French Language Proficiency: A Powerful Advantage in Express Entry (2025 Update)
Are you fluent in French, or ready to be? If so, your language skills could give you a powerful boost under Canada’s current immigration framework, especially through Express Entry. Here’s how French truly gives you an edge:
1. Extra CRS Points for French Proficiency
Express Entry uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, and language ability.
As a French speaker:
Score a Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens (NCLC) 7 or higher in all four French domains (speaking, listening, reading, writing) and you can earn up to 50 extra CRS points.
If your English CLB (Canadian Language Benchmarks) score is 4 or lower (or you didn’t take an English test), that's +25 points.
If your English CLB is 5 or higher, that’s +50 points.
These bonus points can significantly enhance your Express Entry ranking and your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
2. Category-Based Draws Favouring French Speakers
Canada is actively encouraging Francophone immigration outside Quebec. In 2025, Express Entry features category-based draws specifically for French proficiency. Recent highlights include:
March 21, 2025: CRS cut-off of 379 with 7,500 ITAs issued.
August 8, 2025: CRS threshold reached 481, with 2,500 ITAs issued in the French-language proficiency draw.
These draws typically have lower CRS cut-offs, offering a valuable chance for high-potential French-speaking candidates to secure an ITA.
3. Canada’s Commitment to Francophone Immigration
Under the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, Canada aims to increase the share of French-speaking newcomers admitted outside Quebec:
2025 target: 8.5%
2026: 9.5%
2027: 10%
This commitment includes category-based draws, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) streams tailored to Francophones, and additional CRS point incentives, making French a strategic asset.
How to Maximize Your Advantage
Take an IRCC-approved French test (such as TEF Canada or TCF Canada) and aim for NCLC 7 or higher across all abilities.
Don’t neglect English proficiency. A strong English score (CLB 5+) unlocks the full 50-point benefit.
Update your Express Entry profile with your French test results and watch for category-based draws as you’ll be flagged automatically if eligible.
Consider Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) that target French speakers.
Why It Matters
Francophone Express Entry draws offer a rare chance: they prioritize you for your language skills, not just your CRS score. Combine that with rising federal targets and bilingual-friendly job markets, French-speaking applicants are in a great position. By recognizing French as part of national multicultural and official-language priorities, Canada provides a tangible advantage for Francophone newcomers.
To learn more information or seek legal advice, please do not hesitate to reach out to our experienced law firm at rharding@hardingimmigrationlaw.com or book a consultation here.
