French ITAs Surpass CEC: Another 5,000 ITAs Issued in 10th French-Language Express Entry Draw of 2026

Type of draw: Category-based – French-Language Proficiency 

Invitations issued: 5,000 

Minimum CRS score: 382 

Tie-breaking rule: March 1, 2026 at 18:34:05 UTC 

Prediction for next draw: Category-based draw on August 20, 2026. Check our dedicated page for more on when we’re expecting the next Express Entry draw 

What Does This Mean for French-Language Draws? 

French-language proficiency has become IRCC’s primary category-based selection priority in 2026. Today’s round was the tenth French-language draw of the year, bringing the total number of invitations issued to French-speaking candidates to 50,500. French-language draws have now accounted for 42 percent of all Express Entry invitations issued this year.

That total is well above Canada’s 2026 Immigration Levels Plan target of 30,267 French-speaking permanent resident admissions outside Quebec. However, this does not mean French-language draws are likely to end. Because permanent residence applications take months to process, many candidates invited in the second half of 2026 will likely become permanent residents in 2027.

Canada’s commitment to increasing Francophone immigration extends through 2029, with the 2027 target rising to 31,825 French-speaking permanent resident admissions outside Quebec. We therefore expect French-language draws to continue as a key part of Express Entry, although individual rounds could become smaller since IRCC has a full year to issue invitations toward next year’s admissions target. 

What Does This Mean for French-Speaking Candidates? 

If you received an ITA today, you have 60 days to prepare and submit a complete application for permanent residence.

If you did not receive an invitation, today’s CRS cut-off of 382 is the lowest for a French-language draw this year. It suggests that candidates with relatively modest CRS scores are still being invited through this category, and more French-language draws are expected before the end of 2026. If you’re eligible for the French-language category, it’s worth checking whether your current score is now within reach.

If your CRS score is still below the current range, there may be opportunities to improve it. Retaking a French language test—either the TEF Canada or TCF Canada—is often the fastest way to increase your score, as even a small improvement in one language ability can make a meaningful difference. If French is your first official language, improving your English test results may also boost your CRS score.

If you’ve already maximized your language points, consider other ways to strengthen your profile. A provincial nomination adds 600 CRS points and virtually guarantees an invitation in a future PNP draw. Alternatively, a Francophone Mobility work permit can help you gain Canadian work experience while continuing to improve your Express Entry profile.