Express Entry
Canada Targets French-Speaking Candidates in New Express Entry Draw #360, Issues 2,500 ITAs with a CRS Score 481
Canada is once again opening doors to Francophone talent. On August 8, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held its third Express Entry draw #360 of the week, inviting 2,500 candidates with French language proficiency to apply for permanent residency. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score was 481, making this a golden opportunity for skilled French-speaking applicants aiming to build their future in Canada.
Express Entry Draw #360 Highlights
Here’s a breakdown of the draw results:
| Draw Number | Date | Category | ITAs Issued | Minimum CRS Score | Tie-Breaking Rule |
| 360 | Aug 8, 2025 | French language proficiency (V1) | 2,500 | 481 | July 18, 2025 at 05:16:06 UTC |
The tie-breaking rule ensures fairness by prioritizing profiles submitted earlier in the pool if multiple candidates share the same CRS score.
Why Target French-Speaking Candidates?
This draw reflects Canada’s continued strategy to strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec. By offering category-based draws for French speakers, IRCC aims to:
- Increase the proportion of French-speaking newcomers in provinces and territories outside Quebec
- Support bilingual workforces in industries with high demand
- Address demographic needs in smaller cities and rural regions
For candidates, this means French language proficiency can give a competitive edge, especially when cut-off scores for other categories are higher.
Advantages of French Language Proficiency in Express Entry
French-speaking candidates benefit in multiple ways:
- Lower CRS cut-offs in targeted draws compared to many general or PNP-specific rounds
- Additional CRS points for bilingualism (English and French)
- Greater eligibility for both federal and provincial immigration streams targeting Francophone talent
For example, while recent all-program draws often require scores above 530, this French language category accepted candidates at 481, offering more accessible entry for skilled professionals.
Express Entry Trends in 2025 – A Year of Targeted Selection
So far in 2025, IRCC has issued 53,128 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) across 30 Express Entry draws. The draw breakdown shows a clear focus on targeted immigration:
| Draw Type | Number of Draws |
| Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 14 |
| Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 8 |
| French-language proficiency | 4 |
| Healthcare & social services | 3 |
| Education | 1 |
The heavy emphasis on PNP and category-based draws shows Canada’s intent to align immigration intake with labour market priorities and regional population goals.
Preparing for a French Language Express Entry Draw
If you’re aiming to qualify for future French language draws:
- Take an approved French language test (TEF Canada or TCF Canada) and score high in all sections.
- Keep your Express Entry profile updated with accurate language test details.
- Consider applying for bilingual positions that may also lead to a provincial nomination.
- Combine French and English proficiency for maximum CRS points.
French Language Skills Are Your Ticket to Canada
The Canada targets French-speaking candidates in new Express Entry draw #360 strategy is more than just a short-term push, it’s part of a long-term plan to strengthen bilingualism and regional growth. With lower CRS thresholds and dedicated invitation rounds, French speakers have a clear advantage in the 2025 immigration landscape.
If you’re a skilled professional with strong French abilities, now is the time to prepare your profile. The next targeted draw could be your opportunity to make Canada your new home. Stay tuned and updated with Canada Immigration News!
