Express Entry: IRCC Invites 2,500 French-Speaking Candidates in Third Draw

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has invited 2,500 candidates with French language skills to apply for permanent residency. This invitation came through the Express Entry system. Candidates had to score at least 481 points on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to qualify. They also needed to have created their Express Entry profile before 5:16 a.m. UTC on July 18, 2025.

Recent Express Entry Draws

This latest draw is the third one in just one week. It follows a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw on August 7 and a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw on August 6. Earlier in July, IRCC also held a draw focused on healthcare and social services workers.

In 2025 so far, IRCC has issued a total of 53,128 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) through Express Entry.

Draws Focused on Various Groups

Most draws this year focused on the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). PNP allows provinces to pick candidates who meet their local labor needs. IRCC has held 14 PNP draws in 2025.

Other draws targeted the Canadian Experience Class, which has had 8 draws, French-speaking candidates with 4 draws, healthcare and social services workers with 3 draws, and one education-related draw.

Cut-off Scores and Numbers

Each draw has different cut-off scores based on the candidate pool and the program type. For example, the August 7 CEC draw had a higher cut-off score of 534 but invited only 1,000 candidates. The PNP draws usually have higher cut-off scores due to the nomination advantage candidates get.

The French language draw on August 8 had a cut-off score of 481, lower than many PNP draws but higher than some previous French language draws earlier this year.

How to Check Your Profile

Candidates interested in Express Entry should check their Comprehensive Ranking System scores. This helps them see how competitive their profiles are. Those who meet the required CRS can expect to receive invitations when IRCC holds draws.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is the main way Canada manages skilled worker immigration. It includes programs like the Canadian Experience Class, Provincial Nominee Program, and Federal Skilled Worker Program. IRCC uses the CRS points system to rank candidates based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language skills.

Looking Ahead

IRCC will continue holding Express Entry draws regularly in 2025. Candidates who improve their CRS scores by gaining work experience, improving language skills, or earning provincial nominations can increase their chances of receiving an ITA.