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Express Entry: 4,500 Invitations to Apply Issued in Biggest French Language Draw in September 2025

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) made headlines on September 4 with a significant draw for French-speaking candidates.

IRCC issued 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to pursue Canadian permanent residency through the Express Entry system.

With a minimum CRS score of 446, this French proficiency round stood out for its accessibility compared to other recent draws. This announcement signals Canada's growing emphasis on bilingual immigration and opens more doors for Francophone professionals.

Express Entry Draws Held in First Week of September

Draw DateCategory/ProgramNo. of ITAsCRS Cut-off
Sept 4/25French Language Proficiency4,500446
Sept 3/25Canadian Experience Class1,000534
Sept 2/25Provincial Nominee Program249772

What's the Impact?

Canada's latest French language Express Entry draw shows the country's clear goal: welcoming more French-speaking skilled workers to build vibrant bilingual communities across Canada. This boost helps meet labour needs while supporting the growth of Francophone populations beyond Quebec. The draw's large number of invitations makes this pathway more accessible to many hopeful newcomers.

Current Trends in Canada’s Express Entry

  • French-language Express Entry draws often have lower CRS cut-offs, making Canada's immigration system more accessible for bilingual candidates.
  • The government aims to welcome nearly 30,000 Francophone newcomers by 2025, increasing diversity in the workforce.
  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) remain crucial, but French proficiency is given more weight to boost Canadian immigration goals.
  • Other immigration streams are generally seeing fewer invitations and higher cut-offs.

What to Expect in 2025?

French-focused draws will continue as part of Canada's immigration plan, with invitations issued regularly to meet rising targets. Candidates can expect competitive but somewhat more favourable conditions if they demonstrate strong French language skills. Other pathways, such as provincial nominee programs, are also adding Francophone streams to support these goals. Increased invitations will focus on skilled workers who can contribute to regional economies and support Canada's bilingual identity.

How to Boost Your CRS Score for Aspiring Express Entry Candidates

  • Improve your French language test results (TEF or TCF Canada) to earn up to 50 extra CRS points.
  • Gain Canadian work experience, which significantly increases CRS ranking.
  • Apply for provincial nominations, which add 600 points to your CRS score.
  • Hold a valid, active profile in the Express Entry pool before the draw's tie-break timestamp.

These steps help French-speaking candidates stand out in the pool and increase their chances of receiving an invitation.

Rising Targets and Lower CRS Scores Make French Express Entry Draws a Strong Opportunity in 2025

Canada is steadily increasing its goal to welcome more French-speaking immigrants outside Quebec, aiming for 8.5% of all new permanent residents in 2025, rising to 12% by 2029. This push supports minority Francophone communities across the country. Notably, the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores for French category draws remain much lower than general draws, giving French-speaking candidates a clear edge.

Notably, early 2025 draws have seen CRS cut-offs as low as 379, compared to often 500+ in other streams. This trend reflects the government's focus on growing bilingual skilled workers to strengthen Canada's economy and cultural diversity.

Canada's francophone-friendly immigration policies open a clear path for skilled workers ready to build a future here. Candidates can expect more draws targeting French proficiency, opening doors for professionals aiming to settle nationwide beyond Quebec.

For more on eligibility, Express Entry trends, and strategic advice for future draws, contact ImmiLaw Global. Stay ahead, stay informed, and follow us.

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