IRCC invites Express Entry candidates in first French-language draw

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction to the Latest Express Entry Draw
2. What is Express Entry?
3. Key Details of the Latest Draw for French-Speaking Candidates
4. CRS Score Requirements and Category-Based Selections
5. Impact of Recent and Future Immigration Trends on Canadian Immigration
6. The Role of Wave Visas and Wave Immigration Consultant in Your Immigration Journey
7. Conclusion

1. Introduction to the Latest Express Entry Draw

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently issued more Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in the latest Express Entry draw. This round of invitations, which took place in December, focused on candidates with strong French-language proficiency. A total of 800 candidates were invited to apply, and the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required was 466. This marks the second Express Entry draw of December, following a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)-focused selection earlier in the month.

As we move into 2025, Canadian immigration is expected to see more category-based selections, further increasing the chances of applicants, especially those proficient in French, to receive ITAs. In this blog, we’ll explore how this draw, along with upcoming trends, affects Canadian immigration and how you can benefit from these opportunities.

Summary of Express Entry draws in 2024

2. What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is an online system used by the Canadian government to manage applications for three major federal economic immigration programs:

1. Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
2. Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
3. Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

In addition to these programs, candidates who are nominated through an Express Entry-aligned Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) stream may also be invited through the Express Entry system. Applicants are evaluated based on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assigns points for factors like age, education, language skills, and work experience.

A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points, significantly improving the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Category-based selections, introduced in 2023, invite candidates with specific skills or qualifications to apply, further diversifying the pool of potential immigrants.

3. Key Details of the Latest Draw for French-Speaking Candidates

The latest Express Entry draw issued 800 ITAs specifically for candidates with French language proficiency. To be considered, candidates needed a minimum CRS score of 466. This draw is part of Canada’s ongoing effort to encourage Francophone immigration outside of Quebec, in line with its Francophone Immigration Strategy.

This move aligns with Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan, which allocates 82,980 permanent residency (PR) admissions for the “In-Canada” focus category. This category will prioritize candidates from the Canadian Experience Class and other regional programs, but it will also include applicants from the Federal Skilled Worker Program and the Federal Skilled Trades Program.

4. CRS Score Requirements and Category-Based Selections

In the recent draw, the CRS score cut-off for French-speaking candidates was 466. The CRS score is an important part of the selection process for Express Entry, and it is based on factors such as:

• Age
• Work experience
• Education level
• Language proficiency (in either English or French)

Candidates with higher CRS scores are more likely to receive an ITA, especially when they meet the specific criteria for a particular draw. With category-based selections, such as those for French speakers, candidates who meet specific language or professional requirements might be invited even with lower CRS scores compared to general draws.

This targeted approach helps Canada meet its labor market and demographic goals by attracting individuals with skills that are in demand, such as those who are proficient in French.

5. Impact of Recent and Future Immigration Trends on Canadian Immigration

The trends in Express Entry draws indicate a significant shift in Canadian immigration priorities. The focus on French-speaking candidates is expected to increase, with a planned allocation of 29,235 PR admissions for French speakers outside of Quebec in 2025. The number of ITAs for this category is expected to grow in 2026 and 2027, in line with Canada’s Francophone Immigration Strategy.

Moreover, category-based selections are likely to become a more prominent feature of Express Entry draws in the future. The introduction of the new “In-Canada” focus category highlights Canada’s goal to increase permanent residency admissions for candidates already living and working in Canada, particularly those in the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

For anyone looking to apply through Express Entry, this means more opportunities and a changing landscape for Canadian immigration.

6. The Role of Wave Visas and Wave Immigration Consultant in Your Immigration Journey

If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, especially under Express Entry, it’s important to have a reliable partner to guide you through the process. Wave Visas is a leading immigration consultancy that can assist you in understanding the intricacies of the Express Entry system, maximizing your CRS score, and selecting the right immigration program for you.

Wave Immigration Consultant offers tailored advice based on your unique situation, helping you navigate through category-based selections, such as French language proficiency or provincial nominations. With their expertise, you can increase your chances of receiving an ITA and make your immigration journey smoother.

Whether you are applying through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), or any other program, Wave Visas is your trusted partner in achieving Canadian permanent residency.

7. Conclusion

The latest Express Entry draw continues Canada’s focus on attracting skilled immigrants, with an emphasis on French-speaking candidates. This is part of a broader trend that aims to meet Canada’s labor market and demographic needs by welcoming immigrants with skills that match specific requirements. The growing number of category-based selections makes it a great time for prospective immigrants to explore their options.

If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada, the expertise of Wave Visas and Wave Immigration Consultant can help you navigate this complex and ever-changing immigration landscape. With the right guidance, your chance of success in Canada’s Express Entry draws can increase

significantly, opening doors to a bright future in Canada.

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