Canada’s Express Entry system saw one of its most significant draws of 2025 as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a French-language proficiency category-based round. The draw, held on November 28, 2025, recorded a CRS cut-off of just 408—the second-lowest CRS requirement of the entire year, marking a major opportunity for French-speaking skilled workers.
Highlights of the November 28, 2025 Express Entry Draw
- Category: French-language proficiency
- ITA issued: 6,000
- CRS cut-off: 408
- Tie-breaking rule: Profiles submitted before 12:28 p.m. UTC, May 26, 2025
- Rank: Second-lowest CRS cut-off among all 2025 draws
This draw continues a year-long trend of large-scale category-based selections under the Express Entry system, particularly for French-speaking candidates. IRCC has repeatedly emphasized its intention to increase Francophone immigration outside Quebec, and 2025 data strongly reflects this commitment.
2025 Express Entry — Notable Draws Overview
Below is a table summarizing some of the most significant draws in 2025:
| Date | Draw Type / Category | ITAs Issued | CRS Cut-off (Lowest) |
| Nov 28, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 6,000 | 408 |
| Nov 25, 2025 | Canadian Experience Class (CEC) | 1,000 | 531 |
| Nov 25, 2025 | Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) | 777 | 699 |
| Nov 14, 2025 | Healthcare & Social Services | 3,500 | 462 |
| Oct 29, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 6,000 | 416 |
| Oct 06, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 4,500 | 432 |
| Sep 04, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 4,500 | 446 |
| Mar 21, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 7,500 | 379 — lowest CRS of the year |
| Mar 06, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 4,500 | 410 |
| Feb 19, 2025 | French-language proficiency | 6,500 | 428 |
As of the November 28 draw, IRCC has issued a total of 94,476 ITAs in 2025.
Why the November 28 Draw Matters
Historically Low CRS Threshold for French-speaking Candidates
- A CRS of 408 is considerably lower than many rounds, especially compared to cuts for general draws or other categories.
- The only 2025 draw with a lower CRS was on March 21 (379), which indicates IRCC’s willingness under certain circumstances to invite large volumes at lower CRS thresholds for French-language proficiency.
Large Draw Size — Strong Demand for Francophone Immigrants
- 6,000 invitations in a single draw is among the highest in 2025. French-language draws continue to dominate in terms of volume of ITAs issued this year.
- According to IRCC’s 2025 draw statistics, French-speaking applicants have received the largest share of ITAs across all streams.
Reflects Canada’s Strategic Immigration Goals
- This draw reinforces Canada’s commitment to boost Francophone immigration outside of Québec, supporting bilingual communities and addressing labour market needs across provinces.
- The strategy seems to integrate category-based draws (language, occupation, needs) rather than relying solely on general draws — giving more opportunities for specific applicant groups.
What This Means for Express Entry Candidates
- If you speak French (or are ready to invest in French proficiency): This remains one of the most promising pathways. CRS thresholds for French-language draws have repeatedly dipped lower than general draws — meaning that with moderate CRS (sometimes ~400+), you may still receive an ITA.
- For other candidates (non-French / general CRS): Competition remains high, especially as many draws for other categories (CEC, PNP, Healthcare) maintain higher CRS thresholds. It may be helpful to consider alternate strategies — e.g. improving language skills, obtaining provincial nomination, or aiming for prioritized occupation draws.
- Timing & Preparation Matter: French-language draws appear frequently and produce large numbers of ITAs. Having a ready profile, updated language exam results (e.g. TEF Canada / TCF Canada), and valid documentation can significantly increase eligibility when the next draw occurs.
Outlook — What to Expect for Late 2025 & Early 2026
Given the continuing demand for Francophone immigrants, plus shifting labour-market needs and demographic pressures, we can anticipate:
- More large-scale French-language draws, possibly with CRS thresholds fluctuating depending on volume and IRCC’s targets.
- Continued use of category-based draws (e.g. healthcare, education, trades, social services) to meet sectoral labour demands.
- Opportunities for candidates with diverse profiles: not only high CRS but also language skills, occupation in demand, or provincial backing.
For candidates — especially from non-Francophone countries — placing effort into French language proficiency could pay off significantly.
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