Latest Express Entry Draw Invites 5,000 French Speaking Applicants

IRCC continued to put emphasis on French speaking applicants through its category based Express Entry draw, creating more Canada PR opportunities.

However, this is the eleventh French-language draw of 2026 and brings the total number of ITAs issued through the French category this year to 55,500.

These targeted draws are part of Canada's strategy to strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec while addressing labour market needs across the country. 

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Express Entry Draw #450: Results

IRCC has announced the latest Express Entry draw on October 16,2026, inviting 5,000 qualified professionals with a minimum CRS score of 435.

Draw Type: French-Language proficiency 2026-Version 2

• Date and time: October 16, 2026 at 10:25:13 UTC
• CRS score of lowest-ranked candidate invited: 435
• Number of invitations issued: 5,000
• Rank needed: 5,000 or above
• Tie-breaking rule: October 06, 2026 at 21:31:22 UTC

If more than one candidate has the lowest score, the cut-off is based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles.

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Express Entry - French language proficiency draw Summary 2026

The mentioned below table offers an overview of the French language Express Entry draws conducted in the year, helping candidates track invitation trends and CRS score requirements.

French Language Proficiency Requirements for Canada Express Entry

French language skills play a significant role in Canada Express Entry program. IRCC encourages Francophone immigration to strengthen French speaking communities outside Quebec to support economic growth.

Applicants with strong French proficiency skills can earn up to 50 additional CRS points and might become eligible for French language category based draw.

To qualify for this category, applicants generally require NCLC 7 or higher in all four French language skills abilities, along with the applicable Express Entry requirements. Fulfilling these eligibility requirements does not automatically guarantee an ITA for Canada PR.

IRCC accepts two French-language tests for Express Entry:

• TEF Canada (Test d’évaluation de français)
• TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français)

These measures support Canada’s continuous focus on attracting French speaking skilled immigrants and strengthen Francophone communities across the country.

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Source: canada.ca

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