On February 6, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held its largest-ever category-based Express Entry draw targeting French-speaking candidates. A total of 8,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to candidates demonstrating strong French language proficiency, with a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score requirement of 400. This French express entry draw in 2026 underscores Canada’s commitment to promoting Francophone immigration outside Quebec and addressing labor shortages in various sectors.
Key Details of the February 6, 2026 Draw
- Draw Date: February 6, 2026
- Category: French-Language Proficiency
- Number of ITAs Issued: 8,500
- Minimum CRS Score: 400
- Tie-Breaking Rule: Profiles submitted before February 3, 2026, at 11:11:44 UTC
This draw is part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to meet its Francophone immigration targets and support the vitality of French-speaking communities across the country.
Historical Overview of French-Speaking Express Entry Draws
To provide context, here’s a comparison of recent French-speaking Express Entry draws:
| Draw Date | ITAs Issued | Minimum CRS Score |
|---|
| Feb 6, 2026 | 8,500 | 400 |
| Dec 17, 2025 | 6,000 | 399 |
| Nov 28, 2025 | 6,000 | 408 |
| Oct 29, 2025 | 6,000 | 416 |
| Oct 6, 2025 | 4,500 | 432 |
| Sep 4, 2025 | 4,500 | 446 |
| Aug 8, 2025 | 2,500 | 481 |
| Mar 21, 2025 | 7,500 | 379 |
| Mar 6, 2025 | 4,500 | 410 |
| Feb 19, 2025 | 6,500 | 428 |
Data sourced from IRCC’s official rounds of invitations.
This table illustrates the fluctuating nature of CRS score requirements and the number of ITAs issued in French-speaking draws, reflecting Canada’s dynamic approach to meeting its immigration objectives. This trend in shows a major shift in Canada’s immigration strategy. Earlier in 2025, French draws had higher CRS cut-offs, sometimes above 480, and lower invitation numbers. However, by late 2025 and early 2026, the number of invitations increased significantly while CRS score requirements dropped.
The February 6, 2026 draw issuing 8,500 invitations with a CRS score of 400 clearly shows Canada is prioritizing French-speaking immigration more aggressively. Looking at this draw it looks like there are going to be big upcoming French speaking draws in Feb or March indicating how Canada is actively trying to increase Francophone population outside Quebec and address labour shortages through language-based immigration selection.
This trend also shows that French language ability is becoming one of the strongest competitive advantages in Express Entry.
Canada French Express Entry Draw in 2026 – Key Highlights
The latest French category-based Express Entry draw included:
- Large number of Invitations to Apply issued
- Lower CRS score compared to general draws
- Priority given to candidates with strong French test scores
- Focus on long-term economic immigration needs
Category-based draws are becoming more common as Canada shifts toward targeted immigration selection.
Why Canada Is Increasing French-Speaking Immigration
Canada is actively increasing French-speaking immigration outside Quebec to support economic growth and community development.
The federal government has set targets to increase Francophone immigration levels each year. Provinces like New Brunswick, Ontario, and Manitoba are especially encouraging French-speaking skilled workers.
For official details about category-based selection, you can visit here :
Why French Language Is Becoming One of the Strongest PR Advantages
French is now one of the biggest immigration advantages in Canada.
You can read our full guide here:
👉 Why learning French can help you get Canada PR faster
Candidates with strong French scores can:
- Qualify for category-based Express Entry draws
- Receive additional CRS points
- Qualify for special PNP streams
- Improve chances even with lower CRS
How French Helps Even If CRS Score Is Lower
The latest French Express Entry draw of Feb 6 2026 proves that language-based draws are now separate from general draws. Canadian Govt had already added additional 5000 French speaking PR Spaces.
This means candidates with strong French may receive invitations even if CRS score is lower than general draw cutoffs.
You can also read:
👉 Latest PNP draws Canada update
Provinces That Benefit Most From French-Speaking Immigration
French-speaking candidates are especially valuable in:
- New Brunswick
- Ontario
- Manitoba
- Nova Scotia
- Quebec
Why International Students Should Consider Learning French
Students who learn French can:
- Qualify for French category Express Entry draws
- Qualify for provincial French streams
- Get additional CRS points
- Improve long-term PR chances
Jobs That Benefit Most From French Category Draws
French draws are not limited to one sector. Priority is often given to:
- Healthcare
- Technology
- Education
- Skilled Trades
- Business and Finance
Canada is using language ability as an economic selection tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many invitations were issued in the latest French Express Entry draw?
Canada issued 8,500 invitations in the latest French category Express Entry draw, making it one of the largest French-specific draws conducted by IRCC.
What was the CRS score in the latest French Express Entry draw?
The minimum CRS score required in the latest French Express Entry draw was 400, which is lower than many general Express Entry draws.
Why is Canada increasing French-speaking immigration?
Canada is increasing French-speaking immigration to support Francophone communities outside Quebec and to address labour shortages across multiple provinces.
Can French language skills help candidates with lower CRS scores?
Yes. French category-based draws allow candidates with strong French scores to receive invitations even if their CRS score is lower than general draws.
Will Canada continue French Express Entry draws in 2026?
Based on recent trends and immigration targets, Canada is expected to continue French category-based draws throughout 2026.
Future Outlook – More French Draws Expected
Immigration experts expect Canada to continue French category draws throughout 2026 and beyond due to:
- Labour shortages
- Francophone immigration targets
- Regional immigration needs
- Long-term demographic strategy
Candidates who start learning French now may benefit in upcoming draws.
Final Thoughts
The Canada’s French Express Entry draw in 2026 confirms French language ability is now one of the strongest tools for Canadian immigration success.
Candidates planning Canada PR should strongly consider improving French language scores to increase their chances in category-based selection draws.