Canada is placing a stronger emphasis on French-speaking immigrants through its Express Entry category-based selection. This aims to attract skilled professionals who can contribute to Francophone communities outside Quebec, helping to support Canada’s bilingual identity while also filling labor shortages in key industries. If you have French proficiency, this could be your best opportunity to obtain permanent residency in Canada.
What is the French-Language Proficiency Category in Express Entry?
The French-Language Proficiency Category is part of Canada’s category-based selection for Express Entry. Instead of just focusing on high CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) scores, Canada is now inviting candidates who meet specific economic or linguistic needs, and one of those key priorities is French-speaking immigrants.
By selecting more French-proficient candidates, the government hopes to strengthen Francophone communities outside Quebec and promote bilingualism across the country.
Who is Eligible for the French Category?
To qualify under this category, you must:
- Have strong French skills, specifically a minimum score of NCLC 7 (Niveaux de compétence linguistique canadiens) in all four skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking).
- Be eligible for Express Entry, meaning you meet the requirements of at least one of the three main immigration programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Bonus: If you are bilingual and also proficient in English, you can earn additional CRS points, increasing your chances of receiving an invitation.
How Can You Prove Your French Proficiency?
You need to take an officially recognized French language test approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The two accepted tests are:
- TEF Canada (Test d’évaluation de français)
- TCF Canada (Test de connaissance du français)
These tests assess proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
Where to take the test?
These exams are available at approved language centers worldwide. It is recommended to book your test early, as spots fill up quickly.
If you are already in Canada, many testing centers offer TEF and TCF in major cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
Why is Canada Prioritizing French Speakers?
Canada has two official languages: English and French. While Quebec has a large French-speaking population, the government aims to increase Francophone immigration in other provinces as well.
There are several key reasons for this policy: First, the government wants to strengthen Francophone populations in provinces such as Ontario, Manitoba, and New Brunswick, where these communities exist but need more growth. Second, French-speaking immigrants can contribute to industries experiencing labor shortages, such as healthcare, education, and technology. Lastly, to preserve bilingualism. Canada values its French heritage and seeks to ensure that French remains a vital part of its national identity.
What Were the Previous French-Speaking Express Entry Draws Like?
Canada has been actively holding French-language category draws since 2023. These draws invite candidates who meet the French language requirements, even if their CRS score is lower than general Express Entry draws.
To stay updated on upcoming draws and results, candidates can check the official IRCC website: Click here.
How Can You Improve Your Chances of Getting an Invitation?
- Take a French test and aim for NCLC 7 or higher.
- Improve your CRS score by boosting your English proficiency, gaining work experience, obtaining higher education, or securing a job offer in Canada.
- Stay updated on Express Entry category-based draws and ensure your profile remains active in the system.
Is This A Good Opportunity to Immigrate to Canada?
If you are a French-speaking professional, skilled worker, or someone with strong bilingual skills, this could be your best chance to immigrate to Canada. With category-based selection now in place, French speakers have a much higher likelihood of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency.
If you are thinking about applying, make sure your Express Entry profile is up to date and that you have completed a recognized French language test.
For expert legal guidance on Express Entry and immigration pathways, JCA Law is here to help. Contact us today for professional assistance.
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Sources:
Express Entry – Category-Based Selection (French-Language Proficiency)