In a significant development, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted its first French-language-specific draw of December under the Express Entry system. This draw saw 800 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) issued to candidates demonstrating strong French-language proficiency. Applicants required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 466 to qualify, reflecting Canada’s ongoing efforts to attract French-speaking immigrants to strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec.
December Draw Details
The December 3rd draw follows closely on the heels of another draw on December 2nd for candidates in the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), where 676 ITAs were issued with a minimum CRS score of 705.
Summary of December Express Entry Draws
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Minimum CRS |
| December 3 | French Language Proficiency | 800 | 466 |
| December 2 | Provincial Nominee Program | 676 | 705 |
Overview of November Express Entry Activity
In November, IRCC conducted six Express Entry draws, issuing 5,507 ITAs across multiple categories, including healthcare occupations and French-language proficiency. Below is a detailed breakdown of Express Entry activities for November and December 2024:
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Minimum CRS |
| December 3 | French Language Proficiency | 800 | 466 |
| December 2 | Provincial Nominee Program | 676 | 705 |
| November 20 | Healthcare Occupations | 3,000 | 463 |
| November 19 | Canadian Experience Class | 400 | 539 |
| November 18 | Provincial Nominee Program | 174 | 816 |
| November 15 | French Language Proficiency | 800 | 478 |
| November 13 | Canadian Experience Class | 400 | 547 |
| November 12 | Provincial Nominee Program | 733 | 812 |
| October 23 | Trade Occupations | 1,800 | 433 |
| October 22 | Canadian Experience Class | 400 | 539 |
| October 21 | Provincial Nominee Program | 648 | 791 |
| October 10 | French Language Proficiency | 1,000 | 444 |
| October 9 | Canadian Experience Class | 500 | 539 |
| October 7 | Provincial Nominee Program | 1,613 | 743 |
Trends in Francophone Immigration
Canada’s commitment to increasing Francophone immigration is evident through its Francophone Immigration Strategy. The plan outlines significant increases in PR admissions for French-speaking candidates outside Quebec, with allocations rising to 29,235 admissions in 2025 and expected further increases in 2026 and 2027.
This focus aligns with the broader objectives of the 2024 Immigration Levels Plan, which aims to issue 82,980 permanent residence (PR) admissions under category-based selections. These categories target candidates in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
How Express Entry Works
Express Entry is Canada’s flagship system for managing applications for permanent residency under the following federal economic immigration programs:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Additionally, candidates in Express Entry-aligned PNP streams are eligible for enhanced provincial nominations, which add 600 CRS points to their profile and virtually guarantee an ITA.
Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS):
Applicants are evaluated based on age, language proficiency, work experience, and education. Additional points can be earned by:
- Having a sibling in Canada.
- Applying with a spouse or common-law partner.
- Combining education and work experience gained in Canada and abroad.
IRCC’s introduction of category-based draws has also lowered CRS cut-offs for specific professions and language abilities, making it easier for targeted candidates to receive ITAs.
How SWEC Visa Can Help
Navigating Express Entry and Canada’s evolving immigration strategies can be challenging, but SWEC Visa is here to simplify the process. We specialize in helping candidates improve their CRS scores through tailored strategies, such as language skill enhancements, provincial nominations, and optimizing work experience documentation.
With IRCC’s increasing focus on French-language proficiency and other category-based selections, our team of experts at SWEC Visa can guide you every step of the way. Get a free assessment today and take the first step towards making Canada your home!
Conclusion
The latest Express Entry draws, including the French-language-focused selection, highlight Canada’s dedication to attracting skilled immigrants who align with its labour market and demographic goals. Whether you are a French-speaking candidate, a skilled worker, or part of a provincial nominee program, a SWEC Visa can help you secure your Canadian permanent residency. Contact us today to begin your journey!
