IRCC Continues to Prioritize French-Speaking Immigrants Through Express Entry
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted another major Express Entry draw, issuing 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to candidates with strong French-language proficiency.
The draw was held on May 28, 2026, and targeted candidates who demonstrated French-language skills. To receive an invitation, applicants were required to have a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 409 and must have submitted their Express Entry profile before April 29, 2026, at 10:20 p.m. UTC.
This latest selection highlights Canada’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Francophone communities outside Quebec and attracting bilingual talent to support the country’s economic and demographic goals.
Key Highlights of the May 28, 2026 Draw
- Draw Type: French-Language Proficiency
- Draw Date: May 28, 2026
- Invitations Issued: 4,500
- Minimum CRS Score: 409
- Tie-Breaking Rule: April 29, 2026, at 10:20 p.m. UTC
Canada Continues to Support French-Speaking Immigration
French-language proficiency remains one of the most valuable factors in Canada’s immigration system. Candidates who can communicate effectively in French often receive additional points and benefit from category-based Express Entry draws specifically designed for Francophone applicants.
The latest draw reflects the federal government’s strategy to increase French-speaking immigration across Canada while addressing labour shortages in key sectors.
Express Entry Draw Trends in 2026
Canada has conducted 30 Express Entry draws so far in 2026, focusing heavily on candidates already contributing to the Canadian workforce, provincial nominees, and French-speaking applicants.
The most frequently targeted categories this year include:
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)––
- French-Language Proficiency
Number of Draws by Category in 2026
| Draw Type | Number of Draws |
| Provincial Nominee Program | 11 |
| Canadian Experience Class | 9 |
| French-Language Proficiency | 6 |
| Physicians with Canadian Work Experience | 1 |
| Healthcare and Social Services | 1 |
| Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience | 1 |
| Trades | 1 |
More Than 79,000 Invitations Issued in 2026
Canada has already invited 79,841 immigration candidates through Express Entry in 2026.
Invitations Issued by Category
| Draw Type | ITAs Issued |
| Canadian Experience Class | 37,250 |
| French-Language Proficiency | 30,500 |
| Provincial Nominee Program | 4,450 |
| Healthcare and Social Services | 4,000 |
| Trades | 3,000 |
| Physicians with Canadian Work Experience | 391 |
| Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience | 250 |
The high number of invitations issued to French-speaking candidates demonstrates the importance of bilingual skills within Canada’s immigration framework.
Why French Language Skills Can Improve Your Immigration Chances
Applicants with strong French-language abilities can benefit from:
- Additional CRS points under Express Entry
- Access to category-based French-language draws
- Enhanced opportunities for permanent residence
- Greater employment prospects across Canada
- Support for settlement in Francophone communities
For many candidates, improving French-language test scores can significantly increase their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply for Canadian permanent residence.
What This Means for Future Express Entry Applicants
The latest draw shows that Canada remains committed to welcoming skilled French-speaking immigrants. With a CRS cut-off score of 409, French-language proficiency continues to offer a competitive advantage compared to many other Express Entry categories.
Candidates interested in immigrating to Canada should consider strengthening their French-language skills and ensuring their Express Entry profiles remain updated to maximize their chances of selection.
Final Thoughts
The May 28, 2026, French-language Express Entry draw demonstrates Canada’s continued focus on attracting bilingual talent and supporting Francophone communities nationwide. With 4,500 invitations issued and more category-based draws expected throughout the year, French-speaking candidates remain well-positioned to achieve their Canadian immigration goals.
If you are planning to apply for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry, staying informed about draw trends and improving your language scores can significantly enhance your chances of success.
