Canada’s 2025 French-Language Express Entry Draw: 6,500 ITAs at CRS 428
In a groundbreaking move for bilingual candidates, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 6,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in its first French-language category-based draw of 2025—the second-largest draw of its kind. With a record-low CRS cut-off of 428, this draw highlights Canada’s intensified focus on Francophone immigration. Below, we break down what this means for you, with actionable insights to leverage French proficiency for a competitive edge.
CRS Cut-Off Drops to 428: The lowest score for any 2025 Express Entry draw so far.
6,500 ITAs Issued: Targeting candidates with NCLC 7+ in French and CLB 5+ in English.
Francophone Immigration Targets: Canada aims to welcome 30,000+ French-speaking newcomers annually by 2027.
Profile: 32-year-old mechanic from Côte d’Ivoire.
French: NCLC 9 | English: CLB 6
CRS Boosters:
124 points for French fluency.
50 points for foreign work experience + French skills.
65 points for additional factors (Canadian education).
Takeaway: Even without Canadian work experience, strong French proficiency propelled Amadou past the CRS 428 threshold.
Profile: 33-year-old teacher from India.
French: NCLC 7 | English: CLB 10
CRS Boosters:
12 points for French (NCLC 7).
50 points for bilingual bonus.
40 points for 1 year of Canadian work experience.
Takeaway: Moderate French skills + Canadian experience created a winning combination.
Profile: 36-year-old nurse from Nigeria with a spouse.
French: NCLC 7 | English: CLB 8
CRS Boosters:
50 points for bilingual bonus.
25 points from spouse’s education and work experience.
76 points from skills transferability (master’s degree + French).
Takeaway: Couples can maximize points through spousal credentials and strategic language skills.
Up to 310 points for French (single applicants).
Up to 320 points for couples (combined language abilities).
French-language draws feature lower CRS cut-offs than general Express Entry rounds. For example:
2024 General Draws: CRS 500+
2025 French Draw: CRS 428
Canada plans to admit 31,500 Francophone newcomers by 2027 (outside Quebec). This creates sustained opportunities for bilingual candidates.
French: TEF Canada or TCF Canada (NCLC 7+).
English: IELTS/CELPIP (CLB 5+).
Highlight French skills in education/work experience sections.
Update your profile after improving language scores.
Combine French with:
Canadian work experience.
STEM or healthcare credentials.
Spousal factors (education, language).
More Category-Based Draws: IRCC will prioritize French speakers to meet rising targets.
Rural Francophone Pilots: Expect incentives for French speakers in provinces like Ontario and Manitoba.
Fast-Track Processing: Bilingual applications may receive priority handling.
Aim for NCLC 9-10: Maximize points with advanced proficiency.
Pair French with In-Demand Skills: Healthcare, tech, and trades get bonus consideration.
Leverage Spousal Credentials: Add up to 40 points through your partner’s language/education.
CTIV’s licensed consultants specialize in French-language Express Entry strategies. From test prep to profile optimization, we’ll help you:
Calculate your CRS accurately.
Identify gaps in your application.
Submit a standout profile before the next draw.
Book a Free Assessment and join Canada’s thriving Francophone community!
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