Last Updated on March 12, 2025
Canada has kicked off its first French language proficiency Express Entry draw of 2025, issuing an impressive 6,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) on February 19. This significant draw marks a notable increase compared to the previous French-targeted draw on December 3, 2024, where only 800 invitations were issued. The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score for this latest draw was 428, reflecting a 38-point decrease from the last French language proficiency draw. This draw is part of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) ongoing commitment to strengthening French-speaking communities outside Quebec while also working toward its 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan.
Key Highlights of the February 19 Express Entry Draw
- Draw Type: French Language Proficiency
- Number of ITAs Issued: 6,500
- Minimum CRS Score: 428
- Tie-breaking Rule Applied: February 10, 2025, at 4:41 PM UTC
- Application Submission Deadline: 60 days from the date of ITA issuance
This draw was the fourth of February, following two Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draws and one Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw earlier in the month.
February 2025 Express Entry Draw Summary
| Date | Draw Type | Number of ITAs | Minimum CRS Score |
| February 19 | French Language Proficiency | 6,500 | 428 |
| February 17 | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 646 | 750 |
| February 5 | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 4,000 | 521 |
| February 4 | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 455 | 802 |
With 11,601 ITAs issued in February alone, IRCC is continuing to prioritize candidates already in Canada, as outlined in its 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan.
IRCC’s Immigration Strategy: Focus on In-Canada Candidates
Recent Express Entry draws indicate that IRCC is prioritizing in-Canada candidates through CEC and PNP categories. This aligns with Canada’s landings target for 2025-2026, which includes a total of 82,890 admissions under these programs.
It is important to differentiate between invitations (ITAs) and landings (admissions):
- An ITA allows a candidate in the Express Entry pool to submit a permanent residence (PR) application.
- A landing (admission) occurs when a candidate, after receiving PR approval and a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR), officially arrives in Canada.
The 2025-2027 Immigration Levels Plan focuses on increasing landings for Express Entry candidates already living and working in Canada, particularly those in CEC and PNP streams.
How Does 2025 Compare to Previous Express Entry Draws?
So far in 2025, Canada has conducted a total of seven Express Entry draws, including three for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates, three for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applicants, and one for French language proficiency.
Express Entry Draws Conducted in 2024:
- 9 All-Program Draws
- 11 Draws for French-Speaking Candidates
- 1 Draw for Transport Occupations
- 1 Draw for Agriculture & Agri-Food Occupations
- 3 Draws for Healthcare Occupations
- 1 Draw for STEM Occupations
- 14 Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Draws
- 10 Canadian Experience Class (CEC) Draws
- 2 Draws for Trade Occupations
In 2024, IRCC issued a total of 98,903 ITAs, a decrease from 110,266 ITAs in 2023 and 114,431 ITAs in 2021—a record year when all invitations went to CEC and PNP candidates.
Ways to Improve Your CRS Score for Express Entry
To maximize their chances of receiving an ITA, Express Entry candidates should explore various strategies to boost their CRS scores:
1. Obtain a Provincial Nomination:
Receiving a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) nomination adds 600 CRS points, effectively guaranteeing an ITA in the next eligible draw.
2. Improve Language Scores:
Language is a major CRS scoring factor, contributing up to 310 points for single applicants and 320 points for those with a spouse. Higher French or English test scores can significantly improve a candidate’s ranking.
3. Consider a Different Principal Applicant:
In some cases, an accompanying spouse or partner may have a higher CRS score. Switching the principal applicant or submitting separate Express Entry profiles can increase the household’s chances of selection.
4. Gain Additional Educational Credentials:
Education accounts for up to 250 CRS points for candidates who studied in Canada and 200 points for those with foreign education. Obtaining an Education Credential Assessment (ECA) ensures foreign degrees are recognized for CRS points.
5. Accumulate More Work Experience:
Skilled work experience—whether Canadian or foreign—plays a crucial role in CRS scoring. Candidates should also ensure that their current work experience is properly documented to maximize points.
What This Means for Express Entry Candidates
The February 19 French Language Proficiency Express Entry draw demonstrates Canada’s commitment to attracting Francophone talent while continuing its focus on in-Canada applicants. With a record 6,500 invitations issued, this draw signals a shift towards larger, category-based selections in 2025. Candidates aiming for an ITA should consider CRS score improvements, explore PNP options, and ensure their Express Entry profiles remain competitive.
At Growing Globe Immigration, our team of professionals can assess your Express Entry profile, guide you on CRS improvement strategies, and help you navigate PNP opportunities. Contact us today to maximize your chances of securing Canadian permanent residency!
