CRS score? Don’t miss our upcoming guides on Express Entry strategies and provincial programs. Stay connected and take the next step toward your Canadian dream!
Ready to find your Express Entry pathway? Explore our latest content or contact our team for guidance tailored to your profile.
