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Express Entry Program
French Language Express Entry
French speakers enjoy significant advantages in Canadian immigration. With bonus CRS points and dedicated category-based draws, speaking French can accelerate your path to permanent residence.
Processing
6 months or less
Recent Cutoff
410
Last Draw
700 ITAs
Max CRS
1,200 pts
Program Overview
About French Language Express Entry
Canada actively promotes francophone immigration outside Quebec to support French-speaking communities across the country. French speakers receive bonus CRS points and can be selected in dedicated category-based draws.
If you have strong French language skills (CLB 7+), you can receive up to 50 additional CRS points. Combined with lower cutoffs in French-language draws, this makes French proficiency one of the most valuable attributes for Express Entry candidates.
French-language draws target candidates with strong French ability, regardless of occupation. This is separate from the FSW French-Speaking Skilled Worker stream offered by Ontario and other provinces.
Key Benefits
Up to 50 bonus CRS points
Lower cutoffs in French draws
High demand for French speakers
Francophone communities nationwide
Provincial programs for francophones
Fast processing (6 months)
Free CRS Assessment
Find out your CRS score and chances of receiving an invitation for French EE. Our RCIC-licensed consultants will review your profile.
Book ConsultationCalculate CRS ScoreRCIC License: R515110
Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
Meet these requirements to qualify for French Language Express Entry.
French Language Proficiency
Strong French ability as demonstrated by TEF Canada or TCF Canada tests. CLB 7+ in all abilities is typically required for category draws.
Express Entry Program
Must be eligible under FSW, CEC, or FST programs. French draws target all eligible candidates with French proficiency.
First Official Language
Candidates who declare French as their first official language and have English as second receive additional CRS points.
Settlement Outside Quebec
Intent to settle outside Quebec. Quebec has its own immigration system for French speakers.
CRS Scoring
Comprehensive Ranking System
Your CRS score determines your ranking in the Express Entry pool.
French CLB 7+ (all abilities)
+25 pointsWith English CLB 4 or lower, receive 25 bonus CRS points.
French CLB 7+ with English CLB 5+
+50 pointsBilingual candidates receive 50 bonus CRS points.
French as First Language
136 points (core)Maximum first language points for CLB 10+ in all abilities.
English as Second Language
24 pointsAdditional points for English proficiency when French is primary.
Draw History
Recent Express Entry Draws
Track recent CRS cutoffs to understand your chances.
January 2026French Proficiency
410
CRS Cutoff
700 invitations
December 2025French Proficiency
400
CRS Cutoff
800 invitations
November 2025French Proficiency
420
CRS Cutoff
600 invitations
How to Apply
Application Process
Step-by-step guide to applying for French Language Express Entry.
1
Take French Test
Complete TEF Canada or TCF Canada. Aim for CLB 9+ in all abilities for maximum points.
2
Consider English Test
If you speak English, take IELTS or CELPIP. Bilingual candidates (French CLB 7+ and English CLB 5+) get 50 bonus points.
3
Create Profile
Submit Express Entry profile. Select French as first official language if stronger than English.
4
Monitor French Draws
French-language draws have significantly lower cutoffs. Monitor draw announcements.
5
Receive ITA
When invited, submit PR application within 60 days.
6
Settlement Plan
Consider francophone communities outside Quebec, such as those in Ontario, New Brunswick, or Manitoba.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about French Language Express Entry
How do I prove French proficiency?
You must take an approved test: TEF Canada or TCF Canada. The test measures reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Results are converted to CLB levels.
Can I settle in Quebec through Express Entry?
No, Express Entry is for settlement outside Quebec. Quebec has its own immigration system (PEQ and QSWP). French proficiency is highly valued there as well.
Do I need to speak English too?
Not required, but recommended. Bilingual candidates (French CLB 7+ and English CLB 5+) receive 50 bonus CRS points versus 25 for French only.
Where can French speakers settle?
Francophone communities exist across Canada, particularly in Ontario, New Brunswick, Manitoba, and other provinces. These communities welcome French-speaking immigrants.
What is the cutoff for French draws?
French-language draws have had cutoffs ranging from 380 to 450, significantly lower than general draws. The exact cutoff varies by draw.
Ready to Apply for French EE?
Book a consultation with our RCIC-licensed consultants. We'll assess your profile and create a strategy to maximize your CRS score.