Express Entry Draw #339: A Golden Opportunity for French Speakers & What’s Next in 2025
Canada’s latest Express Entry draw has opened doors like never before for French-speaking candidates! On March 6, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a category-based draw targeting candidates with strong French-language skills. The standout detail? The minimum CRS score dropped to 410—the lowest since August 2024. If you’re a Francophone eyeing Canadian permanent residency, here’s your breakdown of what this means and how to prepare for future draws.
Draw Date: March 6, 2025
Category: French-Language Proficiency
ITAs Issued: 4,500
Minimum CRS Score: 410
Deadline for Profiles: Submitted by February 11, 2025 (7:47 AM UTC)
This draw underscores Canada’s commitment to boosting Francophone communities outside Quebec. With CRS scores hitting a 7-month low, the barrier to entry is lower than ever for bilingual candidates.
The big question on everyone’s mind: Will CRS scores keep falling in 2025? While IRCC hasn’t confirmed future draws, patterns suggest French-language draws will stay frequent. Here’s a quick snapshot of this year’s activity:
| Date | Draw Type | ITAs Issued | CRS Cut-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 6 | French-Language Proficiency | 4,500 | 410 |
| February 19 | French-Language Proficiency | 6,500 | 428 |
The downward trend in CRS scores (from 428 to 410 in just weeks) hints that future draws could maintain—or even lower—these thresholds. Plus, category-based selections for healthcare, trades, and education are likely to dominate 2025, aligning with Canada’s labor market needs.
While IRCC doesn’t publish a fixed schedule, historical data points to a bi-weekly draw pattern with a mix of categories. Here’s our forecast for upcoming draws:
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Expect draws around March 17 and March 31.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Potential rounds on March 18 and April 1.
Category-Based Draws: Anticipate French-language draws in mid-March, followed by healthcare and trades-specific rounds.
Pro Tip: Strengthen your profile by boosting language scores (French and English) and securing valid job offers. Every point counts!
Canada aims to welcome 26,100 French-speaking immigrants by 2025, and Express Entry is their fast track. The latest draw proves that prioritizing French proficiency pays off, with:
Lower CRS requirements compared to general draws.
Dedicated category-based selections every 2-3 weeks.
Priority processing for candidates contributing to Francophone minority communities.
If you’re fluent in French, now’s the time to act!
While IRCC keeps exact dates under wraps, here’s how to stay ahead:
Track Historical Data: Bi-weekly draws are typical, often on Wednesdays.
Monitor Category Trends: French-language, healthcare, and trades are 2025’s hot categories.
Optimize Your CRS Score: Improve language test results, gain work experience, or secure a provincial nomination.
Update Your Profile: Ensure all details (language tests, job offers, education) are current.
Aim for Dual Language Proficiency: Maximize points by acing both French (TEF) and English (IELTS/CELPIP).
Stay Informed: Follow IRCC updates and subscribe to our Express Entry Live Tracker for real-time alerts.
Express Entry Draw #339 is a clear signal: Canada is rolling out the red carpet for French-speaking talent. With CRS scores at historic lows and frequent category-based invites, 2025 could be your year to secure permanent residency.
Stay ahead of the curve! Bookmark our blog for the latest Express Entry predictions, CRS score trends, and exclusive insights. Ready to start your journey? Explore our step-by-step immigration guide here.
What is the latest Express Entry draw prediction for French-speaking candidates in 2025?
The March 6, 2025 draw (#339) issued 4,500 ITAs with a CRS cut-off of 410. Predictions suggest future French-language proficiency draws may maintain or lower scores, aligning with Canada’s focus on Francophone immigration.
How does category-based selection benefit French-speaking applicants?
IRCC prioritizes French-language proficiency in category-based draws, offering lower CRS requirements (e.g., 410 in March 2025) and frequent invitations to support Francophone communities outside Quebec.
Will CRS scores drop further in 2025 Express Entry draws?
Trends show CRS cut-offs for French-language draws decreased from 428 (February 2025) to 410 (March 2025). Experts predict scores may stabilize or dip slightly as IRCC aims to meet annual Francophone immigration targets.
What new NOCs were added to Express Entry in 2025?
While specific 2025 NOC updates aren’t confirmed, IRCC emphasizes category-based selections for healthcare, trades, and education. Always check IRCC’s official site for the latest NOC additions.
How do PNP and CEC draws affect CRS cut-offs?
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws typically have higher CRS requirements than French-language category draws. IRCC balances these streams to meet diverse labor market needs.
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