Immigration Announcement
More Newcomers Choose French as a Strategic Pathway to Permanent Residency in Canada
Getting permanent residency in Canada is becoming more competitive than ever. Thousands of international students and workers—despite having advanced degrees—are now finding themselves just short of the points needed to qualify for Express Entry and other immigration pathways. In response, many have turned to a powerful tool that can give them a critical edge: learning French.
Across the country, especially in Ontario, international students are investing time, energy, and thousands of dollars into French classes. Not just to learn a second language, but to secure their future in Canada. This growing trend is especially strong among students and professionals in tech, engineering, and business fields who are otherwise left out of more traditional PR streams.
French Language Skills: A Real Advantage for Express Entry Candidates
In Canada’s current immigration system, every point matters. The Express Entry program is based on a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), where language proficiency can significantly influence a candidate’s score. While most focus on English, French can be a game-changer.
Here’s how French helps:
- Extra CRS Points: Candidates can earn up to 50 additional points for strong French abilities, even without a job offer.
- Dedicated Francophone Streams: Some provinces have draws specifically for French-speaking candidates.
- Better Job Prospects: Bilingual candidates are in high demand in many parts of Canada, especially in government and customer-facing roles.
With only around 395,000 permanent residency spots available this year and over 3 million temporary residents competing, learning French has become more than just an option—it’s now a smart investment.
Real-Life Stories: Newcomers Betting Big on French
Take Harbal Deep Sidhu, a 25-year-old graduate from Punjab, India. After completing his master’s in mechanical engineering from the University of Windsor—at a cost of $42,000—he’s now spending another $2,000 each month on French classes.
“I study French for two hours daily,” he said. “I know it’s the only way I can stay here permanently. The cutoff is too high otherwise.”
Sidhu, like many others, is racing against time. His work permit only gives him two more years in Canada. With Express Entry draws becoming more selective, he believes French may be his only viable path to PR.
He’s also preparing for official French language certifications, which come with additional costs. “I’m still investing in this country,” he says, “but I feel like I’m not getting anything back in return.”
French Opens Doors for Non-Health and Non-Trade Professionals
Another student, Gurasees Singh, is studying computer systems networking at St. Clair College. While PR programs for health and trades are expanding, many in the tech field don’t qualify. “French is the only option that makes sense for us,” Singh explains.
He’s considering online classes, Duolingo, and private tutors. Like many others, he sees French not as an academic challenge, but as a lifeline.
Why French Works
| Benefits of Learning French | Impact on PR |
| Extra CRS points | Boosts Express Entry score |
| Eligibility for special draws | Better chances in provinces like Ontario and New Brunswick |
| Better job options | More roles in bilingual workplaces |
| Permanent residence boost | Faster PR access for French-speaking candidates |
Resources for Learning French in Canada
Whether you’re an international student, tech professional, or temporary worker, here are some accessible French-learning tools:
- Duolingo Premium: Affordable and flexible for daily practice
- Government-funded programs: Many provinces offer free or low-cost classes
- Private tutors: For targeted learning and test prep
- YouTube channels and online courses: Great for beginners
- Alliance Française Canada: Offers DELF and DALF test preparation
French Can Be Your Fast-Track to Permanent Residency in Canada
As competition for permanent residency increases, French is no longer just a bonus skill—it’s a strategic necessity for many. For students and workers outside traditional PR streams, fluency in French can provide access to new pathways, more points, and real opportunities to stay in Canada long-term.
If you’re serious about your future in this country, learning French might be the smartest move you make this year. The race for PR is tough, but with French, you may just get ahead.
