Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a new Express Entry draw under the French-language proficiency category on March 18, 2026, inviting 4,000 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 393.
With this round, the total number of invitations issued this week has reached 8,362, while the overall total for March 2026 has climbed to 18,376 ITAs. This strong pace closely matches earlier projections made at the beginning of the month, which estimated around 20,000 invitations for March.
March 18, 2026 Draw Details
| Draw Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Category | French-Language Proficiency (2026 Version 2) |
| Date | March 18, 2026 |
| CRS Cutoff | 393 |
| Invitations Issued | 4,000 |
| Tie-Breaking Rule | December 29, 2025 at 12:47:31 UTC |
The tie-breaking rule means candidates with a CRS score of 393 needed to have submitted their Express Entry profile before December 29, 2025, at 12:47:31 UTC to receive an invitation.
What to Expect Next
Based on recent trends and IRCC’s draw patterns, the following developments are likely:
- March 19–20: A smaller, targeted draw may occur, possibly for newer categories such as Researchers or Transport Occupations introduced in February 2026.
- March 30–31: Larger draws are expected toward the end of the month, likely including a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) draw, a Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draw, and potentially another category-based round.
The March 5, 2026 draw for senior managers, which had a low CRS cutoff, has already demonstrated IRCC’s willingness to conduct targeted draws with smaller invitation numbers.
Express Entry Activity This Week
IRCC has already held three draws this week, highlighting an accelerated pace to meet 2026 immigration targets:
| Date | Category | CRS | ITAs |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 16 | PNP | 742 | 362 |
| March 17 | CEC | 507 | 4,000 |
| March 18 | French | 393 | 4,000 |
The March 17 CEC draw marked the lowest CRS cutoff for that category since 2024, while the March 16 PNP draw continued regular provincial nominations.
Why French Draws Have Lower CRS Scores
French-language proficiency draws consistently have the lowest CRS cutoffs across Express Entry categories.
This is largely because Canada prioritizes French-speaking immigrants to support Francophone communities outside Quebec. The federal government has set targets to increase French-speaking admissions to 8.5 percent, with a goal of reaching 10.5 percent by 2027.
As a result, French-language draws typically issue a high number of invitations at lower CRS thresholds compared to other categories.
Eligibility for French-Language Draws
To qualify, candidates must:
- Have a valid Express Entry profile under FSW, CEC, or FSTP
- Achieve CLB 7 or higher in all four French language skills
- Submit valid TEF Canada or TCF Canada test results
- Ensure test results are less than two years old
English is not mandatory, but candidates who are bilingual can earn additional CRS points.
Express Entry Trends in 2026
IRCC has maintained consistent invitation rounds across various categories in 2026, including PNP, CEC, healthcare, French-language, and targeted occupations such as senior managers and physicians.
The diversity in draw categories highlights Canada’s strategy to address labor shortages while balancing regional and linguistic priorities.
Next Steps for Invited Candidates
Candidates who received an ITA must submit their permanent residence application within 60 days.
Required documents include:
- French language test results
- Employment reference letters
- Educational credential assessments
- Police certificates
- Medical exam results
Applicants should ensure all details match their Express Entry profile to avoid delays or refusals.
Outlook for March 2026
March is shaping up to be one of the most active months for Express Entry this year, with 18,376 ITAs already issued and more draws expected before the end of the month.
With over 230,000 candidates in the Express Entry pool, category-based draws like this French-language round provide a significant opportunity for eligible applicants.
FAQs
Can I qualify with basic French skills?
No. You must demonstrate at least CLB 7 in all four language abilities.
Is English required for French draws?
No, but having both English and French can increase your CRS score.
How often are French draws held?
Typically once or twice a month, often with larger invitation numbers.
Will CRS scores remain below 400?
Cutoffs vary, but French draws have historically ranged between 379 and 446.
Can I apply from outside Canada?
Yes. French-language draws are open to both in-Canada and overseas candidates.
