Express Entry
Latest Express Entry Draw #376 Issues 6,000 Invitations for French Language Skilled Workers
Canada continues to advance its immigration priorities with a strong emphasis on bilingual talent. The latest Express Entry Draw #376, held on October 29 2025, resulted in 6,000 Invitations to Apply for permanent residence being issued to candidates who demonstrated French language proficiency. This draw reflects a clear and ongoing shift in Canada’s immigration selection strategy, where French-speaking applicants are increasingly receiving priority across the Express Entry system.
The draw required candidates to have language results equal to Canadian Language Benchmark Level 7 or higher in all four skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening. Applicants selected in this round were drawn from the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
Key Results of Express Entry Draw #376
| Factor | Result |
| Type of Draw | French Language Proficiency Category |
| Invitations Issued | 6,000 |
| Minimum CRS Score | 416 |
| Eligible Programs | FSWP, CEC, FSTP |
| Language Level Required | CLB 7 or higher |
| Tie Breaking Rule Date | September 8 2025 at 15:27:09 UTC |
The CRS score of 416 is notably lower than what has been seen in many recent general or program-specific draws. This provides a clear advantage to skilled individuals who can demonstrate strong French language skills, even if their overall CRS score is not exceptionally high.
Why Canada Continues to Prioritize French-Speaking Candidates
Canada has outlined clear goals to increase the number of French-speaking permanent residents, especially in provinces and communities outside Quebec. This policy supports multiple national objectives:
• Strengthening bilingual and multilingual communities
• Encouraging economic growth in regions with aging populations
• Supporting industries where labour shortages remain high
• Promoting long-term cultural and population diversity
The federal immigration strategy aims to create growth that is evenly distributed across the country. Increasing the number of French-speaking newcomers helps smaller cities and rural communities attract skilled workers, retain families, and build stable local economies.
Impact of the CRS Cutoff at 416
The cutoff score of 416 is meaningful for many candidates who may feel that their CRS score is not high enough to compete in general draws. Strong French proficiency provides added CRS points and places candidates in a more favourable category. This can result in selection sooner than expected.
Candidates who currently have CRS scores in the range of 400 to 470 may benefit significantly by improving their French language skills. A focused language study plan can make a measurable difference in eligibility.
Where the Express Entry System May Be Heading Next
The release of the new Immigration Levels Plan is expected soon. The previous plan set targets for francophone permanent residents at 8.5 percent for 2025. Based on data from Express Entry Draw 376, Canada is already well-positioned to exceed this target.
The next plan, which will outline projections for 2026 to 2028, is likely to continue to highlight French-speaking candidates and possibly raise bilingual immigration targets even further. Candidates waiting in the pool should monitor draw patterns closely and assess whether a French language strategy could strengthen their profile.
How Candidates Can Prepare
If you are planning to enter or update your Express Entry profile, consider the following steps:
• Take an official French language exam such as TEF or TCF
• Improve language test results to CLB 7 or above
• Gain additional work experience in Canada, if possible
• Consider studying or working in bilingual regions where French is valued
• Update your profile whenever new information or scores are available
Even modest improvements in French test scores can shift eligibility in your favour.
The latest Express Entry Draw #376 confirms a clear direction in Canada’s immigration system. The priority placed on French-speaking candidates is consistent and strategic, reflecting broader goals to support bilingual growth, expand economic development and strengthen communities across the country. With 6,000 invitations issued and a CRS cutoff of 416, candidates with strong French language abilities continue to have a major advantage in the Express Entry process.
