Canada has taken another strong step to support Francophone immigration. On December 17, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a new Express Entry draw focused on candidates with strong French language proficiency. As a result, 6,000 applicants received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency.

Notably, the minimum CRS score for this draw was 399. This lower cut-off created a valuable opportunity for French-speaking skilled workers both in Canada and abroad.

Check Your Skilled Assessment & Eligibility

Express Entry Draw Details

Here are the key highlights from the latest draw:

  • Draw Date: December 17, 2025
  • Draw Type: French Language Proficiency
  • Invitations Issued: 6,000
  • Minimum CRS Score: 399
  • Rank Required: 6,000 or above
  • Tie-Breaking Rule: August 24, 2025, at 23:43:05 UTC

When multiple candidates shared the same CRS score, IRCC applied the tie-breaking rule based on the date and time of profile submission.

What Is the French Language Proficiency Category?

The French language proficiency category falls under Canada’s category-based Express Entry system. It focuses on attracting skilled French-speaking workers to support Francophone communities outside Quebec.

To qualify, candidates must prove strong French language skills through approved language tests and meet standard Express Entry eligibility requirements. Through this approach, Canada continues to strengthen its bilingual identity and regional workforce needs.

CRS Trends and What This Draw Signals

Compared to recent Express Entry rounds, a CRS cut-off of 399 is relatively low. This clearly shows IRCC’s priority to welcome more French-speaking immigrants.

Moreover, issuing 6,000 ITAs in one draw signals a strong effort to meet immigration targets while promoting linguistic and cultural diversity. For French-speaking candidates, this trend is encouraging and may continue into 2026.

Steps to Take After Receiving an ITA

If you received an ITA in this draw, act quickly and follow these steps:
  1. Accept your ITA through your IRCC account
  2. Prepare required documents, such as language results, education records, work experience proof, medical exams, and police certificates
  3. Submit your PR application within 60 days
  4. Wait for processing, which usually takes up to six months
If you do not yet have an Express Entry profile, now is the right time—especially if you have strong French language skills.

What to Expect Next

As Canada works toward its 2025–2026 immigration goals, more French-language and category-based draws are likely. Candidates with French or bilingual abilities can expect continued demand across multiple sectors.

Apply Now!

Get Expert Help with Your Canada PR Journey

For personalized advice and profile evaluation, connect with Apical Immigration Experts. Their experienced team can help you improve your CRS score and guide you through the Express Entry process.

Take the first step toward your Canada PR journey today:

Stay informed, stay prepared, and move closer to your Canadian permanent residency goal.