On October 29, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted Express Entry Draw #376, inviting approximately 6,000 candidates in the French-Language Proficiency category of the Express Entry system. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score in this draw was 416 (French-language proficiency only).
This draw is a clear signal of Canada’s ongoing commitment to attracting French-speaking and bilingual talent, and marks one of the largest single-category draws of recent months.
Key Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
| Date of Draw | October 29, 2025 |
| Draw Type / Category | French-Language Proficiency |
| Invitations Issued (ITAs) | 6,000 |
| Minimum CRS Score | 416 |
| Eligible Applicants | Candidates with French language ability, as per specified category requirements |
Why This Draw Stands Out
1. Substantial Invitation Volume
With 6,000 ITAs issued, this draw expands opportunity significantly within the French-language eligibility category – one of the largest volumes seen in a single category-based draw in 2025.
2. Low CRS Cut-Off Reflects Strategic Priority
A cutoff of 416 places this draw among the most accessible high-volume category rounds of the year. For French-speaking candidates, this is a pivotal opportunity.
3. Reinforcing Francophone and Bilingual Talent Strategy
By focusing on French proficiency and issuing high volumes of invitations, the Government of Canada emphasizes its objective of increasing Francophone immigration outside Quebec and strengthening bilingual workforce capacity across the country.
4. Competitive yet Inclusive Pathway
The category-based approach means that eligible candidates compete within a subset of the pool – specifically, those with French-language ability – which can improve chances for qualified applicants who meet the language threshold and have solid overall profiles.
Trends & Context: French-Language Draws in 2025
| Draw # | Date | Invitations | Minimum CRS | Notes |
| #365 | Sept 4 | 4,500 | 446 | Previous French-language draw |
| #371 | Oct 6 | 4,500 | 432 | Increased volume, lower cut |
| #376 | Oct 29 | 6,000 | 416 | Largest so far, lowest cut |
Trend Insight:
- Invitation volumes have steadily increased in French-language draws, while CRS thresholds have declined – reflecting an expanding pool of qualified French-speaking candidates and Canada’s strategic alignment with bilingual immigration needs.
- The draw #376’s combination of a high invitation count and low cut-off provides one of the most favourable conditions this year for eligible French-speaking applicants.
What This Means for Candidates
For French-Speaking Applicants
If you are proficient in French (via TEF, TCF, or equivalent) and meet other Express Entry eligibility requirements:
- This is an advantageous moment: a cut-off of 416 opens the door for many candidates with moderate CRS but strong French skill.
- Ensure your language test is valid and you’ve claimed all CRS points for French as second language where applicable.
- Being bilingual (English + French) can further boost your profile and enhance competitiveness.
For Non-French or Basic-Level French Applicants
- Consider intensive French language training or retaking TEF/TCF to secure higher scores.
- Explore alternate streams: category-based draws (education, trades, healthcare) or provincial nominee programs (PNPs) if your French proficiency isn’t yet strong.
- Use this draw as motivation to build your profile: enhance language, enrich Canadian work experience, explore job offers, and assess education credentials.
For All Applicants
- Update your Express Entry profile: ensure your French language scores are entered and any bilingualism or second-language ability is reflected.
- Keep documents ready: as soon as you receive an ITA, you’ll typically have 60 days to submit your application – have credentials, language results, employment proofs, and any translation certified ready.
- Monitor upcoming draws and eligibility changes: category draws can open unexpected opportunities; being prepared is key.
Strategic Action Plan
| Step | Action |
| 1 | Review your Express Entry profile and verify your French language test (TEF/TCF) details. |
| 2 | If eligible, confirm you’ve selected “French Language Proficiency” category on your profile and claimed the CRS points for French as appropriate. |
| 3 | Assess your CRS score — even if below 416, explore steps to improve (language, experience, credentials). |
| 4 | Prepare all supporting documentation in advance: language results, ECA, work experience references, translations. |
| 5 | Track provincial nominee programs and other category draws as backup pathways. |
| 6 | Contact Earnest Immigration for personalised strategy and guidance. |
How Earnest Immigration Can Assist
At Earnest Immigration, we specialise in guiding candidates through the intricacies of Express Entry’s category-based draws, including French-language streams. Our expert support includes:
- Full profile assessment: a clear breakdown of your CRS, points for French and English, and eligibility.
- Language strategy planning: advice on achieving TEF/TCF scores and leveraging bilingual advantages.
- Documentation readiness coaching: ensuring all required proofs are accurate, translated, and submitted on time.
- Pathway diversification: identifying your best routes – whether through French category draws, PNPs, or other targeted streams.
Get in touch with Earnest Immigration today to capitalise on Draw #376 and build your Canadian permanent residency path with confidence.
