On November 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a major Express Entry draw aimed at candidates with strong French language skills. A total of 6,000 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence were issued, marking another significant milestone in Canada’s ongoing push to strengthen francophone immigration outside Quebec.
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This draw continues the trend of large-scale French-language draws in the latter half of 2025, while also reducing the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score cutoff to its second-lowest level for the year.
The November 28 draw coincides with an active period in the Express Entry system, which has seen a notably high number of ITAs across various categories and programs, reflecting a strategic focus on francophone immigration.
Key Details of the November 28, 2025 Express Entry Draw:
- Category: French Language Proficiency (Version 1)
- Date and Time: November 28, 2025
- CRS Cutoff for the Lowest-Ranked Candidate: 408
- Number of ITAs Issued: 6,000
- Rank Needed to Receive an Invitation: 6,000 or above
- Tie-breaking Rule: May 26, 2025, at 12:28:38 UTC
This large-scale invitation round highlights the government’s growing emphasis on attracting francophone candidates, aligning with Canada’s broader immigration strategy, which is focused on fostering population growth and meeting regional labour market needs.
Overview of French Language Proficiency Draws in 2025:
| Date | Invitations Issued | CRS Cutoff Score |
|---|---|---|
| November 28, 2025 | 6,000 | 408 |
| October 29, 2025 | 6,000 | 416 |
| October 6, 2025 | 4,500 | 432 |
| September 4, 2025 | 4,500 | 446 |
| August 8, 2025 | 2,500 | 481 |
| March 21, 2025 | 7,500 | 379 |
| March 6, 2025 | 4,500 | 410 |
| February 19, 2025 | 6,500 | 428 |
Why Are French-Speaking Candidates a Priority?
French-speaking immigrants are playing an increasingly vital role in Canada’s demographic and economic strategy. The government has outlined several key objectives that explain the large number of ITAs for francophone candidates:
- Strengthening Francophone Minority Communities: Many communities outside of Quebec have seen a decline in their French-speaking populations. Category-based draws help reverse this trend by attracting more francophone immigrants to areas in need of population growth.
- Meeting Canada’s French-Language Immigration Targets: Canada has committed to increasing the number of francophone immigrants year over year. Large draws like the one on November 28 help meet these federal targets.
- Addressing Labour Shortages: Several provinces are facing shortages in key sectors such as public service, healthcare, education, and community services—areas where bilingualism is a major asset.
- Boosting Economic Integration: French-speaking newcomers often integrate into the Canadian workforce quickly due to their language proficiency and international experience, contributing to the overall economic success of the country.
With the new 2026–2028 immigration plan placing heavy emphasis on skills-based and regional development pathways, francophone candidates will continue to benefit from targeted opportunities in the coming years.
What Does This Mean for Applicants?
The November 28 Express Entry draw signals an important shift in Canada’s immigration landscape, with 6,000 invitations being issued at a CRS cutoff score of 408. As 2025 comes to a close, French-speaking candidates now have one of the most predictable pathways to obtaining Canadian permanent residency. As demand for bilingual workers remains strong and the government focuses on regional growth, future draws will offer more opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum CRS score needed to receive an Express Entry invitation?
The CRS cutoff score varies with each draw, based on factors like the number of candidates in the pool, category-based priorities, and annual immigration targets. In general, draws for specific categories, like French language proficiency, can have cutoffs in the 400–470 range, while general draws (such as those for Canadian Experience Class candidates) can have cutoffs of 530 or higher.
How do category-based Express Entry draws work?
Category-based draws target candidates who meet specific criteria, such as French language proficiency, healthcare experience, or skilled trades. If you meet the requirements for a particular category and your CRS score is above the cutoff, you may receive an ITA even if your CRS score is lower than the cutoff for general draws.
How long does Express Entry processing take in 2025?
The processing time for Express Entry applications generally takes around six months from the time IRCC confirms they have received all necessary documents. However, processing times can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the application, the applicant’s country of residence, and security checks.
How can I increase my CRS score for Express Entry?
There are several ways to boost your CRS score, such as improving your language test results, gaining more Canadian work experience, completing additional education, or obtaining a provincial nomination (which adds 600 points). You can also gain points through your spouse’s qualifications or retake language tests to achieve higher band scores.
Can I apply for Express Entry if I am in Canada on a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit?
Yes, you can apply for Express Entry from inside or outside Canada, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements for one of the programs. Being in Canada on a visitor visa doesn’t give you extra points, but you can gain points if you are on a study or work permit, as this may provide additional points for Canadian work experience or education.
