Express Entry
Canada’s French-Language Category in the Express Entry: What you need to know!
Canada has long been a land of opportunity for immigrants worldwide. With its thriving economy, excellent healthcare, and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder that so many people dream of calling Canada home.
The Canadian government has added something new to the Express Entry system to make sure there’s more variety in the languages people speak in the country. They created a special category just for French speakers. The blog will delve into the details of this exciting development and how it might benefit prospective immigrants.
Know Express Entry First
Before delving into the French Category-Based Express Entry Selection, it’s essential to grasp the basics of the Express Entry system. The Express Entry system is Canada’s flagship immigration management system. Introduced in 2015, it has streamlined the immigration process for economic immigrants. The system manages three primary immigration categories: the Federal Skilled Worker Class, the Federal Skilled Trades Class, and the Canadian Experience Class.
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS)
At the core of the Express Entry process lies the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This finely tuned scoring mechanism evaluates candidates, taking into account facets like age, educational history, work experience, and language proficiency. The CRS score plays a pivotal role in shaping an applicant’s position, ultimately deciding who receives invitations toward securing permanent residency in Canada.
Recent Developments in Express Entry 2023
As immigration trends evolve, the Canadian government adapts its policies to cater to the changing needs of the country. One notable development is the introduction of category-based selection draws. Canada’s new category-based selection system, announced by Sean Fraser on May 31, allows the immigration minister to choose economic immigrants based on specific characteristics rather than their total CRS score. Categories include healthcare, transportation, trades, strong French language skills, agriculture, and STEM professions.
By the end of 2023, Canada aims to admit 82,880 new immigrants through Express Entry, with the goal increasing to 114,000 by 2025, as per the Immigration Levels Plan 2023–2025.
Focus on the New French Language Category
The latest development took flight with the conduction of the category-based draws in the French-language category. Held on July 07, 2023, the Express Entry draw invited 2,300 candidates under the French-Language Proficiency category. To qualify, candidates needed a minimum CRS score of 439. This draw was a significant step towards recognizing the importance of French as one of Canada’s official languages. Here’s what you need to know about this new category!
Eligibility for French Category-Based Express Entry
- Must qualify under Express Entry Programs (FSWP, FSTP, or CEC.)
- Show French proficiency via TEF or TCF tests.
- Achieve CLB 7 in French (all four abilities).
- Demonstrate at least CLB 4 in English.
- Earn 1 point in the Express Entry language grid for both languages.
Impact on Express Entry Candidates
The introduction of this French-language category is a game-changer for Express Entry candidates who are fluent in French. This is a prime chance to enhance your CRS scores and secure an invitation for Canadian permanent residency. Boost your Express Entry odds in this category by improving your French, pursuing higher education, and gaining Canadian work experience as a French-speaking immigrant.
