IRCC issues 6,000 ITAs in large French-language Express Entry draw — CRS cut-off falls to 408

Ottawa, November 2025 — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a French-language Express Entry draw, setting the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score at 408. The draw, one of the largest French-category rounds this year, underscores the federal government’s continued focus on francophone skilled immigration outside Quebec.

What happened

• IRCC invited 6,000 Express Entry candidates in the French-language proficiency category.
• Minimum CRS required: 408.
• Eligibility cutoff included profiles created on or before May 26, 2025 at 12:28 p.m. UTC.
• This draw is among the largest single-category draws of 2025 and is the eighth French-language draw this year.

Why this matters

• The French-language category continues to drive high volumes of ITAs in 2025 — francophone draws have issued tens of thousands of invitations year-to-date.
• A CRS cut-off of 408 is one of the lowest seen in 2025 for major draws, making this an important opportunity for bilingual candidates or those with strong French test results.
• Candidates with reasonable CRS scores who also show French proficiency have a substantially improved chance of receiving an ITA compared with standard draws.

Who benefits most

• Candidates with official French test results (TEF/TCF) and at least moderate English proficiency.
• Applicants with mid-range CRS scores (around 400–450) who may not be competitive in general draws but qualify under the French category.
• Provinces and employers seeking bilingual talent — especially in health care, education, public service, and community services.

How this draw fits the 2025 pattern

• IRCC has prioritized targeted category draws in 2025 (French-language, healthcare, PNP, CEC).
• French-category draws have been large and frequent, reflecting federal policy goals to strengthen francophone communities outside Quebec and attract bilingual skilled workers.

Practical advice for candidates

• If you have French language skills, ensure your official test results (TEF Canada / TCF Canada) are valid and uploaded to your Express Entry profile.
• Re-check your profile details (education, work history, dependants) to ensure your CRS is accurate. Small changes (e.g., additional language points, provincial nomination) can make a major difference.
• Consider improving French or English test scores, or explore Provincial Nominee Programs that prioritize bilingual candidates.
• Keep documents (ECA, police certificates, IME where required) ready so you can submit a complete PR application quickly if invited.
  

For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!