IRCC Announces First French language Proficiency Draw In December

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a French-speaking Express Entry draw in December 2025, creating a significant opportunity for Francophone candidates seeking Canadian permanent residence.

This marked the 9th French-language proficiency draw, and, notably, IRCC invited candidates with the second-lowest CRS score recorded in the French-speaking category in 2025 to apply for Canada PR.

Beyond the numbers, this targeted draw reinforces Canada’s ongoing commitment to attracting French-speaking skilled workers outside Quebec. It also supports the country’s broader goal of strengthening Francophone communities across provinces and promoting linguistic diversity.

Result of Express Entry Draw

Canada held its latest Express Entry draw on December 17, 2025, issuing 6000 ITAs with a minimum CRS score of 399.

• Draw number: #388
• Draw date: December 17, 2025
• Type of round: French language proficiency
• Number of invitations: 6,000
• CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 399
• Tie-breaking rule: August 24, 2025, at 23:43:05 UTC

If more than one candidate has the lowest score, the cut-off is determined by the date and time of their Express Entry profile submission.

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Summary of the French Speaker Draw of 2025

In 2025, IRCC conducted multiple French-Speaking Express Entry draws, issuing thousands of ITAs to Francophone candidates.

The CRS cut-off scores steadily declined throughout the year, reaching 399 in the December 17, 2025, draw, during which 6,000 invitations were issued, making French proficiency one of the most accessible pathways to Canadian PR in 2025.

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How Can You Increase Your CRS Score?

Increasing your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score is one of the most effective ways to improve your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry.

Candidates can boost their CRS score by improving their IELTS, CELPIP, or TEF language scores, as higher language scores contribute significantly to the overall score.

Gaining additional skilled work experience in Canada or abroad, completing higher levels of education, and obtaining a valid Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) can also add valuable points.

Other effective strategies include securing a provincial nomination through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw, which adds 600 CRS points, and enhancing your profile through spouse-related factors such as language scores or education.

Additionally, improving French proficiency can unlock additional CRS points and increase eligibility for category-based Express Entry draws, providing a substantial advantage for candidates applying for Canadian PR.

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Source: canada.ca

Tags: Express Entry Express Entry Latest Draw Express Entry Program French language Proficiency Draw Express Entry Draw Canada Immigration Federal Skilled Worker Program Latest Express Entry Draw Canada Immigration News