Canadian Immigration Update: November 28, 2025
On November 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada conducted a draw inviting 6,000 candidates with strong French language skills through the Express Entry system. This draw signifies a significant move to enhance francophone immigration outside Quebec, maintaining a trend of large French-focused rounds in the latter part of 2025 while reducing the Comprehensive Ranking System cutoff to the second-lowest levels this year.
The Express Entry system has seen a surge in activity recently, particularly in the ITA category.
Draw Details:
- Category: French language proficiency (Version 1)
- Date and Time: November 28, 2025
- CRS score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 408
- Number of Invitations Issued: 6,000
- Rank Needed: 6,000 or above
- Tie-Breaking Rule: May 26, 2025, at 12:28:38 UTC
This draw reflects the government’s emphasis on favoring francophone candidates, aligning with Canada’s immigration strategy focusing on regional growth and labor market requirements. The prioritization of French-speaking applicants is driven by initiatives to strengthen francophone communities, meet immigration targets, address labor shortages, and enhance economic integration.
All French Language Proficiency Draws in 2025:
- #382 – November 28, 2025 – 6,000 invitations – CRS cutoff 408
- #376 – October 29, 2025 – 6,000 invitations – CRS cutoff 416
- #371 – October 6, 2025 – 4,500 invitations – CRS cutoff 432
- #365 – September 4, 2025 – 4,500 invitations – CRS cutoff 446
- #360 – August 8, 2025 – 2,500 invitations – CRS cutoff 481
- #341 – March 21, 2025 – 7,500 invitations – CRS cutoff 379
- #339 – March 6, 2025 – 4,500 invitations – CRS cutoff 410
- #337 – February 19, 2025 – 6,500 invitations – CRS cutoff 428
The Express Entry system acknowledges the vital role of French-speaking immigrants in Canada’s long-term demographic and economic strategies. By attracting skilled francophone individuals, Canada aims to revitalize francophone minority communities, fulfill language immigration targets, combat labor shortages, and enhance economic assimilation.
The future looks promising for French-speaking candidates pursuing Canadian permanent residency through the Express Entry system, with ongoing opportunities and a policy focus on bilingual immigration.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum CRS score needed to receive an Express Entry invitation?
There is no fixed CRS score for invitations; it varies with each draw based on candidate pool size, priorities, and annual targets. Different categories like French language proficiency have specific cutoffs, ensuring competitiveness.
How do category-based Express Entry draws work?
Category-based draws target candidates meeting Canada’s specific economic and demographic objectives. Candidates can receive invitations based on category requirements, even with lower CRS scores than general draws.
How long does Express Entry processing take in 2025?
Processing times vary based on program, country, security checks, and complexity. Complete applications typically take around six months, with potential delays due to verifications, assessments, or document requests.
How can I increase my CRS score for Express Entry?
Improving language scores, gaining Canadian work experience, more education, provincial nominations, and spouse qualifications can enhance your CRS score.
Can I apply for Express Entry from within Canada on a visitor visa, study permit, or work permit?
Yes, as long as you meet program criteria, you can apply for Express Entry from inside or outside Canada.
