First Express Entry Draw For Francophones with Record Invitations

Last Updated On : February 26 , 2025

Canada continues to enhance its efforts to attract French-speaking professionals, and the latest French-speaking Express Entry draw has set a new record!

In Express Entry Draw #337, held on February 19, 2025, 6,500 invitations were issued to candidates with French language proficiency, marking a historic increase compared to previous draws. This aligns with Canada's commitment to boost Francophone immigration outside Quebec and strengthen bilingual communities nationwide.

French-Speaking Express Entry Draw #337 – Key Details

Total Invitations Issued: 6,500
Minimum CRS Score: 428
Date of Draw: February 19, 2025
Draw Type: French Language Proficiency

Express Entry Draw #337 is the largest-ever Express Entry draw focused on French-speaking candidates, making it a great opportunity for Francophones looking to secure permanent residency in Canada.

Increase in French-Speaking Immigration Targets

As part of its 2025-2027 immigration plan, Canada has significantly increased its targets for Francophone immigration outside Quebec:

2024 Target: 19,910 French-speaking PR admissions
2025 Target: 29,325 French-speaking PR admissions
This shows a 47.3% increase in new targets for French-speaking skilled workers.

By 2027, French-speaking immigrants will make up 10% of total admissions outside Quebec, reinforcing Canada's bilingualism and cultural diversity goal.

Last 3 French-Speaking Express Entry Draws Report

Canada has been conducting regular French-speaking Express Entry draws, with a noticeable decline in CRS cut-off scores and an increased number of Invitations, making it easier for candidates to qualify for the program.

The comparative study report for the last 3 draws specific to Francophone immigrants as follows:

ITA For French Speaking Professionals

As shown in the image, the number of Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued in the French Language Proficiency Express Entry draws has seen a dramatic rise—from just 800 invitations in the November 15, 2024, and December 3, 2025, draws to an impressive 6,500 invitations on February 19, 2025.

CRS Score For French-Speaking Professionals

The chart illustrates a significant drop in CRS from 478 on November 15, 2024, to 428 on February 19, 2025. This trend indicates that the Canadian government is making it increasingly accessible for French-speaking candidates to secure an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.

Where Do French-speaking communities Live in Canada?

While Quebec is the primary French-speaking province, many other provinces have significant Francophone populations and offer job opportunities for bilingual professionals.

French is one of Canada's official languages, and French-speaking communities are found across the country, with varying population densities. While Quebec is the heart of Francophone culture, other provinces also have significant French-speaking populations.

1. Quebec – 84.1%

Quebec is the largest French-speaking province in Canada, with over 84% of its population identifying French as their first language. Montreal, Quebec City, and Gatineau are major Francophone hubs, offering French speakers a strong cultural and professional environment.

2. New Brunswick – 30.3%

New Brunswick is Canada's only officially bilingual province, with over 30% of its residents speaking French. The province has a strong Acadian culture, particularly in cities like Moncton, Edmundston, and Bathurst.

3. British Columbia – 6.6%

Despite being an English-dominant province, British Columbia has a growing French-speaking population. Cities like Vancouver and Victoria have active Francophone communities and schools supporting bilingual education.

4. Nunavut – 4.1%

In the northern territory of Nunavut, French-speaking communities are small but present. The government supports bilingual services, and French is spoken alongside Inuktitut and English in some areas.

5. Ontario – 3.8%

Ontario has the second-largest number of French speakers in Canada after Quebec, especially in cities like Ottawa, Sudbury, and Toronto. The province has several Francophone communities, French-language schools, and government services in French.

6. Nova Scotia – 2.9%

Nova Scotia has a historic Acadian population, with communities in regions like Clare and Chéticamp. French is part of the province's cultural heritage, supported by bilingual institutions and local initiatives.

How to Apply for a French-Speaking Express Entry Draw?

If you are a French-speaking professional looking to immigrate to Canada, follow these steps:

Step 1: Check your NOC Code & TEER Category.
Step 2:Improve your CRS score by gaining work experience, higher education, or French-language certification (TEF or TCF).
Step 3: Create an Express Entry profile and select French as your primary language.
Step 4: If you receive an Invitation to Apply(ITA), submit your documents for PR processing

Conclusion

French-speaking communities in Canada are not limited to Quebec. Many provinces have strong Francophone populations, contributing to the country’s bilingual identity. Whether you're a newcomer looking for a French-speaking environment or a professional seeking opportunities, these regions offer a blend of language, culture, and economic prospects.

Canada prioritizes Francophone talent through category-based Express Entry draws and Provincial Nominee Programs, making it easier for skilled professionals to secure permanent residency. If you have strong French language skills and relevant work experience, now is the perfect time to apply for Canada PR and build a successful career in a thriving Francophone-friendly environment.

F.A.Q.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the Express Entry draw for French-speaking professionals: