French-Language Express Entry Draw Sees CRS Score Drop Below 400
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted another Express Entry draw, inviting 5,000 French-speaking candidates to apply for Canadian permanent residence.
The latest draw highlights Canada’s continued commitment to welcoming bilingual skilled workers and strengthening Francophone communities across the country.
To receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), candidates needed:
- Minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) Score: 399
- Express Entry Profile Created Before: November 19, 2025, at 9:21 p.m. UTC
Lowest French-Language CRS Since March 2026
This draw marks the lowest CRS cut-off for a French-language Express Entry draw since March 2026, making it an encouraging opportunity for bilingual candidates seeking permanent residence.
French-language proficiency remains one of the strongest ways to improve an Express Entry profile, with eligible candidates receiving additional CRS points for strong French language skills.
Draw Highlights
- Draw Type: French-Language Proficiency
- ITAs Issued: 5,000
- CRS Cut-off: 399
- Draw Date: July 22, 2026
Express Entry in 2026
IRCC has now conducted 41 Express Entry draws in 2026.
Draw distribution:
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): 14
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 12
- French-Language: 8
- Healthcare & Social Services: 2
- Physicians with Canadian Work Experience: 2
- Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience: 2
- Trades: 1
More Than 104,000 Invitations Issued
Throughout 2026, IRCC has issued 104,612 Invitations to Apply (ITAs).
Invitation breakdown:
- Canadian Experience Class: 45,250
- French-Language: 40,500
- Provincial Nominee Program: 6,450
- Healthcare & Social Services: 8,000
- Trades: 3,000
- Physicians: 662
- Senior Managers: 750
What This Means for Applicants
The latest French-language draw demonstrates Canada’s ongoing efforts to attract bilingual professionals. Candidates with French proficiency may significantly improve their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply through Express Entry.
If you have French language skills, now is an excellent time to review your Express Entry profile and explore your pathway to Canadian permanent residence.
