Latest Express Entry Draw: Cut-Off Score Drops Below 400

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 4,000 invitations to apply (ITA) through its Express Entry system in the latest draw. This draw specifically targeted candidates with proficiency in the French language, marking another step in Canada’s ongoing immigration process.

Details of the Latest Draw

To be considered for this draw, applicants needed to meet certain requirements. They had to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 393. Additionally, candidates had to have created their Express Entry profile before 12:47 p.m. Universal Coordinated Time (UTC) on December 29, 2025. This draw is the 17th of the year and the third one focusing on French-speaking candidates.

The 4,000 invitations issued in this draw are part of a wider effort to boost the number of immigrants proficient in French, in line with Canada’s bilingual heritage. This is part of an ongoing trend in Express Entry draws throughout 2026, which have placed a strong emphasis on immigration candidates with Canadian work experience and provincial nominations.

French-Language Draws So Far in 2026

Despite this being only the third French-language draw of the year, it has already seen impressive numbers. So far, 18,000 invitations have been issued under this category in 2026. This makes it the second most active draw category after the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), which has issued a larger number of invitations.

Focus on Canadian Work Experience and Provincial Nominations

In 2026, IRCC’s Express Entry draws have been largely focused on candidates already in Canada, particularly those with provincial nominations or Canadian work experience. This strategy reflects the increasing importance of retaining individuals who have already demonstrated their ability to contribute to Canada’s economy and society.

The latest draws have also included specific focus on certain categories such as healthcare and social services, as well as senior managers with Canadian work experience. These categories reflect Canada’s evolving need for skilled workers in key sectors.

Total Invitations Issued So Far in 2026

As of now, the IRCC has issued a total of 53,604 invitations through Express Entry draws in 2026. The Canadian Experience Class remains the largest draw type, with 28,000 invitations issued, followed by the French-Language proficiency category with 18,000. Other categories such as healthcare and social services, and provincial nominees, have also seen significant numbers of ITAs.

In the latest Express Entry draw, IRCC issued 4,000 invitations to candidates with French language skills. The draw, which had a CRS score cut-off of 393, is part of a broader strategy to attract immigrants with valuable language skills and experience in Canada. The French-language category has seen strong interest this year, contributing to the overall success of Canada’s immigration efforts. So far in 2026, over 53,000 ITAs have been issued across various draw types, focusing on both domestic and international candidates.