Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw on April 29, 2026. This round specifically targeted candidates under the French-Language Proficiency category. As a result, IRCC invited 4,000 candidates to apply for Canadian permanent residence.

To qualify, candidates needed a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 400. Overall, this relatively low cut-off once again highlights Canada’s continued focus on attracting French-speaking skilled professionals to strengthen its bilingual workforce.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

Key Highlights of the April 29, 2026 Draw

  • Draw Name: French-Language Proficiency
  • Date and Time: April 29, 2026 at 11:02:27 UTC
  • CRS Score: 400
  • Invitations Issued: 4,000
  • Rank Required: 4,000 or above
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: April 07, 2026 at 20:13:59 UTC
If more than one candidate had the lowest CRS score, IRCC selected profiles based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles. Therefore, candidates who applied earlier received priority.

Why French-Language Draws Matter

Canada is actively promoting French-speaking immigration outside Quebec. These category-based draws are designed to strengthen Francophone communities across different provinces. Because of this, candidates with strong French language skills have a clear advantage, even with lower CRS scores.

Understanding Express Entry Programs

IRCC manages three main immigration programs through Express Entry:
  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
  • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
In addition, category-based draws like French-language proficiency allow Canada to target specific skills and language groups.

How the CRS Score Works

The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) ranks candidates based on:
  • Age
  • Education
  • Work experience
  • Language proficiency
Candidates can also earn extra points through French language skills, Canadian experience, or provincial nominations. This makes language improvement a key factor in increasing your score.

Steps to Get an ITA

If you are planning to apply through Express Entry: First, check your eligibility under FSWP, FSTP, or CEC Next, create your Express Entry profile Then, receive your CRS score Finally, wait for a draw and receive an ITA if your score meets the requirement

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is Canada’s online system used to manage skilled immigration applications. It allows IRCC to select candidates quickly based on CRS scores and labour market needs.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

Start Your Canada PR Journey

Planning to apply for Canada PR? This latest draw clearly shows that French-speaking candidates have strong chances, even with moderate CRS scores. Apical Immigration Experts can assist you with profile evaluation, documentation, and complete PR process support.