Express Entry
Latest Express Entry Draw #401 Invites 5,500 French-Speaking Candidates With CRS Cutoff of 397
Canada continues to use targeted immigration draws to attract skilled individuals who can contribute to the country’s economic growth and cultural diversity. The latest Express Entry draw #401 has once again highlighted Canada’s focus on welcoming French-speaking talent outside Quebec.
In the third Express Entry draw held during the first week of March 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada issued 5,500 Invitations to Apply for permanent residence to candidates with strong French language skills. The draw required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System score of 397, which is significantly lower than many general Express Entry draws.
This latest Express Entry French proficiency draw is part of Canada’s strategy to strengthen Francophone communities across the country and meet long term immigration goals related to bilingualism.
For many candidates in the Express Entry pool, this draw represents a major opportunity to secure Canadian permanent residence.
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Express Entry Draw #401 Targets Skilled Candidates With French Language Skills
The recent Express Entry French proficiency draw invited 5,500 candidates who demonstrated strong ability in the French language. Category-based draws allow Canada to select candidates with specific skills or characteristics that support national priorities.
To qualify under the French language category, candidates must demonstrate a minimum level 7 in all four language abilities under the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens scale.
These language abilities include:
- Reading
- Writing
- Listening
- Speaking
Accepted tests include TEF Canada and TCF Canada. Candidates must also be eligible under one of the three main Express Entry programs.
Express Entry Programs Eligible for French Language Category
| Program | Description |
| Federal Skilled Worker Program | For skilled professionals with foreign work experience |
| Canadian Experience Class | For individuals with Canadian work experience |
| Federal Skilled Trades Program | For candidates working in skilled trades |
Meeting the language requirement does not automatically guarantee an invitation. Candidates still compete within the Express Entry pool based on their overall CRS scores.
Express Entry French Proficiency Draw Shows Canada’s Focus on Francophone Immigration
The latest Express Entry French proficiency draw aligns with Canada’s national goal of increasing the number of French speaking immigrants outside Quebec. Canada aims to ensure that 9 percent of new permanent residents admitted in 2026 will be French speakers living outside Quebec. This target will gradually increase to 12 percent by 2029.
By issuing large draws for French speaking candidates early in the year, Canada can support these long term immigration goals. Candidates who receive invitations in early months typically complete their immigration process later in the year. This timing helps Canada meet its annual immigration targets. French speaking immigrants also support the development of Francophone communities across several provinces including Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and New Brunswick.
Express Entry Draw Summary for Early March 2026
Immigration authorities have been very active during the first week of March 2026. Three draws were conducted within a few days, issuing thousands of invitations.
Express Entry Draws in Early March 2026
| Draw Number | Date | Category | Invitations | CRS Cutoff |
| Draw 401 | March 4, 2026 | French proficiency | 5,500 | 397 |
| Draw 400 | March 3, 2026 | Canadian Experience Class | 4,000 | 508 |
| Draw 399 | March 2, 2026 | Provincial Nominee Program | 264 | 710 |
In just three draws, 9,764 invitations were issued to Express Entry candidates. This strong pace suggests that Canada is actively working to meet its immigration targets for 2026.
Why CRS Scores Are Lower in French Language Draws
One reason the Express Entry French proficiency draw received attention is the relatively low CRS cutoff of 397. Category based draws allow immigration authorities to select candidates with specific skills rather than relying solely on the highest CRS scores. French language proficiency is currently a priority because Canada wants to strengthen bilingual communities across the country.
As a result, candidates who demonstrate strong French skills may receive invitations even with lower overall CRS scores compared to general draws.
For individuals considering immigration to Canada, learning French can significantly improve their chances of receiving an invitation.
How the Tie Breaking Rule Works in Express Entry
When multiple candidates receive the same CRS score, immigration authorities apply a tie-breaking rule. The rule uses the exact timestamp of when candidates submitted their Express Entry profiles.
For the March 4 Express Entry French proficiency draw, the tie breaking date was October 10, 2025 at 18:18:20 UTC.
This means that candidates with 397 points who submitted their profiles before this timestamp received invitations. Candidates who submitted later may need to wait for future draws.
What Happens After Receiving an Invitation to Apply
Candidates who receive an invitation through the Express Entry French proficiency draw must submit their complete permanent residence application within 60 days. During this period, applicants must upload the required documents, including:
- Police certificates
- Medical examination results
- Proof of funds
- Work experience documents
Most Express Entry permanent residence applications are processed within approximately six months once a complete application is submitted. After approval, candidates receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence and can complete their landing process in Canada.
Express Entry Draw #401 Creates Opportunities for French Speaking Candidates
The latest Express Entry French proficiency draw demonstrates Canada’s continued focus on welcoming French speaking immigrants who can contribute to communities across the country. With 5,500 invitations issued and a CRS cutoff of 397, this draw offers a valuable opportunity for candidates with strong French language skills to secure Canadian permanent residence. Canada continues to use targeted immigration strategies to attract skilled professionals, support Francophone communities, and strengthen economic growth.
Candidates who have French language ability should consider updating their Express Entry profiles and ensuring their language test results are valid. To stay informed about the latest Express Entry draws, immigration updates, and opportunities, stay connected with Canada Immigration News for reliable immigration insights.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Express Entry French Proficiency Draw
1. What was the CRS score for the March 4, 2026 Express Entry French proficiency draw?
The Comprehensive Ranking System cutoff score for the March 4, 2026 Express Entry French proficiency draw was 397 points. Immigration authorities invited 5,500 candidates with strong French language ability to apply for permanent residence. This score is lower than many general Express Entry draws because the selection targeted candidates with French language proficiency.
2. How many invitations were issued in the March 4, 2026 Express Entry draw?
A total of 5,500 Invitations to Apply were issued in the March 4, 2026 Express Entry draw. This was a category based selection draw focused on candidates who demonstrated strong French language skills.
3. What is the French proficiency category in Express Entry?
The French proficiency category is a targeted selection under Express Entry that focuses on candidates who demonstrate strong ability in the French language. Immigration authorities use these draws to support Francophone communities outside Quebec and promote bilingualism across Canada.
4. What French language score is required for this Express Entry category?
Candidates must achieve a minimum level 7 in all four language abilities under the Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens scale. These abilities include reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Accepted tests include TEF Canada and TCF Canada.
5. Can candidates with lower CRS scores receive invitations in French proficiency draws?
Yes. Candidates who demonstrate strong French language skills may receive invitations even if their CRS scores are lower than those typically required in general Express Entry draws. Category based draws focus on specific skills rather than only the highest CRS scores.
6. Which immigration programs are eligible for the French language category?
Candidates must be eligible under one of the three Express Entry programs. These programs include the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Applicants must meet the eligibility requirements of at least one of these programs.
7. Why does Canada prioritize French speaking immigrants?
Canada aims to strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec. The government has set a goal that 9 percent of new permanent residents admitted in 2026 will be French speakers outside Quebec. This target is expected to increase to 12 percent by 2029.
8. How does the Express Entry tie breaking rule work?
When multiple candidates have the same CRS score, immigration authorities apply a tie breaking rule based on the timestamp of profile submission. Candidates who submitted their Express Entry profiles earlier receive priority for invitations.
9. What happens after receiving an Invitation to Apply in Express Entry?
Candidates who receive an Invitation to Apply must submit their complete permanent residence application within 60 days. Required documents include medical exams, police certificates, proof of work experience, and proof of funds.
10. When is the next Express Entry draw expected?
Based on current patterns, the next Express Entry draw is expected around March 16, 2026, likely targeting the Provincial Nominee Program. However, immigration authorities may adjust the schedule depending on immigration priorities and program needs.
